For many technicians, working with low voltage is a great way to start their careers. It can be a steppingstone to getting into the electrical industry and can provide good job prospects and earning potential. On the other hand, sitting with low voltage does not limit your career opportunities in any real way. You do not have to plan to get additional licensing, further your education, or switch from job to job frequently in order to earn a comfortable living.

Job Outlook in the Low Voltage Industry

Projected employment numbers for electricians over the next few years until 2031 show slightly higher than average growth projections. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 79,900 job openings for electricians open every year.

While this looks great on the surface, it is important to note that this is for all electricians and not just low-voltage technicians alone. By any other measure from a diverse range of sources, the outlook for the electrical industry looks bright. It makes sense. Every single building is filled with plugged in or wireless devices, security and alarm systems, local network hardware, and gadgets. The need for more functionality and connectivity is not going away anytime soon. These are the specific types of projects handled by low voltage technicians in both residential and commercial settings.

Pros and Cons of Starting a Career in Low Voltage

If you are considering a job as a low voltage technician, you need to explore both the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Luckily, there are many more advantages today to choosing this path in the electrical industry.

Affordable training can get you started more quickly than you expect. One of the main advantages is that it is an entry-level position. This means that you do not need to have any experience in the field to get started. Local and online training can help you get certified and learn many of the necessary skills. In-person apprenticeships with specific companies are available in most locations. Job placement can also put you in contact with organizations eager to train new skilled workers.

Another advantage of this career is that it has a great reputation. Low voltage technicians are highly respected, and their skills are in high demand. This means that they can earn a good salary and have job security. Of course, this depends on your ability to do the tasks successfully. Hard work always has its rewards. Providing skilled technical services to a variety of clients offers more prestige than most other types of jobs you can get straight out of high school or after a break in your education or working life.

However, there are also some drawbacks to working in the low voltage industry that should be considered before making it a long-term career. Like all other physical trade jobs, it can be tough on your body over the long term. While injury due to electricity is rare because of the lower voltages encountered, you may still get sore joints and back from the constant movement and positioning.

This is merely a comparison between two electrical industry options, however. The job outlook for any electrical work still remains high as more people and businesses rely on connectivity and power for everything. Job growth statistics are favorable, the yearly salary will support you comfortably in most parts of the country, and you always have opportunities to expand and grow.

Earnings Potential as a Low Voltage Technician

Low voltage salary levels are expected to grow over time and remain competitive in the larger market. Specific numbers depend a lot on where you live in the country. Of course, higher cost of living (COL) areas tend to have higher earning potential, too. You will also find more available jobs there.

Average hourly earnings for low voltage technicians range from $18 to $30 per hour. The average annual salary in the United States for this job description is $52,000 according to Indeed 2022 research. General electricians bring in more, with an average of $58,000 across the country. What factors affect this? Mostly, the changes in hourly rate and available overtime depend on location, training and licensing, and how many years you have on the job.

Low voltage careers offer good earnings and many job opportunities to choose from. The outlook for the industry also looks very bright. As more companies and individuals rely on digital communication, wired and wireless systems, local networks, and more, skilled technicians can explore different avenues of success. Get the necessary training, prepare to work hard, and you can succeed as a low voltage technician.