What to Pay Journeyman Electricians in 2024: Guide for Electrical Contractors
4
min read
Seth Brown
Table of Contents
As an electrical contractor, one of the most important things you have to do is figure out how much to pay your journeyman electricians. Journeyman electricians are very important to any electrical project because they bring their industry knowledge to all stages of your electrical projects. Journeyman electricians perform tasks that demand significant expertise and experience. Their responsibilities include installing critical infrastructure such as panels, transformers, and disconnect switches. Additionally, they often troubleshoot electrical issues, enforce safety standards, and mentor apprentice electricians.
Journeymen are so valuable because they can handle full-day tasks and make sure projects meet safety and code requirements.
This guide will give you a good foundational understanding of how much to pay journeyman electricians so that you can attract and retain top talent for your electrical business.
Factors That Influence Journeyman Electrician Pay
How much journeyman electricians should be paid depends on a few key factors:
1. Geographic Location
Pay rates vary significantly based on location due to differences in:
- Cost of living
- Local demand for electrical services
- State and local regulations
For example, electricians in urban areas or regions with high living costs typically command higher wages than those in rural or lower-cost areas.
2. Experience and Skill Level
- Years of experience as a journeyman
- Specialized skills or certifications
- Track record of successful projects
More experienced electricians with a diverse skill set often earn higher wages.
3. Industry Demand
Certain sectors have a higher demand for electrical work, which can drive up wages:
- Commercial construction
- Industrial manufacturing
- Renewable energy installations
Staying informed about industry trends can help you adjust your pay scales accordingly.
4. Union vs. Non-Union Work
Union electricians often receive:
- Higher base pay rates
- More comprehensive benefits packages
- Structured pay increases based on experience
Non-union shops may offer more flexibility in pay structures but need to remain competitive to attract top talent.
Average Salary Ranges for Journeyman Electricians
While salaries can vary widely, here are some general ranges to consider:
- National average: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
- Entry-level journeyman: $45,000 - $60,000 per year
- Experienced journeyman: $70,000 - $100,000+ per year
Remember, these figures are just averages. Your specific offers should account for all the factors mentioned earlier.
Average Journeyman Salaries by City
According to ZipRecruiter's job listing data, journeyman electricians earn an average yearly salary of $68,058, or $33 per hour nationwide.
Here's how some of the most searched-for cities average hourly wage compares to that national average:
Creating a Competitive Pay Structure
To create an attractive compensation package for journeyman electricians:
- Conduct regular market research: Stay updated on industry salary trends in your area.
- Create a tiered pay system: Offer clear paths for wage increases based on experience and performance.
- Consider performance bonuses: Reward electricians who consistently exceed expectations or bring in new business.
- Offer comprehensive benefits: Health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off can set you apart from competitors.
- Provide opportunities for advancement: Outline paths to master electrician or management roles.
Tips for Journeyman Salary Negotiations
It's important to be ready when talking about pay with journeyman electricians. Get information on the standards for the industry and be ready to talk about how the electrician's skills and experience compare to these standards. Make sure they know how valuable they are to your team, and be willing to talk about any other benefits or incentives that might make your offer more appealing.
When discussing pay with journeyman electricians:
- Be transparent about your pay structure and how decisions are made
- Highlight the full compensation package, including benefits and growth opportunities
- Be prepared to discuss specific skills and experience that justify higher pay
- Listen to their expectations and be willing to compromise when appropriate
- Consider non-monetary perks that might be valuable to the electrician
How to Retain Journeyman Electricians
While competitive pay is most important, other factors can help you keep top journeyman electricians on your team:
- Invest in ongoing training and education
- Provide quality tools and equipment
- Foster a positive work environment with open communication
- Offer flexible scheduling when possible
- Recognize and reward exceptional work publicly
Deciding on the right pay for journeyman electricians is a balancing act between remaining competitive in the market and managing your electrical business's bottom line. By understanding the factors that influence pay, staying informed about industry trends, and developing a more complete compensation package, you can attract and retain the skilled electricians your business needs to thrive.
Remember, investing in your journeyman electricians is an investment in your company's future. Fair and competitive compensation not only helps you build a skilled and loyal workforce but also enhances your reputation as an employer of choice in the electrical contracting industry.
FAQs
How much money does a journeyman electrician make?
Most journeyman electricians earn between $55,000 and $75,000 a year. New journeymen might start around $45,000, while those with lots of experience can make over $100,000, especially in high-demand areas.
What's the usual hourly pay for a journeyman electrician?
Journeyman electricians typically make about $33 per hour. But this can be higher or lower depending on where they work, their experience, and if they're in a union.
Is being a journeyman electrician a good-paying job?
Yes, it's generally well-paid. With average yearly pay between $55,000 and $75,000, and chances to earn more through overtime and bonuses, it's a solid career choice.
How long does it take to become a journeyman electrician?
It usually takes 4-5 years. This includes an apprenticeship where you work and take classes. After that, in some states you need to pass a test to get your license.
Can a journeyman electrician earn $100,000 or more a year?
It's possible, especially for those with lots of experience or in high-paying areas. Some achieve this through lots of overtime or by moving into management roles.