Union or non-union? This is one of the first decisions you will make as an electrician. Both paths lead to the same journeyman license, but the training, pay, and work experience differ significantly.

Union Electricians (IBEW)

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) represents over 775,000 electrical workers across North America.

Pros of IBEW

• Higher Pay: Union electricians typically earn 10-30% more than non-union counterparts. IBEW journeymen in major cities often earn $45-60/hour.
• Better Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, pension plans, and annuities. Benefits are negotiated collectively.
• Free Training: Apprenticeship classroom training is typically free, paid for by the union and contractors.
• Job Security: The hiring hall system provides a safety net between jobs.
• Strong Network: Access to jobs across the country through the union network.

Cons of IBEW

• Competitive Entry: JATC programs are competitive. You may need to reapply or wait for openings.
• Less Flexibility: Work is assigned through the hiring hall. You have less control over where and when you work.
• Dues: Monthly union dues (typically 1-2% of wages).
• Politics: Union decisions are made democratically, which can be slow or frustrating.

Non-Union Electricians

Non-union electricians work for independent contractors and may train through organizations like the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) or Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).

Pros of Non-Union

• Easier Entry: Fewer applicants means faster acceptance into apprenticeship programs.
• More Control: Choose your employer directly. Negotiate your own pay.
• Flexibility: Some programs offer night and weekend classes for those already working.
• Entrepreneurial Path: May be easier to start your own business.

Cons of Non-Union

• Lower Starting Pay: Apprentice pay is often 20-30% less than union programs.
• Training Costs: You may pay $1,000-5,000 for classroom training.
• Benefits Vary: Health insurance and retirement depend entirely on your employer.
• Less Job Security: No hiring hall between jobs.

Pay Comparison

Experience Level	Union (IBEW)	Non-Union
1st Year Apprentice	$22-28/hr	$15-20/hr
4th Year Apprentice	$35-45/hr	$25-32/hr
Journeyman	$45-65/hr	$28-45/hr
Foreman	$50-75/hr	$35-55/hr

Rates vary significantly by region. Major cities have higher union rates.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Union if you:

• Want the highest possible pay and benefits
• Value job security and collective bargaining
• Live in a strong union area (Northeast, Midwest, West Coast)
• Can wait for acceptance and want top-tier training

Choose Non-Union if you:

• Want to start working quickly
• Live in a right-to-work state with limited union presence
• Value flexibility and direct employer relationships
• Plan to start your own business eventually

The Bottom Line

Both paths lead to the same license. A journeyman is a journeyman, union or not. Your choice depends on your local market and career goals.

In strong union areas like New York, Chicago, and California, IBEW offers better pay and benefits. In the South and rural areas, non-union is often the only practical option.

Many electricians switch between union and non-union during their careers. The license is the same either way.