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If you're aiming to launch a career in the electrical trade in Jacksonville, FL, you'll need certification or a license to work unsupervised, which typically involves completing a four-year apprenticeship and passing exams, with costs varying from program fees to exam expenses. The process takes about four to five years, including on-the-job training and classroom hours, leading to salaries averaging $55,120 annually and strong job growth of 11% nationally and 14% in Florida by 2030. Use Gild to explore apprenticeships, check out Tulsa Welding School for quick training options, and get started on this high-demand path with opportunities in construction and infrastructure projects.
Before embarking on this career, it's crucial to grasp what electricians do in Jacksonville, FL. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, including wiring, lighting, and power systems, often working on projects like new constructions or infrastructure upgrades driven by the region's booming growth. For more details on electrician roles, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Yes, you need a license to work as an electrician in Jacksonville, FL, where Florida requires either a registered or certified electrician license to perform unsupervised work. Certified licenses, which are statewide, demand more experience and allow work across Florida, while registered licenses are local and have fewer requirements12. Always check with the Construction Trades Qualifying Board for the latest rules; you can find more information on licensing at Florida Jobs.
In Jacksonville, FL, electrical apprenticeships typically last four to five years, combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, as required by Florida regulations of at least 144 hours per year. Here's a breakdown of common apprenticeship terms based on available programs:
| Apprenticeship Role | Term (in Years) | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Apprenticeship | 4 | 576+ classroom hours, hands-on work |
| Specialized Programs (e.g., Solar) | 4-5 | Additional certifications like OSHA |
To find an apprenticeship, start with Gild for listings, explore programs like those from the Electrical Training Alliance3, or check Tulsa Welding School for hands-on options. Joining a union, such as IBEW, can also provide access to structured opportunities with benefits like health insurance and pensions4.
To begin, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and demonstrate basic skills in math and English. Physical fitness is essential for the hands-on nature of the work, and programs often require aptitude tests to ensure you're prepared for electrical trade demands1. For salary insights, review ZipRecruiter.
While not always mandatory, enrolling in a program like the one at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) can build your foundation, offering courses in AC/DC theory, blueprint reading, and the National Electrical Code over about eight months. This step provides hands-on experience and can lead to credits for further education, helping you stand out in the competitive Jacksonville market4.
An apprenticeship is the core of your training, lasting four years with a mix of work and classes, where you'll earn while you learn, starting at around $18.16/hour and rising to $35.60/hour upon completion3. Use Gild to search for openings in Jacksonville, or contact local unions for programs that offer benefits and certification upon finishing2.
After your apprenticeship, apply for a journeyman electrician license by documenting at least four years of experience and passing an exam with at least a 75% score on topics like the National Electrical Code and local building codes4. Submit your application to the Construction Trades Qualifying Board at least 30 days before exam dates, and consider the option for a certified license if you plan statewide work; learn more at PayScale1.
Once licensed, explore advancement like becoming a master electrician, which requires additional experience and exams, opening doors to higher salaries over $81,000 and roles in specialized areas like renewable energy1. With Jacksonville's job growth at 14% by 2030, ongoing education through programs at FSCJ or ETAJAX can keep you competitive3.
Starting an electrical trade career in Jacksonville, FL, in 2025 offers strong salaries averaging $55,120 and abundant opportunities in a growing market, but it demands commitment to training and licensing. Whether you're new to the field or switching careers, use Gild to find apprenticeships, explore BuildForce for wage guides, and take the first step toward a rewarding profession in construction and infrastructure. As demand rises with projects like JAXPORT expansions, your skills will be in high demand—get started today and build a stable future in this essential trade.
https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Electrical_Contractor/Salary/e3137b98/Jacksonville-FL ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.tws.edu/blog/skilled-trades/the-growing-demand-for-electricians-in-florida/ ↩ ↩2
https://vanguardelectricalcontractors.com/Electricians-Age-Workforce-Study-4z2x1p ↩ ↩2 ↩3
How Much to Pay Electricians in 2025: A Complete Guide ↩ ↩2 ↩3
