As technologies continue to evolve at a rapid pace, the demand for skilled electrical technicians to install, maintain, and repair complex electrical systems is higher than ever.
In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at 10 of the highest paying electrical technician careers and explore what it takes to break into these lucrative roles.
Here are the Top 10 Highest Paid Electrical Technician Careers of 2024
1. Nuclear Plant Technician
Average Salary: $85,000
Nuclear plant technicians work on the infrastructure that powers nuclear energy facilities. They install, test, maintain and repair complex electrical systems that are critical for safety. Given the sensitive nature of their work, nuclear plant technicians require extensive training and hold one of the most well-compensated jobs as an electrical technician.
To become a nuclear plant technician, you’ll need an associate’s degree in electronics, nuclear technology or a related field. Most entry-level positions also require 1-3 years of experience as an industrial electrician or maintenance technician. The best way to gain this experience is through an apprenticeship program sponsored by your local electricians union.
Nuclear plant technicians are responsible for conducting routine inspections, performing preventative maintenance to ensure systems are functioning properly, and dealing with any emergencies or equipment failures quickly and safely. Given the hazardous environment, technicians must have excellent troubleshooting skills, be highly safety-conscious, and able to follow detailed procedures.
In addition to competitive pay, nuclear plant technician roles offer excellent benefits and the opportunity to advance into supervisory positions with experience. It’s one of the most stable and rewarding careers for electrical technicians.
2. Railroad Signal Technician
Average Salary: $80,000
Railroad signal technicians install, repair and maintain the electrical signal systems that control train traffic on railroad networks. They are responsible for ensuring critical signaling infrastructure like switches, grade crossings and train detection systems operate smoothly and safely.
Most railroad companies require signal technicians to have an associate’s degree in electronics or a related field. Apprenticeship programs are also common, allowing technicians to earn while they learn directly from experienced employees. Technicians must obtain various specialized certifications from the Federal Railroad Administration to work on railroad signaling systems.
The job involves a mix of office work, field service calls and working outdoors near active train tracks. Technicians use electronic test equipment to troubleshoot faults, make repairs efficiently and document all work. Given railroads operate 24/7, technicians may work irregular schedules including weekends, nights and holidays.
Career advancement opportunities exist in management roles overseeing signal maintenance projects or training new technicians. Railroad signal technician positions are well-compensated due to their critical safety function and irregular work hours. Benefits are also typically excellent in the railroad industry.
3. Elevator Mechanic
Average Salary: $79,000
Elevator mechanics, also known as elevator constructors or service technicians, specialize in installing, maintaining and repairing elevators, escalators and other conveyance systems. As vertical transportation becomes more advanced with features like destination dispatching, the technical skills required of elevator mechanics are increasing.
Most employers require elevator mechanics to have completed a four-year apprenticeship program through a labor union like the International Union of Elevator Constructors. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom education in mechanics, electronics, welding and OSHA safety standards. Most states also require an elevator mechanic license.
The work involves tasks like installing new elevator systems, performing preventative maintenance checks, responding to entrapment calls, and modernizing older equipment. Mechanics use blueprints, technical manuals and diagnostic tools to analyze issues. Given the risks of working on conveyance equipment, safety is the top priority.
Experienced elevator mechanics can eventually become field supervisors overseeing installation and service projects. Company owners can also start their own independent elevator contracting businesses. Due to specialized skills, ongoing training demands and safety responsibilities, elevator mechanics enjoy high earning potential.
4. Biomedical Equipment Technician
Average Salary: $77,000
As medical technology advances, biomedical equipment technicians play a vital role in maintaining complex machines throughout hospitals and clinics. They install, calibrate, troubleshoot and repair an array of devices like MRI and CT scanners, ultrasound machines, ventilators and more.
Most biomedical equipment technician roles require an associate’s degree in biomedical or electrical engineering technology. certifications from organizations like the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation are also valued. Hands-on experience is often gained through internships during college or a hospital-sponsored training program post-graduation.
Technicians use technical schematics, manuals and diagnostic software to service a wide range of medical equipment. They work closely with clinical staff to minimize disruptions and address issues efficiently. Excellent communication skills are necessary to understand user needs. Strict sterile protocols must also be followed when servicing devices used in surgery or intensive care.
5. Instrumentation and Controls Technician
Average Salary: $76,000
Instrumentation and controls technicians work in industrial facilities to test, calibrate, maintain and repair automated control systems and the sensors, valves, pumps and other field devices they control. Common industries employing these technicians include oil and gas production, power generation, manufacturing and water treatment.
A two-year associate’s degree in instrumentation technology or industrial electrical engineering is typical for entry-level positions. Manufacturer-sponsored or union apprenticeships that combine hands-on rotations with classroom coursework are also valuable training paths. Technicians must have a strong background in electronics, control theory and industrial protocols like HART, Fieldbus and Profibus.
Day to day work involves tasks like loop checking PLC and DCS I/O modules, calibrating transmitters, configuring HMIs and addressing control issues. Technicians use multimeters, vibration analyzers and other test instruments alongside control schematics and simulation software. They must have an aptitude for troubleshooting complex integrated systems.
6. Avionics Technician
Average Salary: $74,000
Avionics technicians specialize in the electronics systems that power aircraft navigation, communications and other flight functions. They install, integrate, test and repair equipment components on everything from private planes to large commercial jets.
Entry into the field usually requires completing a Federal Aviation Administration approved training program, which takes 1-2 years. Programs teach technical subjects like digital electronics, aircraft wiring techniques and installing avionics equipment to FAA airworthiness standards. Many technicians gain initial experience through a manufacturer internship or apprenticeship.
Day to day work is performed both in aircraft hangars and avionics shops. Technicians use test equipment, schematics and wiring diagrams to troubleshoot avionics systems, replace faulty line replaceable units, update software and ensure all modifications are properly documented. Airworthiness certification is required for any installation or modification work.
7. Telecommunications Technician
Average Salary: $72,000
Telecommunications technicians install, service and maintain the infrastructure that delivers data, voice and video services to both commercial and residential customers via fiber optic, copper and wireless networks. They maintain critical network infrastructure for Internet, phone and cable TV providers.
Associate’s degrees in fields like network technology, telecommunications or electronics engineering are common starting points. Hands-on experience is gained through cable company field technician roles, where technicians climb poles and ladders to address service issues. Certifications like Fiber Optics Installer (FOI) demonstrate telecom technical proficiency.
Day to day work involves tasks like analyzing trouble tickets, using test equipment to diagnose connectivity problems, replacing network hardware in COs and node sites, splicing fiber optic cable, configuring routers and switches as networks are expanded. Telecom techs need ladder and aerial lift certifications to safely access utility poles and underground infrastructure.
8. Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Average Salary: $45,000 – $55,000
As renewable energy systems become more widespread, solar photovoltaic installers play a key role deploying rooftop and large-scale solar panel arrays across the United States. They assemble, install and maintain photovoltaic systems on residential, commercial and utility-scale solar farms.
A one-year training program in solar installation from a technical college or manufacturer is common. Apprenticeships through the Department of Labor’s Solar Registered Apprenticeship Programs provide paid on-the-job training in solar fundamentals.
9. Manufacturing Technician
Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000
Manufacturing technicians work in electronics, industrial equipment, and automotive plants troubleshooting, maintaining, and improving production processes. They install, test, operate, and repair automated systems like robots, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), motor controls, conveyors, and computers that automate assembly lines.
Manufacturing technician programs are available at technical colleges in fields like mechatronics, robotics, and process automation technology. Hands-on training is provided through internships and apprenticeships with manufacturers.
Technicians analyze issues using schematics, manuals, and diagnostic software. They program and configure PLCs and HMIs, calibrate sensors and actuators, set up machines and perform preventative maintenance to minimize downtime.
10. Wind Turbine Technician
Average Salary: $52,000 – $62,000
As wind power rapidly expands across the US, wind turbine technicians are in high demand to maintain the massive turbines generating renewable energy. They install, inspect, troubleshoot, and repair utility-scale wind turbines both onshore and offshore.
Entry-level wind turbine technicians complete a certificate or associate’s degree in fields like wind energy technology, renewable energy, or electrical engineering. RotorSafety Level 1 certification demonstrates core safety and technical skills.
Techs conduct preventative maintenance through scheduled inspections climbing towers via internal ladders or external lifts. They diagnose electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic issues using laptops and specialized tools. Emergency repairs are conducted to minimize downtime.
Wrapping Up
In summary, the 10 highest paying careers for electrical technicians demand specialized skills working with complex systems critical to industries like energy production, manufacturing, aviation and telecommunications.
With specialized training and certifications, technicians have excellent long-term career prospects in these stable, high-paying fields. I hope this guide helps anyone interested in exploring these lucrative opportunities as an electrical technician professional.