The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates the demand for electricians will increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032. An average of approximately 73,500 openings are projected each year over the decade.
The increasing demand for electricians is substantially driven by the growing use of mobile devices, machines, buildings, and electric vehicles. As a result, more electricians are needed to install and maintain electrical systems.
Increasing Demand for Electricians
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the median age of electricians in 2022 was 40.8. This data shows that over 20% of these professionals are nearing retirement age. However, not enough electrician apprentices are training to replace the retirees.
A 2021 Tallo survey found that only 16.7% of Gen Z high school and college students were interested in construction-related careers such as residential or commercial electricians. Because most students desired remote work options and flexible schedules, they preferred careers outside of skilled labor.
Connecting with Skilled Electricians Can Be Difficult
The 2022 Workforce Survey by Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) found that 79% of firms were struggling to hire electricians. The main reasons included a lack of qualified candidates, the desire for flexible work options, and difficulty securing reliable transportation to and from work.
Electricians require unique skill sets that include electrical expertise, knowledge of electrical equipment, and the ability to troubleshoot complex electrical systems. Therefore, the limited number of professionals with these skills increases the competitive nature of recruitment.
The high demand for electricians makes retention difficult. These professionals often receive more competitive job offers elsewhere and decide to work for other companies.
Tips to Attract Skilled Electricians
Sharing detailed job postings helps attract experienced electricians. Review the project needs, then include the following information in the postings:
- The types of projects the company takes on, including examples of recently finished projects
- Whether a part- or full-time electrician is needed
- Whether an apprentice, journeyman, or master electrician is desired
Ask electrician employees for referrals:
- Employees likely know other electricians who have the necessary qualifications and would fit with the company’s culture.
- Referrals can be fast-tracked through the hiring process and begin onboarding and training in a short amount of time.
- Employee referrals tend to remain long-term because they know someone within the organization.
Ask interview questions about each candidate’s experience, current job duties and responsibilities, and reasons for wanting a new role. Also, include open-ended questions that focus on safety protocols, problem-solving, and decision-making. These questions might focus on:
- Licensing and certifications held
- Training programs completed
- Ability to maintain compliance with safety protocols
- Methods to stay current with the electrical codes and regulations
- Types of projects worked on
Work with a staffing agency that specializes in placing electricians:
- The agency has a vast, deep network of qualified electricians.
- You meet with a recruiter to discuss your hiring needs in depth.
- You interview a few qualified, vetted candidates.
- You extend a job offer to the chosen candidate.
- The recruiter negotiates the job offer on the candidate’s behalf.
- The recruiter regularly follows up to ensure complete satisfaction.
- If the new hire does not meet your requirements, you can replace them at no cost.
Partner with SitePro Solutions
Work with SitePro Solutions to find qualified electricians to fit your business needs. Start the process with our Nationwide staffing team today.