The highest-paying electrical job is an Electrical Engineer. They make a median salary of $84,280 per year.
Wind turbine technician
The demand for wind turbine technicians is expected to grow by 96 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics-much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for a wind turbine technician was $52,260 in 2012.
While most entry-level positions only require a high school diploma, some employers prefer candidates who have completed training programs at technical schools or community colleges. Many states also have certification programs for wind turbine technicians.
Wind turbine technicians typically work full time and may occasionally work overtime or overnight shifts when repairs or maintenance are needed outside of regular business hours. The job can be physically demanding-climbing ladders or working at heights-and sometimes dangerous, so safety precautions must always be followed.
Electrical technician
, much faster than the average for all occupations.
An electrical technician is a tradesman who specializes in the wiring and maintenance of electrical systems. Electricians are also trained to install and maintain a variety of electrical equipment, including switches, motors, generators, breakers, and transformers.
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Most electricians learn their trade through an apprenticeship program that lasts four years. During their apprenticeship, electricians receive on-the-job training as well as classroom instruction in such subjects as mathematics, blueprint reading, electronics, and safety. Journeyman electricians can work unsupervised but must periodically renew their license by taking additional exams. Master electricians have the most experience and training and can supervise other electricians as well as perform all types of electrical work.
In some states, journeyman or master licenses are not required for working under the supervision of a licensed contractor. However, most states require at least a journeyman license for anyone performing any type of electrical work in commercial or industrial settings.
The median annual wage for an electrical technician was $56,180 in May 2019 with the top 10 percent earning more than $93,650 per year while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $33,490 per year.* The median hourly wage was $26.97.* The top earners worked in industries such as oil and gas extraction ($78,410), management of companies ($74 ,030), architectural engineering ($73 ,160), computer systems design ($72 ,560), and securities brokerage ($71 ,470). The lowest earners worked mostly in residential care facilities ($34 ,530) followed by general merchandise stores ($36 ,530).
Job outlook for an Electrical Technician: Employment of electricians is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Maintenance electrician
Maintenance electricians must have a strong understanding of electrical theory and principles, as well as experience working with electrical equipment. They must be able to troubleshoot problems and identify potential hazards. They should also have good communication skills, as they will often need to work with other tradespeople and facility staff.
Most maintenance electricians have completed an apprenticeship program or have received training through a trade school or community college. Many states require electricians to be licensed, although the requirements vary by state.
Electrical foreman
The duties of an electrical foreman include planning and scheduling the work, assigning tasks to workers, inspecting the work, and troubleshooting problems. He or she must be able to read blueprints and other technical drawings, and must be familiar with the National Electrical Code. An electrical foreman also must be able to use tools and equipment safely.
Most electrical foremen work full time, although some may work overtime during peak periods. They typically work indoors in offices or on construction sites. Some travel may be required to visit multiple job sites.
The median annual salary for an electrical foreman was $77,010 in May 2019, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The top 10 percent earned more than $116,870, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $47,950
Solar installer
Solar installers are responsible for installing photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures. They must carefully follow instructions from engineers and project managers, and adhere to safety standards. Solar installers typically have experience in the construction trades, such as carpentry or roofing.
The average salary for a solar installer is $26 per hour, or $54,000 per year. Solar installers typically receive health insurance and other benefits from their employers. Some solar companies offer tuition reimbursement for employees who want to further their education in the field.
Industrial electrician
Industrial electricians must be able to read and understand blueprints and schematics. They use a variety of hand tools, power tools, and testing equipment to install or repair electrical wiring, fixtures, and control systems. Industrial electricians also troubleshoot problems with electrical equipment or systems.
Most industrial electricians have completed an apprenticeship program that lasts four years. During their apprenticeship, they receive on-the-job training as well as classroom instruction in topics such as safety procedures, math, blueprint reading, and first aid. Many states require industrial electricians to be licensed.
Substation technician. National average salary: $67,807 per year
A substation technician is responsible for the maintenance, testing, and repair of electrical equipment in a substation. They work with high-voltage equipment and must be able to safely handle energized circuits.
Substation technicians must have a strong understanding of electricity and be able to troubleshoot electrical problems. They also need to be familiar with the layout of the substation and the equipment that is used in it.
Most substation technicians have an associate’s degree in electricity or a related field. Some employers may require certification from a professional organization such as the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Substation technicians typically work full time, but they may be on call 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies. They may work outdoors in all weather conditions, so they need to be physically fit and able to lift heavy objects.
Automation technician. National average salary: $80,092 per year
An automation technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of automated machinery and equipment in factories or industrial facilities. They work with a variety of machines, including robots, conveyor belts, and computer-controlled production lines.
Automation technicians must have a strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical principles. They use this knowledge to troubleshoot problems with automated equipment and make repairs as necessary. In some cases, they may also be responsible for programming new or updated software for automated machinery.
Most automation technicians have at least an associate’s degree in industrial technology or a related field. Many also possess certification from professional organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).