How to Become an Electrician in Ohio

The Bureau of Labor says that Ohio is the #5 state in the US for electrician employment. With the right training program, you can get started now.

Education and Training

An online program with open enrollment is the best way to begin the learning process today.

Local Trade School Programs

What Will You Study?

Foundational Electrical Knowledge:

• Electrical Theories and Principles:
  • Basic electrical theory covering voltage, current, resistance, transformers, and power.
  • Fundamentals of DC and AC electricity, including specific focus on single phase and 3 phase motors and controls.
  • Technical mathematics for detailed load calculations and advanced problem-solving.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

• Comprehensive Safety Training:
  • Field and shop safety practices to prevent workplace accidents.
  • Detailed instruction on electrical safety and jobsite safety protocols.
  • Circuit and personnel protection techniques to enhance safety during electrical operations.

Hands-On Skills and Techniques:

• Practical Wiring and Installation:
  • Residential and commercial wiring standards and practices.
  • Expertise in pipe bending and conduit management for effective wire routing.
• Advanced System Installations:
  • Grounding and bonding techniques for services.
  • Installation of feeders and management of separate building connections.

Code Compliance and Systems Management:

• Regulatory Standards Mastery:
  • In-depth study of the National Electrical Code to ensure compliance across projects.
  • Branch circuit fundamentals, including GFCI and AFCI protection requirements.
• Electrical System Operations:
  • Operation principles for comprehensive system management.
  • Handling and connection of required outlets, devices, and appliance setups.

Technical Proficiency with Tools and Materials:

• Tool and Material Use:
  • Mastery in using hand tools and power tools essential for daily tasks.
  • Knowledge of building materials such as conductors, cables, enclosures, cabinets, and terminal devices.

Project Management and Troubleshooting:

• Effective Project Execution:
  • Skills in project planning and execution to manage electrical installations and maintenance efficiently.
  • Advanced troubleshooting techniques to diagnose and resolve electrical issues swiftly.

Professional Skills and Career Development:

• Soft Skills and Industry Insight:
  • Development of soft skills for effective communication and professional interaction (optional).
  • Comprehensive understanding of the electrical industry to prepare for diverse career paths.
• Technical Documentation:
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings crucial for project planning and implementation.

Certification Preparation:

• Career Readiness and Certification:
  • Course challenges and assessments to test comprehensive knowledge and skills.
  • Preparation for national certification exams with provided study materials and exam vouchers.

How Much Does a Program Cost?

Between$2,500 and $5,000 for tuition which usually covers any exam fees.  Some programs include free tools in the cost.

How Long Do They Take?

Courses designed for students with no experience are usually 7 to 12 months. Online programs are usually faster.

Other Local Trade School Programs

Salary Range

Average salary data in the state from major employment sites and the Bureau of Labor:

• Salary.com – $52,737
• ZipRecruiter.com – $58,733
• CareerExplorer.com – $59,400
• Indeed.com – $60,732
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: $64,360

City and regional numbers from the BLS:

Area	Per Hour	Per Year
Akron	$33.50	$69,690
Canton-Massillon	$33.37	$69,410
Cincinnati	$30.19	$62,790
Cleveland-Elyria	$31.14	$64,780
Columbus	$30.99	$64,460
Dayton	$29.73	$61,840
Eastern Ohio	$29.87	$62,130
Lima	$30.82	$64,100
Mansfield	$27.21	$56,590
North Northeastern Ohio	$30.97	$64,410
Southern Ohio	$29.80	$61,980
Springfield	$28.94	$60,190
Toledo	$32.76	$68,130
West Northwestern Ohio	$32.06	$66,690
Youngstown-Warren-Boardman	$28.72	$59,730

_{Occupation: Electricians (SOC Code472111)}

_{source: data.bls.gov}

Interview With an Ohio Electrician

We talk to a young electrician in Ohio and discuss his career journey.

Video Transcription (Abbreviated)

Question:
“Please tell us what your experience has been since high school and what led you into the trades, specifically electrician.”

Answer:
“I did a construction trades career tech at my high school.

A career tech is something that you might take in high school that will advance you into a field of study or a career of some sort.

We had some for nursing, we had some for construction trades, engineering, among other things.

So I had taken engineering in high school, realized it wasn’t my kind of thing, I probably wouldn’t enjoy it going into college.

I wanted to get involved in building things and designed things..and I realized that I liked working with my hands a lot more. It was better for me to do that than stand behind a desk and design.

So I transferred to my construction trade school tech instead, and then through that I met a union carpenter union.

His name was Mr. Bricker, funny enough, and he had introduced me to the electrical trades.”

Question:
“Does the school cost a lot of money?”

Answer:
“It doesn’t cost a lot of money. I think for a year’s worth of tuition, I paid $600. I paid $600 and I paid my union fees on that.

Along with being a part of the union, we get a healthcare package, and retirement fund. We get prescription programs, we get a lot of extra benefits that come with that… we get a credit union, we get a couple different kinds of retirement funds that we can invest into on top of our pension that we get already.

Different locals do different things. Some have a vacation fund set up….
But for the most part it’s very because I’m out of high school right now, I’m 19 years old and I am in my apprenticeship program.

I’m a first year inside electrician as an apprentice. I have roughly 3,200 hours of work that I’ve done so far…

I work five days a week generally, unless I do a bit of overtime in which we can also work weekends if we want, and we get an increase in pay at that time on top of our wage already. So we get time and a half if we work most days.

And then holidays and special occasions like Christmas, Thanksgiving, if you ever work those days…they will pay you double your hourly rate.

Whenever you top out at the end of schooling, you will become what is known as a journeyman.

Journeyman electricians, specifically for where I am make roughly 37 dollars an hour. And then you also get all of your benefits on top of that.

I go to school two days a week. I actually just took my final for one of my classes today.”

Question:
“And where is your school? Is it at a local college?”

Answer:
“It’s called the JATC, Joint Apprenticeship Training Center.

The one I am at is in the Jackson Township area of Ohio.

The way that they do credits..they also work through a community college…I do get college credits on top of it.

If I ever wanted to in the future, I could go to college if I wanted to, but with what I already get, it’s already great to just work with the career that they give me at the end of it.”

Question:
“What’s the message that you would give to students from your school if you went back in there today?”

Answer:
“I like to studying a field and knowing that you can learn practical skills immediately…It’s a very understandable thing, worrying about how it’s going to be in the future for you, knowing that you might be doing a job that you dont like after putting in time and money. That was the one biggest fear I had.

And knowing that when you get into the trades, you are able to do so many different things after finishing it.

It’s not like you just get your license and you can only do that, you can expand your portfolio by a lot and for a lot less of the price than a tuition of a college, frankly. Colleges have their place and they’re amazing for the careers that they provide, but when it comes to needing people to build a house for you, or being able to serve your community in a way…or help friends and family members with the work that you can provide, it’s a very rewarding feeling.

And frankly, it pays well.”

Ohio Requirements

Electrical Licensing

To become a licensed electrician in Ohio, you must be 18, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete an apprenticeship or training program with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction.

Verified work experience under a licensed electrician can sometimes substitute for the formal apprenticeship program.

Application

The application process involves submitting proof of your work experience or apprenticeship completion and documentation like transcripts or recommendation letters.

Exam

The exam covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), local building codes, safety protocols, and practical electrical knowledge.

Costs

Costs include an initial application and exam fees totaling around $175, depending on your jurisdiction.

After passing the exam, you must pay a licensing fee ranging from $50 to $150.

Renewals

Licensed electricians must renew their licenses periodically with the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) every 1 to 3 years, with renewal fees ranging from $60 to $100, depending on the level of licensure.

Journeyman License

The Journeyman electrical license is the first significant milestone in the journey to becoming a licensed electrician in Ohio.

Requirements

In addition to meeting the general electrical licensing requirements, the exam application process involves submitting proof of your work experience or apprenticeship completion and necessary documentation like transcripts or recommendation letters.

Exam

The licensing exam covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), local building codes, safety protocols, and practical electrical knowledge.

Costs

Licensing costs include an initial application and exam fees totaling around $175, depending on your jurisdiction. After passing the exam, you must pay a licensing fee ranging from $50 to $150.

Licensed electricians must renew their licenses periodically with the OCILB every 1 to 3 years, with renewal fees ranging from $60 to $100, depending on the level of licensure.

Master License (Electrical Contractor)

To become a Master Electrician, you need at least five years of vocational experience, three years as a registered electrical engineer, or equivalent experience approved by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) on top of meeting the general licensing requirements.

You must also carry a minimum of $500,000 in contractor liability insurance.

In addition to possessing a prerequisite Journeyman license, the process involves submitting an application, passing a state and federal background check, and completing the licensing exam. Upon passing, you receive your master’s license, allowing you to operate as an electrical contractor in Ohio.

What Employers in Ohio Are Seeking in Electricians

Employers across Ohio are actively seeking skilled, reliable, and adaptable electricians to meet the growing demand for electrical services in various industries. The job market reflects a blend of technical proficiency, safety awareness, and customer service skills, with crossover into fields such as aerospace, facility maintenance, and energy systems. Companies like Beck Electric, Sierra Lobo, Inc., Lane Valente Industries, and River Cities Builders Petroleum Services represent a range of employers highlighting the skills and attributes they value most in electricians.

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Core Skills and Qualifications

Ohio employers prioritize a combination of technical expertise, safety awareness, and interpersonal skills in electricians.

1. Technical Proficiency
   • Electrical System Diagnostics and Repairs: Employers expect candidates to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair electrical systems efficiently. For example, Beck Electric requires its apprentices to assist in electrical installations and repairs, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety standards.
   • Ability to Read and Interpret Schematics: Companies such as River Cities Builders place significant importance on the ability to read and interpret schematics, product specifications, and procedural manuals.
   • Hands-on Experience with Tools: Electricians must be skilled in using both hand and power tools, including drills, conduit benders, and electrical testers. Lane Valente Industries emphasizes the ability to use tools effectively for installation, repairs, and troubleshooting.
2. Certifications and Licensing
   • Apprenticeship and Journeyperson Programs: Companies like Sierra Lobo, Inc. require apprentices to complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under journeyperson electricians, meeting Ohio’s apprenticeship standards.
   • State Certifications: Employers expect candidates to either possess or be willing to obtain the necessary certifications, with some companies offering assistance with certification costs.
3. Commitment to Safety
   • OSHA Compliance and Safety Protocols: Safety is a major focus, with companies like River Cities Builders and Beck Electric enforcing strict adherence to OSHA guidelines. This includes identifying and mitigating potential hazards before starting work.
   • Protective Equipment and Clean Work Practices: Electricians are expected to maintain clean and safe workspaces, following proper procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.

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Desired Work Ethic and Soft Skills

Employers are seeking more than just technical ability; they also prioritize candidates with strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a customer-focused mindset.

1. Reliability and Accountability
   • Companies value individuals who show punctuality, dependability, and a strong work ethic. At Beck Electric, top performers are rewarded with career growth opportunities and increased earning potential.
   • The ability to work independently and in teams is essential. For example, Lane Valente Industries expects electricians to collaborate effectively with journeypersons while also handling tasks independently.
2. Customer-Centric Service
   • In service-oriented roles, such as with Beck Electric, electricians are expected to build strong customer relationships through clear communication and professionalism. This includes explaining issues to customers and offering solutions confidently.
   • Electricians must demonstrate empathy, patience, and problem-solving skills, especially when dealing with residential or commercial clients.

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Cross-Discipline and Industry Crossover

In Ohio, electricians frequently find crossover opportunities in related industries, expanding their career potential.

1. Aerospace and Research
   • Sierra Lobo, Inc., which partners with NASA’s Glenn Research Center, offers a unique career path for electricians in aerospace propulsion and power test facilities. This role involves maintaining intricate test packages and complex electrical systems—a skill set transferable to other high-tech industries.
2. Facility Maintenance and Energy Systems
   • Companies such as Lane Valente Industries provide opportunities to work in energy reduction, facility maintenance, and value engineering. Electricians in this sector benefit from exposure to sustainability practices, energy management systems, and innovative technologies.
3. Petroleum and Industrial Systems
   • River Cities Builders offers roles with crossover into fuel dispensing systems and commercial electric installations, expanding an electrician’s expertise into the petroleum and industrial services sector.

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Key Employers and Their Offerings

Ohio companies are competing for top electrical talent by offering competitive pay, benefits, and training programs.

• Beck Electric
  • Pay: $16–$20 per hour.
  • Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; retirement plans; company outings.
  • Career Growth: Offers ongoing training and professional development.
• Sierra Lobo, Inc.
  • Industry: Aerospace and research.
  • Training: 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with NASA-related projects.
  • Specialty: Power test facilities and high-tech electrical systems.
• Lane Valente Industries
  • Pay and Benefits: Competitive pay with 401(k) matching, health insurance, and paid vacations.
  • Specialty: Facility maintenance and energy reduction, offering exposure to cutting-edge technologies.
• River Cities Builders
  • Industry: Petroleum and commercial systems.
  • Benefits: 401(k) with profit sharing, health insurance, paid travel, and relocation assistance.
  • Specialty: Fuel dispensing systems and commercial electrical installations.

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Conclusion: The Ideal Electrician in Ohio

Ohio employers are looking for electricians who bring a blend of technical skill, safety awareness, and customer service excellence. Candidates with apprenticeship experience, relevant certifications, and a strong work ethic will have the best job prospects. Additionally, those open to crossover industries such as aerospace, energy systems, and industrial maintenance will find expanded career opportunities.

Companies like Beck Electric, Sierra Lobo, Lane Valente Industries, and River Cities Builders highlight the diversity of roles and career paths available to electricians in Ohio, offering competitive pay, robust benefits, and opportunities for career growth.