What does an electrician do? Duties, pay, training and outlook
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical power, communications, lighting and control systems in homes, businesses and factories. Most learn through a 4 or 5 year apprenticeship, and most states require a license. BLS reports a median pay of $63,190 per year (May 2025).
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| SOC code | 47-2111 (Electricians) |
| O*NET code | 47-2111.00 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Licensing | Most states require a license |
| Median annual wage | $63,190 per year (May 2025) |
| Projected growth | 9 percent, 2025 to 2035 |
| Number of jobs | 821,000 (2025) |
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, accessed 31 October 2026.
What does an electrician do?
Electricians read blueprints and technical diagrams, install and maintain wiring, control and lighting systems, and inspect components such as transformers and circuit breakers. They diagnose electrical problems with testing devices, repair or replace wiring, equipment and fixtures, and follow state and local codes based on the National Electrical Code. Experienced electricians also direct and train workers who install or repair wiring. Line workers who install distribution and transmission lines are covered in a separate BLS profile.
Work environment
BLS counts about 821,000 jobs in 2025. Electrical contractors and other wiring installation contractors employ the largest share (66 percent), and 7 percent are self-employed. Work takes place indoors and outdoors and often involves travel between sites. Almost all electricians work full time, schedules can include evenings and weekends, and overtime is common. The main injury risks are electrical shock, falls and burns, so protective gear is standard.
Education, training and licensing
A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some people attend a technical school first, and graduates may receive credit toward an apprenticeship. BLS says most electricians learn through a 4 or 5 year apprenticeship that combines about 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year with technical instruction. Military or construction experience may shorten the path.
BLS says most states require electricians to be licensed. Requirements vary by state, and continuing education is often needed to renew, so check your state licensing board. Optional certifications exist, for example in solar photovoltaic or lighting systems, and journey workers can advance to master electrician, supervision or project management.
Skills that matter
BLS lists color vision, critical thinking, customer-service skills, physical stamina and strength, and troubleshooting as important qualities. O*NET ranks active listening, critical thinking, speaking, active learning and monitoring among the top skills for electricians, with troubleshooting, repairing and installation among the transferable skills.
How much does an electrician make?
BLS reports a median annual wage of $63,190 (May 2025) for electricians. BLS also prints that the lowest 10 percent earned less than $42,640 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $108,510 (May 2025). BLS notes that apprentices earn less than fully trained electricians and that their pay rises as their skills grow.
See the OOH pay tab and the OEWS data for your state. Our guide to researching pay explains how to read the figures.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment to grow 9 percent from 2025 to 2035, much faster than the 3 percent average for all occupations, with about 72,700 openings per year on average. Most openings come from replacing workers who change occupations or leave the workforce, for example through retirement.
How to get hired
- Look for apprenticeship programs run by unions, contractors or trade associations, and confirm your state's licensing steps.
- Put your hours, certifications and the kinds of systems you have worked on in your resume.
- With no formal experience, use the no-experience resume guide to show reliability and relevant coursework.
- Ask contractors directly and use networking; then follow the find a job fast steps.
When you are ready, search jobs on LiveRec.
Related occupations
Electrical power-line installers and repairers, electrical and electronics installers and repairers, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers, solar photovoltaic installers, and elevator and escalator installers and repairers.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become an electrician? BLS says most electricians learn through a 4 or 5 year apprenticeship with about 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training per year, plus technical instruction.
Do electricians need a license? BLS says most states require electricians to be licensed. Requirements vary by state, so check your state licensing board.
Do I need a college degree to be an electrician? No. BLS lists a high school diploma or equivalent as the typical entry-level education, with training through an apprenticeship.
Is there demand for electricians? BLS projects 9 percent growth from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average, with about 72,700 openings per year.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electricians: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm (accessed 31 October 2026)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/ (accessed 31 October 2026)
- O*NET OnLine, 47-2111.00: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-2111.00 (accessed 31 October 2026)
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.