How To Travel For Electrician Jobs: Boost Your Career And Income
2
min read
Seth Brown
Table of Contents
Skilled electricians can find high-paying opportunities by taking on travel work across the United States. Travel jobs often pay higher wages and offer per diem allowances that can dramatically increase your take-home pay. Right now, thousands of travel positions sit unfilled nationwide as companies compete for qualified electrical professionals. This guide breaks down exactly how to find these high-paying jobs, maximize your per diem benefits, and build a more profitable career while seeing new places.
Higher Pay Rates for Mobile Electricians
When you work as a traveling electrician, you can earn more than your local counterparts:
- Journeyman electricians in Texas, for example, have access to over 1,000 job openings with competitive pay
- Specializations like high voltage and industrial electrical work command premium rates
- Companies pay more for electricians willing to relocate temporarily for projects
What Is Per Diem Pay?
Per diem is a daily allowance that covers your living expenses while working away from home:
- Rates typically range from $15 to $100+ per day
- Some positions offer $100 daily plus weekly bonuses for completing all scheduled hours
- This money covers food, lodging, and travel expenses
Smart Money Management During Travel Work
Make your per diem go further with these strategies:
- Book cost-effective accommodations through Airbnb or extended-stay hotels
- Buy groceries instead of eating at restaurants for every meal
- Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel options
- Share housing with fellow traveling electricians to split costs
Finding Traveling Electrician Job Opportunities
Discover travel positions through these channels:
- Job boards like Indeed list numerous traveling electrician roles nationwide
- Join the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for access to union travel work
- Connect with specialized electrical staffing agencies that focus on travel assignments
- Network with other traveling electricians who can share job leads
Is Travel Electrical Work Right for You?
Travel electrical work offers unique advantages:
- Experience diverse projects and build a broader skill set
- Save money by receiving tax-free per diem payments
- Work intensively for periods, then take extended time off
- Build a nationwide professional network
Mobile electrical work creates pathways for career growth and financial improvement. Many electricians who start traveling for work report increasing their annual income within the first year. The combination of premium pay rates and per diems creates a financial opportunity beyond what may be available in your local area. Plus, the varied experience you'll gain working across multiple job sites makes you more valuable to future employers.
FAQs
Do traveling electricians make more money?
Yes, traveling electricians can earn higher wages than local electricians. They receive per diem payments ($15-$100+ daily) to cover food and housing expenses. This combination of higher hourly rates and tax-advantaged per diem can double your effective income compared to local work.
Where can I find traveling electrician jobs?
Find traveling electrician jobs on general job boards like Indeed, specialized trade sites, and through electrical unions like IBEW. Many electricians also find travel work through personal connections and by joining Facebook groups specifically for traveling tradespeople.
What is per diem pay for electricians?
Per diem pay is a daily allowance ($15-$100+) given to traveling electricians to cover meals, lodging, and incidental expenses when working away from home. This money is often tax-free when you meet IRS requirements. Per diem is paid in addition to your regular hourly wage.
Which states need electricians the most?
Texas, California, and Florida currently have a high number of electrician job openings. Alaska, Massachusetts, and Oregon offer the highest average pay rates. Specialized roles like avionics technicians, lineworkers, and marine technicians are in particularly high demand across multiple states.
How do electricians balance family life with travel work?
Many traveling electricians work concentrated schedules (like 7 days on, 7 days off) to maximize home time. Video calls help maintain daily contact with family. Some bring family members along during summer months or for longer assignments. Sharing digital calendars helps coordinate home visits.
What safety concerns should traveling electricians watch for?
Traveling electricians must quickly adapt to different job site safety protocols, local electrical codes, and unfamiliar work environments. Get proper rest despite changing accommodations, verify all safety equipment meets standards across different jurisdictions, and stay alert to regional workplace culture differences.
How can I advance my career as a traveling electrician?
Build career advancement as a traveling electrician by earning specialized certifications in high-demand areas like solar installation, industrial controls, or data centers. Document diverse project experience in a professional portfolio. Network consistently with project managers and supervisors who can recommend you for premium assignments with higher pay rates.
Ready to explore travel jobs?
View map and and apply in minutes in the Buildforce app. Find jobs in more places—travel for higher-paying work on your terms.