15 Highest Paying Electrician Jobs Right Now

by Timothy Ronaldson

Updated

Without electricians, our power grid and electrical systems wouldn’t function.

As such, these professionals have high earning potential and fantastic job security. 

The best paying electrician jobs run the gamut, with some starting off relatively low and others clearing six figures.

15. Avionics Technician

Interested in learning how aircraft work? If so, this could be a great career path for you.

An avionics tech helps maintain and install electrical systems on an airplanes. These systems power aircraft’s computers, which allow pilots to fly safely.

It’s an entry-level job, but one that can lead to higher-paying positions in the industry.

Average salary: $37,351 (Indeed)

14. Lighting Specialist

lamps-in-store

A lighting specialist works with lighting designers and engineers to bring creative designs to life. The lighting applications can range from commercial to residential settings.

Unlike most jobs on this list, you won’t be setting up back-end electrical systems, but instead you’ll get to see your work literally light up.

If you’re interested in breaking into the field, make sure to check out these job tips

Average salary: $39,192 (ZipRecruiter)

Trend on the Rise

The global market for lighting is expected to grow 4.3% annually through 2027, reaching $163.72 billion in value. Clearly this industry is alive and well, especially if you specialize in LED lighting.

13. Commercial Electrician

The main duties of a commercial electrician are to maintain and install various electrical systems.

These can be used in commercial environments such as office buildings or even in residential homes.

It’s a great starting position for electricians, as it allows them to gain experience and move up the ladder into better paying positions in the future.

If you’re struggling to land a position, working at a small company will help you gain experience while still earning a decent salary.

Average salary: $42,082 (Indeed)

12. Low Voltage Electrician

Low voltage electricians work with fixtures and systems that, surprise, have low voltage. This includes basic wiring, small electrical equipment, and light fixtures.

The fun part about this job is it could include surveillance systems, entertainment systems, or even alarm systems.

Average salary: $45,426 (ZipRecruiter)

Tactic for Success

You can do some impressive things as a low voltage tech. If you want to hone your craft, try working with systems already available on the market, and see if you can improve them in any way. 

11. Marine Technician

ocean

If you like spending time out on the water, then becoming a marine technician might be for you.

This job involves maintaining and installing electrical systems on boats.

It could include the technology that powers on-board equipment for captains, and even the navigation equipment.

Average salary: $47,921 (Indeed)

10. Electrical Contractor

Electrical contractors are responsible for physically designing and building electrical systems for structures both large and small.

To be successful, you’ll need to read diagrams and blueprints to properly install all the components of an electrical system, such as breaker boxes and wiring.

It’s also a great starting job to learn the basics of electrical design.

Average salary: $49,903 (ZipRecruiter)

9. Electrical Technician

In this profession, you’ll spend your day repairing, testing, and building various electrical equipment.

Most of the time, electrical technicians work under the supervision of an electrical engineer, who actually designs the circuitry.

A cool part of this job is that you’ll often work in repair shops, manufacturing facilities, and even laboratories.

Occasionally you’ll be doing investigative work to figure out what’s going wrong with a system, or even trying to “break” a system on purpose to discover potential weaknesses.

Average salary: $54,241 (Indeed)

8. Lineman

This position involves maintaining, repairing, and installing outdoor electrical equipment that provides power to local businesses and homes.

Since linemen work on poles and power lines, it’s somewhat dangerous work, which is why it’s compensated more than other roles.

Professionals in this field have the opportunity to rise up in the ranks to design and oversee installations of new systems.

Average salary: $54,390 (Indeed)

7. Solar Electricity Installer

sunset-sky

Solar electricity is is booming, creating an increasing demand for experts.

This job involves working outdoors, often on roofs, to install solar grid systems for homes and buildings. 

Salaries are likely to continue rising as demand for solar energy keeps growing.

Average salary: $62,439 (Indeed)

6. Industrial Electrician

This job involves maintaining and repairing electrical equipment located in industrial facilities.

Factories utilize countless electrical machines, tools, and systems, all which need to stay in working order.  

If you’re looking for a specialty within the industry, oil rigs pay exceptionally well because of the challenging conditions.

Average salary: $63,412 (Indeed)

5. Electrical Inspector

Electrical systems can be dangerous, especially if not functioning correctly. That’s why it’s critical, and often required by law, they are inspected regularly.

The job of an inspector is to make sure all electrical systems are up to code and working properly.

Electrical inspectors are needed in a wide variety of industries from government agencies to fortune 500 companies.

Average salary: $63,664 (ZipRecruiter)

4. High Voltage Electrician

These specialists install, repair, and maintain electrical systems that handle high voltage.

In this role, you might be tasked with troubleshooting power outages, which involve climbing electrical towers and power lines.

High voltage electricians need to be comfortable with heights, as they’ll often be suspended high in the air for various projects.

Average salary: $67,839 (ZipRecruiter)

3. Lighting Engineer

Lighting engineers work hand-in-hand with lighting designers (more on that in a bit) to set up electrical systems and lighting on stage.

In the entertainment industry, lighting is instrumental for projects, which is why these engineers command such high rates.

Average salary: $70,900 (ZipRecruiter)

2. Lighting Designer

lighting-designer

Lighting designers work on a wide range of projects including commercial lighting design, theater productions, sporting events, and concerts.

It’s the perfect job for electricians who have a knack for creativity through visual design.

Average salary: $73,709 (ZipRecruiter)

1. Automation Technician

Automation is the name of the game in a number industries, including electricity. 

An automation technician makes sure that electrical systems work automatically and securely.

In addition to setting up systems, these professionals help customers calibrate settings to their specifications. 

Average salary: $78,106 (Indeed)

Wrapping Up

As an electrician, there are many opportunities to start small and build a long-lasting career that pays exceptionally well.

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About the Author

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Tim is a classically-trained journalist who loves to share knowledge and information with others. In the past, he has worked in TV, online and print media, and currently works with companies to help design, create and strategize their messaging.