The Risks and Rewards of Working as an Electrician

Imagine a world without the hum of the refrigerator, the glow of streetlights, or the whirring of your gaming console. Sounds bleak, right? That's because electricity isn't just a convenience, it's the lifeblood of the modern world. 

From powering hospitals to literally keeping the lights on for billions of people around the world, the incredible magic of electricity keeps our society going. And who ensures this vital force flows seamlessly in Canada? Electricians.

Working as an electrician can be challenging but this career path also offers plenty of opportunities for success, thus making it one of the most in-demand trades. But before you jump headfirst into this exciting industry, let's shine a light on the risks and rewards of the job.

Keep reading to explore the pros and cons of being an electrician in Canada!

The Pros of Working as an Electrician

When breaking down the pros and cons of being an electrician, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives—there are just so many of them! Here are five “pros” that will help you answer the question, “Is being an electrician worth it?”.

1. High Demand and Job Security

Electricians are consistently in high demand for their services thanks to ongoing construction projects, renovations, and maintenance needs. All of this translates to ample job opportunities and increased stability, making working as an electrician an attractive choice. 

2. Competitive Compensation

Another huge reason to become an electrician is the attractive pay scale. Due to their specialized skills and the technical nature of their work, this skilled trade can earn upwards of $100,000 in a senior position. 

The average electrician in Canada makes almost $70,000, with plenty of room to grow financially with experience. This, coupled with valuable benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off, ensures financial security and peace of mind. Specialization and additional certifications can also further boost your earning potential. 

Read more: 25 Hands-On Jobs That Pay Well 

3. Freedom to Choose Your Path

So, is electrician a good job? The answer is yes if you want to chart your own course. Electrician career options range from residential and commercial work to industrial settings and specialized areas. Plus, there are always going to be opportunities for advancement; it doesn’t just end when you finish your training!

You can leverage your experience and qualifications to climb the ladder—or build your own ladder by getting into teaching and mentoring or even starting your own business. 

4. Government Support and Training

Is being an electrician hard? Yes, and that’s why both the Canadian federal and provincial governments see the importance of nurturing more skilled workers. They offer a range of robust support systems to help you launch and thrive in a career as an electrician. 

With different grants and funding for skilled trades and apprenticeships, you can gain valuable on-the-job training and classroom instruction without getting into debt.

Read more: Government Grants and Deductions for Trades Students

5. Making a Difference

Working as an electrician means helping power infrastructure across all corners of society. You can take pride in helping build and strengthen communities with your own hands. This alone makes the answer to “Is being an electrician worth it?” a resounding yes!

The Cons of Working as an Electrician

Of course, discussing the pros and cons of being an electrician means we also need to discuss the less-than-desirable aspects of the job. Here they are: 

1. Exposure to Physical Hazards

Working with electricity inherently carries risks of shocks, burns, falls, and exposure to harmful materials on a job site. The good news is electrician training in both pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs covers electrical safety in the workplace extensively.

2. Demanding Work Environment

Aside from the potential physical hazards, working as an electrician can also be physically demanding. Lifting heavy equipment, contorting in tight spaces, and working in extreme temperatures or awkward positions are standard fare. You’ll get used to this over time, but hitting the gym might help make the adjustment easier! 

3. Working Long and Irregular Hours

Is electrician a good job? Yes, but you might disagree if you’re more inclined to a nine-to-five job. Overtime, night shifts, and weekend work are normal when working as an electrician, especially during peak seasons or emergencies. 

While it won’t always be easy, you’ll be able to take solace in knowing the work you’re doing matters—and that you’re being paid accordingly! 

4. Licensing and Certification Requirements

To become an electrician, you’ll typically be required to complete apprenticeship programs, pass licensing exams, and maintain certifications, all of which involve time and effort. You won’t become a full-fledged licensed electrician right away! Fortunately, you can work as an electrician apprentice and earn while honing your skills. 

Become an Electrician at Skilled Trades College of Canada

So you’ve learned the pros and cons of being an electrician, felt the spark of interest, and now you’re ready to take the next step. The good news? You don’t need a college degree and can be apprenticeship-ready in as little as 12 weeks with the right training.

Skilled Trades College of Canada isn't just another trade school. Our accelerated pre-apprenticeship courses are designed to prepare you for the next step in your career with a unique 80:20 hands-on-to-classroom-learning ratio. If you’re interested in working as an electrician, this is an essential step in the circuit chain you can’t afford to skip. 

Becoming an electrician starts here. Enrol today!