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Electrician

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AVG. SALARY

$67,410

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EDUCATION

Post-secondary training +

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JOB OUTLOOK

Increasing

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Architecture and Construction cluster Construction pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Post-secondary training, plus on-the-job training

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to become an electrician. Most electricians learn through an apprenticeship, but some start out by attending a technical school. Most states require electricians to pass a test and be licensed.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Electrical work is a skilled trade, so a high school education is highly recommended. Students can learn valuable information by taking shop or trade classes. If a job shadowing program is offered, sign up to follow an electrician for a day to see if you like the work.

Look into pre-apprenticeship programs. A pre-apprenticeship program can help high school students transition to an actual apprenticeship program.

Apprenticeships can come through a community college, trade school or an electrician's association. They last four to five years and include several periods of classroom training. Some apprenticeship programs allow a person to earn an associate's degree at the same time. Apprentices are paid a portion of what a journeyman or certified electrician is paid.

Research electricians and companies before deciding where you'd like to serve your apprenticeship.

People interested in owning their own electrical service company one day can benefit greatly by taking classes in small business management.

Extra Requirements

Electricians may obtain additional certifications, which demonstrate competency in areas such as solar photovoltaic, electrical generating, or lighting systems.

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

Support