what is an industrial electrician?
As an industrial electrician, you diagnose electrical failures during the manufacturing process. You use diagnostic equipment to identify and resolve issues to minimize downtime. An in-depth understanding of electrical systems is essential to quickly repairing faults. You must also be familiar with blueprints, technical drawings, and the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifications.
If a facility requires an overhaul of its electrical system, you install and test it to ensure safety and functionality. You also install electrical systems in new industrial buildings. If a facility experiences electrical faults, you troubleshoot the equipment, identify the issue, and perform necessary repairs. You also provide routine maintenance to keep electrical systems running efficiently.
Industrial electricians typically work on large-scale electrical projects and complex systems. They are commonly employed in power generation plants, manufacturing facilities, automotive plants, and other industries reliant on heavy machinery. By ensuring that electrical systems function properly, industrial electricians play a vital role in minimizing production downtime and maintaining operational efficiency.
Would working as an industrial electrician suit your problem-solving skills and technical expertise? Read on to find out what qualifications and competencies you need to thrive in this career.
industrial electrician jobsaverage salary of an industrial electrician
The average salary for an industrial electrician in the United States is around $65,000 to $85,000 per year, or approximately $30 to $40 per hour.
Entry-level positions typically start at around $50,000 annually, while highly experienced industrial electricians or those with specialized certifications can earn upwards of $100,000 per year. Overtime pay, bonuses, and union membership can significantly increase earnings.
what factors affect the salary of an industrial electrician?
Several factors influence an industrial electrician’s salary, including:
- Experience and certifications: Apprentices earn less than journeymen and master electricians, who command higher wages due to their expertise.
- Industry and employer: Working in specialized industries like aerospace or renewable energy may yield higher wages compared to general manufacturing.
- Location: Salaries vary by region, with higher wages in states like California, Texas, and New York, where industrial demand and cost of living are higher.
- Overtime and shift work: Many industrial electricians earn additional income through overtime, night shifts, or emergency repair work.
check your salary in one click!
Compare it with the average for other professionals in your sector.
access our tooltypes of industrial electricians
Industrial electricians fall into different categories based on their experience level:
- Apprentice Industrial Electricians: Work under supervision while completing training and coursework. They perform basic tasks and gain hands-on experience.
- Journeyman Industrial Electricians: After completing an apprenticeship, journeymen are licensed to work independently, handling electrical repairs, maintenance, and installations.
- Master Industrial Electricians: With years of experience, master electricians supervise projects, train journeymen, and may run their own electrical businesses.
working as an industrial electrician
Working as an industrial electrician means taking on a lot of responsibility. However, it also means being part of a high-paying field with good job security. Here's what you should know about working as an industrial electrician:
-
industrial electrician job description
Industrial electricians handle a range of responsibilities, including:
- Installing electrical systems: Setting up new wiring and testing it for functionality and compliance with NEC standards.
- Reading blueprints and electrical schematics: Ensuring installations match technical specifications and meet safety codes.
- Troubleshooting equipment: Identifying and repairing electrical malfunctions in machinery and industrial systems.
- Performing preventive maintenance: Regular inspections and testing to minimize equipment failures.
- Writing reports: Documenting repairs, maintenance, and system upgrades for company records.
-
work environment
Industrial electricians may work in manufacturing plants, power facilities, or outdoor construction sites. The job can be physically demanding, requiring standing, climbing, or working in confined spaces. Exposure to live electricity, high temperatures, and noisy environments is common, so safety precautions are essential.
-
who are your colleagues?
As an industrial electrician, you work with electrical engineers, maintenance technicians, facility managers, project managers, automation specialists, industrial mechanics, and safety inspectors to ensure smooth operations and compliance with safety regulations.
-
industrial electrician work schedule
Industrial electricians work full-time, with many opportunities for overtime. Some roles require working nights, weekends, or on-call shifts for emergency repairs. Most electricians work at least 40 hours per week, though some may have flexible schedules if self-employed.
-
job outlook
The demand for industrial electricians is expected to grow by 6% through 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As industries expand and upgrade their electrical systems, skilled electricians will remain in high demand. Career advancement opportunities include supervisory roles, project management, or transitioning into electrical engineering with additional education.
-
advantages of finding an industrial electrician job through Randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
industrial electrician skills and education
To become an industrial electrician in the United States, follow these steps:
- High school diploma or GED: A basic requirement for entering an apprenticeship program.
- Apprenticeship program: Enroll in a four- to five-year apprenticeship that combines hands-on training with classroom instruction.
- Technical school training (optional): Some electricians attend trade schools or community colleges to gain additional knowledge in electrical systems.
- Licensing and certification:
- Most states require industrial electricians to obtain a state license.
- Certifications like the Journeyman Electrician License or Master Electrician License vary by state.
- OSHA safety training and National Electrical Code (NEC) certification may be required for some jobs.
Key skills for industrial electricians
- Technical knowledge: Strong understanding of electrical systems, troubleshooting, and repair techniques.
- Attention to detail: Precision in wiring and diagnostics to prevent errors and safety hazards.
- Problem-solving abilities: Quickly identifying and resolving electrical issues.
- Physical stamina: Ability to lift heavy equipment, climb ladders, and work in various environments.
- Adherence to safety protocols: Following OSHA and NEC guidelines to maintain workplace safety.
FAQs
FAQs about working as an industrial electrician
-
what does an industrial electrician do?
Industrial electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in factories, manufacturing plants, and industrial facilities.
-
how long does it take to become an industrial electrician?
It typically takes four to five years to complete an apprenticeship and become a licensed journeyman.
-
what do industrial electricians install?
Manufacturing, energy production, automotive, aerospace, and food processing industries commonly employ industrial electricians.
-
is being an industrial electrician hard?
The job requires technical expertise, physical effort, and safety awareness. However, it offers high earning potential and job security.
-
what skills does an industrial electrician need?
An industrial electrician is flexible and adaptable to changing work practices. It is also important to be analytical when studying technical drawings or wiring plans. Want to learn more about working as an industrial electrician? Then check out this article.
-
how do I apply for an industrial electrician vacancy?
Search job listings, apply online, or connect with a recruiter to find openings in your area.
submit your resume
Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.
