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The differences between licensed electricians and electrical apprentices can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-12 months to become a licensed electrician, becoming an electrical apprentice takes usually requires 8-10 years. Additionally, a licensed electrician has an average salary of $56,328, which is higher than the $37,081 average annual salary of an electrical apprentice.
The top three skills for a licensed electrician include electrical equipment, ladders and NEC. The most important skills for an electrical apprentice are run conduit, hand tools, and electrical systems.
A licensed electrician is responsible for operating electrical equipment and installing power systems to establishments, private households, and other industrial and commercial areas. Licensed electricians assemble complex wiring and electrical cables, requiring them to have an excellent analysis of mechanical schematics and blueprints. They conduct regular maintenance and inspection to ensure the safety and stability of the systems to prevent potential hazards and operational delays. A licensed electrician must have excellent mechanical and organizational skills, especially in following strict protocols and safety procedures during operations.
Sometimes called electrician apprentices, electrical apprentices assist the electricians in maintaining, repairing, and operating the electrical systems. Typically, they work in huge construction sites and facilities on their power distribution, lighting systems, and cables. These apprentices assist electricians in the installation of electrical systems. They have to be equipped with skills and knowledge in electrical equipment, installation, and safety regulations. It is also expected from them to become motivated team players and be well-organized.
Licensed electricians and electrical apprentices have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Licensed Electrician | Electrical Apprentice | |
| Average salary | $56,328 | $37,081 |
| Salary range | Between $37,000 And $84,000 | Between $27,000 And $50,000 |
| Highest paying City | Kent, WA | Springfield, MA |
| Highest paying state | Vermont | Alaska |
| Best paying company | Community Health Systems | Mortenson |
| Best paying industry | Utilities | Construction |
There are a few differences between a licensed electrician and an electrical apprentice in terms of educational background:
| Licensed Electrician | Electrical Apprentice | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 36% | High School Diploma, 45% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering Technology | Electrical Engineering Technology |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between licensed electricians' and electrical apprentices' demographics:
| Licensed Electrician | Electrical Apprentice | |
| Average age | 42 | 50 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 97.9% Female, 2.1% | Male, 94.1% Female, 5.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 9.0% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 18.9% Asian, 2.3% White, 64.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% | Black or African American, 6.3% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 10.4% Asian, 8.0% White, 70.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 8% |