San Diego, CA, presents a rapidly evolving and lucrative pathway for aspiring electricians looking to start or enhance their electrical trade careers in 2025. With over 116 electrician job openings listed on Indeed and 85 positions on ZipRecruiter, San Diego is emerging as a leader in well-paid roles such as Journeyman Electrician, Wastewater Electrical Control Specialist, and Electrical Assistants working on next-gen building and infrastructure systems—explore ZipRecruiter listings here for more details. And, for those who join programs like those offered by IBEW Local 569, the local electrical trade offers high-earning work with benefits, from $20/hour entry roles to $50+/hour for certificated professionals.
In 2025, San Diego is a hotspot for both apprentice-friendly and specialized electrician work, with opportunities expanding across:
Whether you're looking for your first step into the trade or a transition into higher-skilled electrical roles, the San Diego market is growing steadily to absorb both beginner and seasoned electricians in mid-tier centers and specialized sectors.
To take on independent electrical work without supervision in California, a license is required.
Apprentices can work under a licensed journeyman, but to become fully licensed yourself, you must complete an approved electrical trade apprenticeship and pass the state-certified Journeyman Electrician Licensing Exam.
The California Department of Industrial Relations issues licenses, and ongoing learning including 18 continuing education hours per calendar year is mandatory to maintain worker credentials against evolving safety and code practices, including NEC (National Electrical Code) updates 1.
The three licensing tracks for independent work are:
| Track | Requirements | Earnings (Hourly Range) |
|---|---|---|
| Journeyman | 8,000 on-job hours + test | $34 - $53 per hour 2 |
| Specialized Rebuild | 4 years + specialized field training | $40+ per hour |
| Master Electrical Contractor | 2+ years experience past Journeyman | $50 - $80/hour 2 |
In San Diego, the primary route into the trade is through a structured apprenticeship program, which combines paid, hands-on field work with classroom instruction on electrical theory, codes, and blueprints.
Programs such as those offered by the IBEW Local 569 Electrical Training Center provide 4–5-year apprenticeships, featuring:
Join directly through the IBEW San Diego website here
You may also explore the Cal Apprenticeship database for detailed breakdowns of contractor-run learning tracks—check DAS resources.
Beyond high demand and meaningful impact, one of the top attractions in the electrical trade in San Diego is a robust compensation rate:
| Role | Average Hourly Rate | Annual Range (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Electrician | $18 - $30/hour | $38,000 - $60,000 |
| Journeyman Electrician | $34 - $53/hour 2 | $60,000 - $110,000 |
| Master Electrician | $50 - $80/hour | $100,000 - $160,000+ |
Union members and electricians in certified professions often receive health benefits, paid time off, wage progression plans, and pension contributions as part of union contracts. For instance, those registered with IBEW-Sponsored Benefit Funds can receive lifetime health insurance and 401(k) plans 1.
The journey from apprentice to licensed electrician in California requires dual preparation — both practical skill training over 4–5 years, and yearly classroom instructions.
The structure typically follows this pathway:
Total classroom instruction across five years: minimum 720 instructional hours 4.
Upon completion, apprentices proceed to an in-person, written licensing exam, which certifies them as an Independent Journeyman - which may allow the freedom of working independently or opening a sub-contracting entity later on 1.
If you’re ready to start your journey in San Diego’s growing electrical market, jumpstart your opportunity today with the following steps:
With over 127 entry-level electrician jobs open in 2025, and electricians earning $32.12/hour on average across San Diego, your future in this field could begin as early as next month 2. Start researching and applying today.
🎁 Make your first move now by applying to start your career here:
▶ Search Live Electrical Apprenticeships in San Diego on Gild →
