Electricians have one of the most important jobs in the world!
With how reliant on technology we are these days, living without power is impossible, and electricians are the ones who ensure that we always have access to it.
And even as more and more people show interest in pursuing this career path, there’s still plenty of room for newcomers in the industry.
So, if you’re interested in becoming an electrician as well, keep reading to find out how to become an electrician in Maine!
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Electrician Job Duties and Skills in Maine
So, you have an interest in becoming an electrician in Maine, but you’re wondering what skills are needed to excel in the profession.
GovernmentJobs.com states that electricians can expect to:
- Diagnose electrical problems and determine appropriate methods of repair.
- Estimate the cost of labor and materials.
- Complete projects according to blueprints, plans, or schematics.
- Prepare and keep records of the time and materials used.
- Lead and instruct lesser-skilled workers.
Electricians should possess basic math skills, the patience, and empathy needed to perform customer service duties, and be capable of working well with other people.
On top of all that, of course, electricians should be able to install wires, outlets, and circuit breakers and stay up to date on safety protocols and electrical codes.
Ultimately, it’s very important to always be willing to learn new information and constantly work to improve your skills as an electrician.
Adaptability is one of the main skills that a successful electrician will possess.
How to Become an Electrician in Maine
If you want to become an electrician in Maine, you’ll need to be patient and persistent in your learning path!
You’ll have to have four years (8000 hours) of electrical work experience and two more years (4000 hours) of work experience before you can even apply for a license.
This may sound intimidating at first but don’t worry.
With the right learning program, you’ll easily gain the appropriate amount of education and working hours!
However, before deciding on which program is right for you, you should figure out what kind of license you want.
Decide Which License You Want to Pursue
Maine offers four different electrician licenses.
You can opt to obtain the Apprentice Electrician License, Limited to Residential License, Journeyman License, or Master Electrician License.
Depending on which one you choose, you’ll need to make sure to pursue a path of education that will satisfy all the licensing requirements.
Attend a Trade School or Technical School
Attending college is the best way to become an electrician in Maine.
You can decide whether you’d prefer to attend a trade school, technical school, vocational school, or community college.
There are many programs available that can prepare you for a career in electrical work, but it’s up to you to decide which one would be best for you!
Training Programs for Electricians in Maine
Here are some institutions in Maine that offer electrical training programs.
Southern Maine Community College
Southern Maine Community College offers the Electrician Technology Certificate.
This program offers the education and training needed to install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical devices and equipment.
According to smccme.edu, “Students explore topics such as basic circuits, wiring practices, electronics, programmable logic controllers, sensors, hydraulics, motors – devices and principles used in all manufacturing processes.
In addition, students are exposed to the practice and regulations of residential and commercial wiring and renewable energy.”
And if you would like to take it a step further and earn a degree, you can pursue the Electrical Engineering Technologies Associate Degree.
Maine Electrical Institute
If you’re looking for the quickest option, Maine Electrical Institute is the fastest way for you to get an electrical education in the state of Maine.
Maine Electrical Institute states that “Maine Electrical Institute is the ideal choice for students who want only the classes needed to become an electrician.
Whether you wish to attend class in-person or work through your courses online, you get the expert lessons and information to achieve a career in the electrical industry.”
Keep in mind that you won’t be able to receive your electrical license immediately after completion.
You’ll still need to reach the work requirements to be eligible for a license–but this program delivers all the necessary educational requirements as quickly as possible!
Eastern Maine Community College
Eastern Maine Community College’s Electrician’s Technology Program is a nine-month-long free program offered through the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan.
According to EMCC, “The program provides a strong electrical/electronic foundation necessary to meet the increasing technological demands of the electrical trade.
Designed for the individual interested in becoming a licensed electrician, this program provides the 576 hours of education needed to meet the licensing requirements of the State of Maine.”
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Southern Maine Community College | 2 Fort Rd, South Portland, ME 04106 |
| Maine Electrical Institute | 320 Presumpscot St, Portland, ME 04103 |
| Eastern Maine Community College | 354 Hogan Rd, Bangor, ME 04401 |
Electrician Salaries in Maine
Becoming an electrician in Maine can be extremely profitable!
Most electricians will make over $50k a year and, most likely, upward of $60k.
Even entry-level electricians can make $30+ an hour!
The amount you’ll earn also depends on your level of education and the kind of license you’ve obtained.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Sanford | $65,690 |
| Portland | $64,366 |
| South Portland | $64,366 |
| Scarborough | $64,366 |
| Biddeford | $64,062 |
| Brunswick | $63,801 |
| Lewiston | $63,713 |
| Auburn | $63,713 |
| Augusta | $61,350 |
| Bangor | $59,640 |
Regional Salary in Maine
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangor, ME | 250 | $57,350 | $27.57 | $79,300 | $35,660 |
| Lewiston-Auburn, ME | 240 | $59,960 | $28.83 | $77,370 | $46,120 |
| Portland-South Portland, ME | 720 | $63,210 | $30.39 | $101,830 | $41,980 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are electricians in demand in Maine?
Yes, they are!
According to Mainepublic.org, a survey of Maine’s clean energy sector indicated that there are not enough electricians to meet the existing demand for them.
Do electricians need a license in Maine?
Yes.
Performing electrical work without a license in Maine is not allowed for any reason.
How much does it cost to become an electrician in Maine?
The majority of electrical students attending a community college or a trade school will be up to $10k for their courses.
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