From product manufacturing to powering homes and automobiles, the work of electricians contributes to many operations that people see and use every day. Qualified electricians who are competent and safe are in high demand. Those who possess specialized skills, such as an understanding of robotics and aircraft internal systems, can expect to find roles relatively easily and can earn high amounts of money.
In this post, we examine the types of electrician specialties that offer the highest salaries as well as the states and cities with the highest mean salaries.
However, before we go any further, it is important to point out that regardless of the type of work you perform as an electrician, you will benefit from fully researching your insurance requirements to ensure you have adequate insurance for electricians in place.
Which kinds of electricians earn the highest salaries?
Because of demand or location, electricians who specialize in particular fields or industries tend to make more money. Here are the 12 electrical jobs that earn the highest salaries:
- Avionics technician
Average yearly wage: $39,310.
An avionics technician’s major responsibilities are to install and repair an aircraft’s electrical equipment. Avionics systems are used by pilots and computers to physically and electrically operate aircraft; therefore, avionics technicians must carefully maintain these systems to keep aircraft in the air and passengers safe. Additionally, avionics technicians frequently work overtime; as such, they get a significant portion of their compensation from such hours.
- Industrial electricians
Average yearly wage: $42,641.
The responsibilities of an industrial electrician are quite similar to those of a commercial electrician, but they are less experienced in production environments. This employment pays highly because it is in high demand.
- Linesman
Average yearly wage:
Linesmen are responsible for maintaining and servicing power lines and other outside electrical infrastructure. Given the potential for risk, the need for physical fitness, and the ongoing maintenance of safe methods, this profession is well paid in comparison to alternative specialisms.
- Marine technologist
Average yearly wage: $50,053
Marine technologies are responsible for serving and maintaining electrical systems aboard boats that power and navigate onboard devices. They frequently acquire high-paying positions because of their specific knowledge.
- Wind turbine experts
Average yearly wage: $51,784
Wind turbine technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and inspecting wind turbines. This work requires intricate repairs and specialist knowledge; as such, the pay is high to reflect the complexity of the work.
- Electrical engineers
Average yearly wage: $55,418
Under the typical supervision of an electrical engineer, electrical technicians construct, maintain, test, and repair electrical equipment. This task frequently takes place in a lab, a manufacturing facility, or a repair shop.
- Maintenance engineer
Average yearly wage: $57,703
A maintenance electrician may install, repair, and maintain electrical equipment in any industrial or commercial context. Demand for this post is high because it is comparable to that of an industrial electrician.
- Electrical supervisor
Average yearly wage: $60,937
Electrical foremen oversee the works of other electricians on interior and exterior projects like building sites and power stations. They manage the construction and maintenance of electrical systems as well as their planning and design.
- Solar technician
Average yearly wage: $63,927
An individual who installs and maintains photovoltaic systems, or solar panels, is known as a solar installer, solar technician, or PV installer. Travel and outside work make up the majority of this profession. Since solar panels are becoming more and more popular, more employment opportunities and wage rises are anticipated.
- Industrial electrical engineer
Average yearly wage: $64,442
Industrial electricians maintain and repair electrical machinery in industrial and commercial contexts. The fact that many manufacturing activities use electrically powered equipment contributes to their high pay and demand. Due to the remote location, specialized safety expertise needed, and profitability of the sector, working as an industrial electrician on an oil rig can be especially lucrative.
- Substation technicians
Average yearly wage: $67,807
A substation technician or substation electrician keeps an eye on and maintains the substations that control and distribute electricity to local residences and businesses. Because it requires handling a lot of power and being prepared to solve issues whenever they emerge, this job pays handsomely.
- Automation technician
Average yearly wage: $80,092.
An automation technician works with electrical systems that regulate automation in many different contexts, such as industrial processing and manufacturing. Because programming knowledge is necessary to maintain and build automated systems, this position pays particularly well.