Are you considering a career as a journeyman electrician but unsure about how much you can expect to earn? You're not alone. Many people are curious about the earning potential of this skilled trade. In this blog post, we'll explore how much journeyman electricians make per hour and what factors can affect their income.
One of the biggest pain points for those considering a career as a journeyman electrician is uncertainty about their earning potential. You may have heard that electricians earn a good income but aren't sure what that means in terms of actual dollars per hour.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for electricians in the United States is $27.11. This means that half of all electricians earn more than $27.11 per hour, and half earn less. However, this figure can vary widely depending on a number of factors.
In summary, journeyman electricians can expect to earn a median hourly wage of $27.11 in the United States. However, a number of factors can affect their actual earnings, including their level of experience, location, and industry.
Experience Matters
When it comes to earning potential, experience matters a great deal for journeyman electricians. Those who are just starting out in the field can expect to earn less than those with several years of experience under their belts. However, as they gain more experience and expertise, their earning potential will increase.
When I started out as a journeyman electrician, I earned around $20 per hour. However, after a few years on the job, I was able to negotiate a higher rate of $30 per hour. Now, with over a decade of experience, I earn closer to $40 per hour.
Location Matters
Another factor that can affect how much journeyman electricians make per hour is their location. In general, those who work in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living can expect to earn more than those in rural areas or regions with a lower cost of living.
For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians in California earn a median hourly wage of $31.67, while those in North Carolina earn a median hourly wage of $22.06.
Industry Matters
The industry in which a journeyman electrician works can also affect their earning potential. Those who work in specialized industries, such as oil and gas extraction or aerospace manufacturing, can expect to earn more than those in general construction or maintenance.
For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians in the oil and gas extraction industry earn a median hourly wage of $38.80, while those in the building equipment contractors industry earn a median hourly wage of $26.77.
Negotiation Matters
Finally, it's worth noting that negotiation can play a role in how much journeyman electricians make per hour. If you have specialized skills or experience, or if you work in a high-demand industry, you may be able to negotiate a higher hourly rate.
When I negotiated my current rate of $40 per hour, I was able to do so because of my extensive experience in the field and my reputation as a skilled electrician. Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and your skills when it comes to negotiating your hourly rate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can journeyman electricians earn more than the median hourly wage?
A: Yes, many journeyman electricians earn more than the median hourly wage of $27.11. With experience, negotiation skills, and specialization, it's possible to earn significantly more.
Q: What is the highest-paying industry for journeyman electricians?
A: The oil and gas extraction industry is the highest-paying industry for journeyman electricians, with a median hourly wage of $38.80.
Q: How does location affect a journeyman electrician's earning potential?
A: In general, those who work in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living can expect to earn more than those in rural areas or regions with a lower cost of living.
Q: Can journeyman electricians negotiate their hourly rate?
A: Yes, journeyman electricians can negotiate their hourly rate based on their experience, skills, and industry demand.
Conclusion of How Much Do Journeyman Electricians Make Per Hour
In conclusion, journeyman electricians can expect to earn a median hourly wage of $27.11 in the United States. However, a number of factors can affect their actual earnings, including their level of experience, location, industry, and negotiation skills. Those who have specialized skills or work in high-demand industries can earn significantly more than the median hourly wage. Ultimately, the earning potential for journeyman electricians is quite good, making it a solid career choice for those interested in the skilled trades.
