There are already many successful electricians in Alabama, but of course, there remains a huge demand for many more. If you are a state resident with a penchant for electronic components, a career in the field may be just what you’ve been looking for.
To become an electrician in Alabama, you must follow some steps that are common for electricians in every state and some that are peculiar to electricians only in Alabama.
Figuring out these distinctions can be tricky, so we have provided below an in-depth article containing everything you need to know about launching your career. This includes the most important steps, the notable certification and licensing requirements, and the expected salary.
How to Become an Electrician in Alabama
Aspiring electricians in Alabama may follow the steps below to begin their careers on the right track.
Step 1: Basic Requirements
Candidates in Alabama should have a solid understanding of basic mathematics and physics to make it easier to secure admission into a training program and throughout their careers.
A high school diploma or GED is also needed for the same purpose.
Step 2: Technical Training
Aspiring electricians in Alabama may choose to attend an academic program to earn a certificate or associate degree. This will help them stand out in the employment market.
Academic programs may last for weeks or years, depending on the degree in sight.
Step 3: On-the-job Training
After attending a technical school, or instead of attending one, candidates may choose to acquire training on the job. Trade unions and professional organizations usually offer this kind of opportunity, typically as an apprenticeship.
During this time, candidates will spend much time working in real-world scenarios with their hands on actual tools and equipment. They will also get a chance to learn and be mentored by established professionals in the field.
Step 4: Specialization & Employment
After completing the steps above, candidates may obtain proper licenses/certifications and secure employment.
While an electrician in Alabama can work on various components spanning various field sectors, specializing offers many benefits, including better employment opportunities and career growth.
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Alabama has two types of electrical licensure: the journeyman license and the contractor license. Employed professionals need A journeyman license to carry out their trade under someone else’s business. In contrast, an electrical contractor license is needed for those who wish to branch out and start their businesses or work as independent electrical contractors.
To become a journeyman electrician, candidates must submit an affidavit to the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board and schedule an examination with a $115 application fee. Journeyman electricians who wish to become electrical contractors must pay $165 in examination fees, pass the electrical contractor exam, and pay a $150 registration fee to pick up their license.
Learn about electrician licensing and certification in neighboring states:
Top Electrician Schools in Alabama
The following are some of the most prominent electrician schools in Alabama.
Shelton State Community College
Tuscaloosa, AL Online + Campus
At Shelton State Community College, candidates may enroll in a robust certificate program that can be completed in one year. They also have a chance to receive a more comprehensive education through an associate in an applied science program that takes two years to complete.
Tuition
$2,520 - $8,730Contact
admissions@sheltonstate.edu
(205) 391-2211
Lawson State Community College
Birmingham, AL Online + Campus
Lawson State Community College offers an electrical technology program with a small class size of 10 - 20 students. The program lasts for a year.
Tuition
$4,920 - $8,670Contact
admissions@lawsonstate.edu
(205) 925-2515
Wallace Community College
Dothan, AL Online + Campus
Lastly, candidates may acquire their training at Wallace Community College, accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). They'll learn about technical communication, blueprint reading, safety, electricity, and wiring there.
Tuition
$4,920 - $22,720Contact
admissions@wallacestate.edu
(334) 983-3521
Explore Electrician Schools by City:
Salary & Career Outlook
While several factors influence how much an electrician in Alabama takes home every year, the most important are experience, location, credentials, specialization, and the establishment of employment.
A survey of state professionals shows that an average electrician in Alabama earns an annual salary of around $53,433; those in the top 10% take home an annual average salary of $100,169.
In comparison, the bottom 10% manage an annual average salary of around $28,503.
Sorting only by location, Huntsville is the city with the highest pay for electricians in Alabama. Electricians here earn an annual average salary of $75,527. Decatur and Phenix City follow it with annual average salaries of $72,468 and $64,773, respectively.
Birmingham and Mobile join the top five of the highest-paying cities to work as electricians in Alabama, with annual average salaries of $58,492 and $58,098, respectively.