Whether you’re a seasoned electrician or someone looking to enter the field, now is a great time for electricians looking for work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrician jobs are expected to increase 6% per year through 2032 — higher than the average for all occupations. This equates to approximately 73,500 job openings for electricians each year.
Many electricians looking for work start by searching “find electrician jobs near me” online, then click through the results. However, you can boost your chances of landing your ideal electrician job by preparing for your job search with a solid plan of action.
Here are five critical areas for electricians looking for work to consider before searching electrician job listings.
1. Consider your career qualifications compared to others looking for electrician work
Employers seeking electricians will likely receive many job applications. Be prepared to communicate your education, experience, skills and anything else that sets you apart from other job applicants. Taking time to reflect on your experiences and aspirations can help set you up for success.
Define your career goals and job preferences
Are you satisfied at your current level, or would you like to move up? Be ready to sum up your career goals on your applications and in interviews. Also, consider your job preferences. Are you interested in working at a single location or do you want to work at a variety of jobsites? Do you prefer to work regular hours or are you open to overtime? Clarifying your goals and preferences can help you focus on the electrician job listings that are best for you and your future.
Understand the different types of electrician jobs
To find electrical jobs that you’re most interested in, it’s important to know the different types of electrician jobs and the terminology employers use in listing them. To begin with, be sure to understand the skills and experience required for each career level, so that you can home in on the right roles — from apprentice to master electrician. Consider how well-suited you are for opportunities such as:
- Linemen
- Wiremen
- Installation electrician
- Residential electrician
- Commercial electrician
- Industrial electrician
- Maintenance electrician
- Low voltage electrician
Find electrical jobs in your specialization
If you’re qualified to work in a specialized role, like those listed above, narrowing your job search focus will put the jobs you want front and center. Instead of searching “find electrician jobs near me,” be as specific as possible. You can search by job type (“linemen jobs,” “wiremen jobs”) or specialty (“commercial electrician jobs” or “industrial electrician jobs”).
If you’re new to the field or don’t have a specialization, consider pursuing a specialty. Specialized electricians like commercial and industrial electricians often earn higher pay and have more opportunities for advancement.
Consider traveling electrician jobs
Traveling electricians are no different from other electricians in terms of training and job skills. However, traveling from job to job can offer unique opportunities that might appeal to you. For example:
- Working in different cities, allowing you to explore and experience new areas
- Traveling for extended periods of time, which may suit your housing situation
- Working in regions with higher pay rates while having your meals, lodging and travel expenses paid
- Accepting the job assignments that work for you, so you’re in control of your schedule
2. Assess your education and find electrical jobs to match
For electricians looking for work, or those looking to become an electrician, you may want to do some research and determine whether you need more education and training.
Review the requirements for becoming an electrician
Each state is different in terms of the requirements to become a licensed electrician. State requirements for journeyperson electricians, apprentice electricians and master electricians can also change. Those looking for electrician work need to understand these requirements in order to identify the right opportunities and plot a career path.
Obtain the necessary certifications and licenses to find electrical jobs that interest you
Getting licensed and certified in your state prepares you to find electrician job listings that meet your needs, interests and career goals. Research which licenses and certifications are required in your state for the type of electrician jobs you want to pursue.
Seek apprenticeships and on-the-job training
Electrician apprentice programs help workers develop electrical experience, skills and knowledge to pass their state’s electrician licensure exam and obtain work as an electrician. An apprentice develops their technical knowledge while learning on-the-job skills by working side-by-side with a master electrician.
An ideal way to build skills and attain certifications necessary to work in the electrical field is through WorkUp, a partnership between PeopleReady Skilled Trades and PeopleReady. WorkUp helps identify and prepare our most dedicated workers for long and rewarding careers in the construction industry through online learning courses and hands-on training with leading companies.
3. Review the skills needed for electricians looking for work
Having the technical knowledge to be an electrician is only part of the equation. Experienced workers looking for electrician work also need to be equipped with a wide range of skills.
Develop your knowledge and expertise
Electricians must be able to demonstrate a variety of technical knowledge, from reading blueprints to knowing how to operate tools and computer programs. The technical knowledge required for those looking for electrician work can be obtained by completing an apprenticeship, attending a trade or technical school, or earning a bachelor’s degree. You can also complete the training to get started as an electrician through programs like WorkUp.
Maintain stamina and physical fitness
Working as an electrician can be a physically demanding job. Electricians are typically expected to perform various physical activities as part of their job duties, with or without reasonable accommodation. In general, electricians must be able to:
- Differentiate color-coded wiring
- Withstand prolonged periods of standing, kneeling, bending and climbing
- Maneuver on ladders, scaffolding and a variety of other surfaces and spaces
- Lift and carry tools and materials
- Manipulate various components and controls
Possess strong teamwork skills and other in-demand soft skills
On any jobsite, teamwork improves efficiency, safety and the overall quality of work. Employers highly value those who can collaborate effectively to get the job done right. Being able to describe and give examples of your teamwork and other soft skills will set you apart from other job seekers. Some examples of soft skills include:
- Active listening
- Adaptability
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Positive attitude
- Leadership skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Time management skills
Follow safety awareness protocols
Safety is a top priority for any electrician. Employers want to know that you understand and will follow all safety protocols to ensure your well-being as well as the safety of your team and others. Be aware of the safety protocols for electricians in the areas you wish to work, especially with any specialties.
4. Explore different methods for looking for electrician work
From online job searches to good old handshakes and in-person visits, there are a number of ways to land your ideal electrician job. Here are just a few suggestions to help you find electrician jobs that appeal to you.
Explore online job search platforms and websites
As we have discussed, searching “find electrician jobs near me” online will display thousands of electrician job openings. Adjusting your search parameters by, for example, adding a specialty or type of electrician job will narrow down the list. There are also a number of companies that offer job listings in the skilled trades, including those for electricians. For instance, PeopleReady Skilled Trades shares job listings for electricians from our industry partners across the U.S.
Network within the construction/electrical industry
There are many ways you can network with others in the construction and electrical industries:
- Take part in local and online events, many of which are free
- Join skilled trades groups and associations, such as the National Electrical Contractors Association
- Visit local electrical contractors and companies
- Develop relationships with partners, such as facility managers, project managers, vendors and subcontractors
Embrace the power of social media
Consider joining or expanding your visibility on social media platforms. Many companies have a presence on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and other networks. Make sure your profile showcases you as an experienced professional (or someone eager to learn).
Next, search for the social media sites of companies you would like to work for, as well as industry associations and professional groups. We recommend being active in posting and commenting on their posts. You can also consider reaching out to companies and inquiring about potential opportunities. Above all, be professional in your social interactions, as they can make a difference in your career prospects.
Explore the benefits of working with a skilled trades staffing agency
Working with a skilled trades staffing agency offers several benefits for electricians seeking work. These staffing agencies often have extensive networks and connections within the construction industry, providing access to a wide range of job opportunities. Additionally, they can help match electricians just like you with roles that fit your skills and experience, leading to more fulfilling career opportunities.
Check out PeopleReady Skilled Trades, where you can:
- Search electrician job listings, including traveling and temp-to-hire opportunities
- Find helpful articles with job search tips and insights to help you land your ideal job
- Explore our tradesperson resource center for even more information
5. Knock your electrician job interviews out of the park
Once you’ve landed a job interview, there are steps you can take to ensure that you seal the deal. You’ll be competing against other candidates, so prepare in advance to make sure your responses to the interviewer’s questions make you stand out. Here are some typical interview questions and our suggestions for giving a memorable and positive response.
What types of tools and equipment are you familiar with?
You can prepare for this question by researching the tools and equipment the company or the specific job requires. While discussing your proficiency with these tools and equipment, incorporate examples of how your expertise helps you complete tasks quickly and safely.
How do you ensure safety on the jobsite?
In your answer, include your knowledge and awareness of specific safety protocols that will be used on the job. Note any safety certifications you hold or safety awards or recognition. Also, be sure to offer an example of how you handled witnessing a safety violation or someone working in an unsafe manner.
Can you share an example of a time you worked well as part of a team?
Provide an example that demonstrates how working as part of a team made the task or project easier, more efficient and able to be completed on time. You can also mention how much you enjoy the camaraderie among your team and the shared sense of satisfaction of a job well done.
What is your process for addressing concerns?
When asking this question, the interviewer wants to know that you follow necessary procedures for handling potential issues. Explain how following established protocols for addressing concerns has worked well for you in the past.
How do you overcome challenges or changes to the projects you work on?
Employers are looking for electricians who can think creatively and problem-solve in productive ways. Share an example where you helped rally your team by encouraging and supporting them and pitched in while maintaining a positive attitude.
PeopleReady Skilled Trades can help you find electrician jobs
At PeopleReady Skilled Trades, we work to connect electricians like you with the right job opportunities. Make your next career move with the support and expertise of a staffing agency that understands your needs. If you’re looking for electrician work, turn to PeopleReady Skilled Trades and make your job search count.
