Electricians are in demand—and it’s not just talk. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for electricians is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032. That’s faster than average for all occupations.
A paid apprenticeship lets you get trained and certified without paying tuition. Instead of sitting in a classroom full time, you’ll be out in the field, getting hands-on experience, working under licensed professionals—and getting paid.
Most programs last 4 to 5 years, and include both on-the-job training (usually 8,000 hours) and classroom instruction (typically 500–1,000 hours). After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll be eligible to take your state’s journeyman electrician exam.
🔍 Where to Find a Paid Electrical Apprenticeship Near You
1. Search the Apprenticeship.gov Directory
The U.S. Department of Labor’s official portal lets you search registered apprenticeships by ZIP code. Just type in your city or region and filter for “Electrician” under the occupation field. You’ll find both union and non-union listings, along with contact information and application steps.
2. Contact Your Local IBEW Union (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers)
The IBEW partners with NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) to offer the Electrical Training Alliance program—a gold standard in union apprenticeships. Find your local chapter at electricaltrainingalliance.org and inquire about upcoming application windows.
3. Check Out Non-Union Programs via IEC
The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) offers high-quality, non-union apprenticeships in over 50 U.S. chapters. Their programs are Department of Labor–registered, and IEC even offers online classroom instruction in some areas. Visit ieci.org and search by region.
4. Community Colleges and Trade Schools
Some community colleges partner with employers to provide pre-apprenticeship or direct placement into paid roles. Check with your local campus or technical school—especially those with electrical or construction programs.
5. Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and Local Classifieds
Don’t overlook traditional job boards. Employers often post “electrical apprentice” or “helper” roles that serve as entry-level training opportunities. Use location filters and keywords like:
- “Electrical apprentice”
- “Paid electrician training”
- “Entry-level electrician job”
💵 What You Can Expect to Earn as an Apprentice
Pay varies based on your location, union status, and year in the program, but here’s a general overview:
| Apprenticeship Year | Typical Hourly Wage | Annual Estimate (Full Time) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | $15–$21/hr | $31,000–$44,000 |
| 2nd–3rd Year | $22–$28/hr | $45,000–$58,000 |
| 4th–5th Year | $29–$35/hr | $60,000–$72,000 |
| Licensed Journeyman | $35–$50/hr+ | $70,000–$100,000+ |
📌 Union apprenticeships often guarantee raises at each level of progress. Some also include healthcare and pension benefits.
🧰 What You’ll Do and Learn
Electrical apprenticeships are hands-on from day one. You’ll learn how to:
- Install, repair, and maintain wiring systems
- Read blueprints and follow electrical codes
- Work with tools, circuits, and conduits
- Handle safety protocols on job sites
- Communicate with foremen, inspectors, and clients
Classroom instruction typically covers National Electrical Code (NEC), OSHA safety, electrical theory, and blueprint reading.
✅ How to Qualify and Apply
Most programs require that you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Pass a basic math or aptitude test
- Pass a drug test
Some programs are competitive—so applying early and demonstrating motivation (e.g., taking a pre-apprenticeship course) can help you stand out.
🏁 After the Apprenticeship: What Comes Next?
Once you complete your training, you’ll be eligible to take your state’s journeyman electrician exam. Pass it, and you’re officially licensed. From there, your career could grow in several directions:
- Residential or Commercial Electrician
- Industrial or Maintenance Electrician
- Electrical Estimator or Project Manager
- Self-Employed Contractor
- Master Electrician (with further licensing)
