How To Get Your First Apprentice Electrician Job
2
min read
Seth Brown
Table of Contents
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for electricians is projected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This creates massive opportunities for people ready to start an electrical career without previous experience.
You can begin earning money immediately through an apprentice electrician job that pays you while you learn. No college degree required - just basic requirements and the willingness to work hard.
Two Ways to Get Your First Apprentice Electrician Job
Direct Apprenticeship Route
Apply straight to electrical apprenticeship programs and start earning from day one.
Timeline:
- Apply and get accepted: 1-6 months
- Start earning immediately as apprentice electrician
- Complete 4-5 years of paid training
- Ready to work as licensed journeyman
Trade School First Route
Complete 6 months to 2 years of electrical training before applying to apprenticeships.
Timeline:
- Trade school: 6 months to 2 years (costs tuition)
- Apply for apprentice electrician positions: 1-6 months
- Complete apprenticeship: 4-5 years
- Total time: 5-8 years
Most people choose the direct apprenticeship route because you get paid while learning instead of paying tuition first.
Basic Requirements for Apprentice Electrician Jobs
You don't need electrical experience to start. Here's what apprenticeship programs require:
Must Have:
- High school diploma or GED
- Be 18 years old (some accept 17)
- Reliable transportation
- Pass basic math and reading tests
- $150 investment in basic hand tools
Finding Apprentice Electrician Job Openings
Union Apprenticeships (IBEW)
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers offers structured programs with excellent benefits.
Application Process:
- Take electrical aptitude test
- Complete personal interview
- Get accepted into IBEW apprenticeship
- Start working for union contractors
Pros: Higher wages, better benefits, job security
Cons: More competitive, longer wait times
Non-Union Apprenticeships
Apply directly to electrical contractors hiring apprentices.
Application Process:
- Contact Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)
- Apply to individual electrical companies
- Interview with hiring managers
- Start working immediately when hired
Pros: More positions available, faster hiring
Cons: Benefits vary by company
Apprentice Electrician Salary Progression
You'll start by watching experienced electricians and handling basic tasks, then gradually take on more complex work as you build skills over your 4-year apprenticeship. Your pay increases each year as your skills develop:
- Year 1 apprentice: $35,000-$40,000
- Year 4 apprentice: $45,000-$55,000
- Licensed journeyman: $55,000-$75,000
- Experienced electrician: $65,000-$85,000+
You earn competitive wages throughout training, not after years of unpaid education.
The electrical trade gives you one of the clearest paths from zero experience to a well-paying career. Apprentice electrician jobs let you start earning right away while building skills for long-term success.
Don't wait - apprenticeship programs fill up quickly. The sooner you start, the sooner you're earning good money in a stable career with real growth potential.
If you need help finding apprentice electrician positions or connecting with electrical contractors, we work with companies across the country who are hiring right now. Your new career in electrical work starts with taking that first step.
FAQs
Do I need experience to get an apprentice electrician job?
No, most apprenticeship programs accept people with zero electrical experience. You just need a high school diploma, basic math skills, and the willingness to learn.
What's the average pay for a first-year apprentice electrician?
First-year apprentice electricians typically earn between $14 and $22 per hour. The national average is about $18.43 per hour, which is roughly 40-50% of a journeyman electrician's wage.
How long does it take to become a licensed electrician?
Most apprenticeships take 4-5 years to complete, requiring 8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus classroom instruction. You can then take your journeyman exam.
What's the difference between union and non-union apprenticeships?
Union programs (IBEW) take 5 years with structured benefits but are more competitive. Non-union programs take 4 years, have more openings, but benefits vary by company.
Can I get an apprentice electrician job without going to trade school first?
Yes, you can apply directly to apprenticeship programs without trade school. Many people choose this route because you start earning immediately instead of paying tuition first.
Ready to start your electrician career?
Download the Buildforce app for free to find apprentice and helper electrician jobs hiring right now.