Are you considering a career as a journeyman electrician? One of the most common questions people have when considering this career path is how much they can expect to make. In this post, we'll explore the salary potential for journeyman electricians and what factors can impact their earnings.
Being a journeyman electrician can be a physically and mentally demanding job. From working in tight spaces to dealing with high voltage electricity, there are many challenges that come with the job. However, for those who are willing to put in the work, the rewards can be significant.
So, how much do you make as a journeyman electrician? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for electricians in 2020 was $56,900. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, such as your level of experience, geographic location, and the industry you work in.
In addition to your base salary, journeyman electricians may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. These benefits can add significant value to your overall compensation package.
My Experience
As a journeyman electrician with 10 years of experience, I can attest to the fact that my salary has increased steadily over the years. When I first started out, I was making around $30,000 per year. However, as I gained more experience and expertise, my salary grew to over $70,000 per year.
Of course, this is just my personal experience and your earnings may vary depending on your own circumstances. However, I can say that being a journeyman electrician has been a rewarding and financially stable career choice for me.
Geographic Location
One of the biggest factors that can impact your salary as a journeyman electrician is your geographic location. In general, electricians in larger cities tend to earn more than those in smaller towns or rural areas.
For example, according to the BLS, the top paying states for electricians in 2020 were Alaska, Illinois, Hawaii, New York, and New Jersey. If you live in one of these states, you may be able to command a higher salary than if you live in a state with a lower average salary for electricians.
Industry
The industry you work in can also impact your salary as a journeyman electrician. For example, electricians who work in the construction industry may earn more than those who work in the manufacturing industry.
According to the BLS, the top paying industries for electricians in 2020 were electric power generation, transmission, and distribution; natural gas distribution; and motor vehicle manufacturing. If you have expertise in one of these industries, you may be able to earn a higher salary than if you work in a different industry.
Experience
Your level of experience as a journeyman electrician can also impact your salary. Generally speaking, the more experience you have, the higher your earning potential.
For example, according to the BLS, electricians with less than one year of experience earned a median salary of $36,520 in 2020, while those with 10 or more years of experience earned a median salary of $69,670.
Conclusion
So, how much do you make as a journeyman electrician? The answer is that it depends on a number of factors, including your experience, geographic location, and the industry you work in. However, with hard work and dedication, journeyman electricians can earn a stable and rewarding salary that allows them to support themselves and their families.
Question and Answer
Q: Is being a journeyman electrician a good career choice?
A: Yes, being a journeyman electrician can be a great career choice for those who enjoy working with their hands, solving problems, and working in a dynamic environment.
Q: How long does it take to become a journeyman electrician?
A: It typically takes around four years to complete an apprenticeship and become a journeyman electrician.
Q: Can journeyman electricians work independently?
A: Yes, journeyman electricians are licensed to work independently and can take on jobs without the supervision of a master electrician.
Q: What are some of the most important skills for journeyman electricians?
A: Some important skills for journeyman electricians include problem-solving, critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.
