Electricians install and repair electrical components and ensure that these systems are as safe as possible while working efficiently. In Nebraska, individuals who desire to enter the electrician specialty must receive the proper level of training.
The guide below lays out all the key requirements in this regard. We don’t just stop there, though. We also help candidates navigate the technicalities regarding licensure and certifications, hands-on training, and specialization possibilities.
Those who want to discover the best programs to acquire fundamental training will also find a list of viable options below. Lastly, the guide rounds up with an extensive overview of the annual average salary for electricians in Nebraska.
How to Become an Electrician in Nebraska
Aspiring electricians in Nebraska are advised to follow the steps below to start their careers on the right path.
Basic Requirements
Nebraska is one of the states where candidates need to have a high school diploma or GED before they start an electrician career. Being physically fit and having a strong understanding of fundamental mathematics and algebra are also helpful.
Graduating from an Academic Program
Candidates in Nebraska can become electricians without attending an academic program. Many still choose this approach anyway because not only will they understand the foundational topics in the field, but they will also be able to earn valuable awards and degrees to stand out among the competition.
Electrician training programs in Nebraska can be structured in various ways, including 6-month programs, 1-year programs, 2-year programs, and even 4-year electrical technology degree programs.
Completing an Apprenticeship
Most apprenticeship training programs for electricians in Nebraska can be completed in five years, and some even offer students the opportunity to start earning some income towards the latter stages of their education.
The state expects a combination of classroom instructions and hands-on training, so even the most hands-on apprenticeships still include theoretical learning.
Job Placement & Continuous Learning
Lastly, individuals who have completed all the above steps may go on to receive their license and start working professionally. It is also important for them to continue learning and keep up with advancements on the job.
One way to incentivize continuing education for electricians is through licensure. Below, we explore the licensure requirements for electricians in Nebraska.
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Electrical licenses in Nebraska are divided into several categories, including journeyman, class B journeyman, residential journeyman, class A master electrician, class B master electrician, electrical contractor, and class B electrical contractor licenses.
Candidates typically start with the journeyman electrician license, which they can acquire after 3 - 4 years of learning under a licensed master electrician. Of course, they must apply and pass a licensing examination.
Journeyman electricians with four more years of experience may acquire the master electrician license.
Master electrician license holders or graduates of four-year electrical technology courses may become electrical contractors in the state.
Top Electrician Schools in Nebraska
Candidates may look to the following schools for comprehensive training as future electricians in Nebraska.
Metropolitan Community College
Omaha, NE Campus Only
Metropolitan Community College offers an associate degree program in electrical technology for interested candidates nationwide.
Tuition
$68 - $102 per CreditContact
(531) 622-4004
mvaughan@mccneb.edu
Central Community College
Grand Island, NE Campus Only
At Central Community College, candidates may participate in an associate degree program and complete their education in 2 years.
Tuition
$96 - $144 per ProgramContact
(877) 222-0780
kwert@cccneb.edu
Northeast Community College
Norfolk, NE Campus Only
Candidates who study at Northeast Community College in Norfolk can earn an associate degree in Electrical Construction and Control.
Tuition
$108 - $151 per ProgramContact
(402) 371-2020
help@northeast.edu
Explore electrician schools in Nebraska by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Electricians in Nebraska have the potential to earn an annual average salary of around $93,477 or more. However, they can only do so once they have successfully optimized their earnings to be among the top 10% in the state.
First, most people tend to fall among the bottom 10% or the midpoint earners. Those among the former manage an annual average salary of $51,769, while those in the latter category take home around $69,565 in average returns at the end of every year.
Location is a prominent factor determining the annual average salary of an electrician in Nebraska. Based on annual returns, the most favorable destinations include North Platte, with an annual average salary of $83,282, and Grand Island, with an annual average salary of $75,752.
Lincoln is also notable at a figure of $71,397 per year.
Other than location, factors such as experience, credentials, specialty roles, and employer also impact these figures.