Are electrical jobs on the rise? If you're new to the world of work or are ready to switch career paths, take a look at the top questions future electricians have answered.
What Is the Expected Job Growth Rate in This Field?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in the electrical field are projected to grow at a faster-than-average rate of 10 percent. This means the field is constantly adding jobs, giving you a greater opportunity to find work.
How Many Electrician Jobs Are Available?
There isn't a simple answer to this question. The total number of jobs in this field depends on several factors, such as the country's economy, local business and community needs, individual company hiring practices, and job creation initiatives.
Even though the specific number of jobs you can expect to find in this field is dependent on outside factors, the BLS's statistics can help you to better understand what is available and what will become available. In 2018, there were 715,400 electrician jobs, according to the BLS. The government agency expects the industry to add 74,100 more jobs by 2028.
Keep in mind, the BLS scrutinizes the statistical trends of the workforce, but it can't give a precise or definitive answer as to the projected number of jobs. The most important takeaway from the BLS's numbers is the overall increase in jobs over the next decade rather than the precise employment number.
What Industries Rely on Electricians?
To better understand the rise in electrician jobs and your employment outlook, you need to consider the industries that employ these professionals. While most electricians work as electrical contractors/wiring installation contractors (including as independent contractors, for small businesses, and for larger companies), other types of employers also hire these trade professionals.
The manufacturing sector, the government, heating and cooling contractors, hospitals, and schools/universities also hire skilled electricians. These types of employers may contract their electrical jobs out to other companies or directly hire professionals.
What Skills and Experience Do Employers Look For?
While the number of electrical jobs is on the rise, employers are just handing out positions to everyone who applies. You need to have the right skills and experience to score one of these positions. This includes a high school degree/equivalency, technical classes, and hands-on training. Many electricians learn their trade through multi-year apprenticeships.
Along with education and hands-on training experiences/apprenticeship, you'll also need a state license. After completing your licensing requirements, you can enter this fast-growing field.
To learn more, contact a company that offers electrical jobs in your area.