Ibew Local 20 Pay Scale: A Comprehensive Guide
The pay scale for electricians under the IBEW Local 20 collective bargaining agreement is an important factor when considering a career as an electrician in the Pacific Northwest. As you research whether pursuing an electrical apprenticeship with IBEW Local 20 is right for you, understanding the pay scale can help you determine if it aligns with your financial goals.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Journeyman electricians at IBEW Local 20 typically start at around $44 per hour, while foremen can make $49 per hour or more, depending on experience. Apprentices usually start at 50-60% of journeyman pay.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the hourly wages, benefits, and pay bumps that come with advancing from apprentice to journeyman electrician and beyond at IBEW Local 20. We’ll also look at how the Local 20 pay compares to national averages and scales in other major cities.
Let’s dive in!
Pay Scale for Apprentices
Becoming an apprentice with Ibew Local 20 can be a great opportunity to start a rewarding career in the electrical industry. As an apprentice, you will receive on-the-job training and gain valuable experience while earning a competitive wage. Let’s take a closer look at the pay scale for apprentices:
Apprentice Wage Progression
Throughout your apprenticeship, you can expect to see steady wage increases as you gain more experience and knowledge in the field. Ibew Local 20 follows a structured wage progression system, ensuring that your hard work and dedication are rewarded.
As you reach specific milestones in your apprenticeship, you can expect to see your wage increase accordingly.
Typical Apprentice Starting Wage
When you begin your apprenticeship with Ibew Local 20, you can expect to start at a competitive wage. While the exact starting wage may vary depending on factors such as location and industry demand, the typical apprentice starting wage is around $15 to $20 per hour.
This starting wage provides a solid foundation for your career growth and sets you on a path towards earning a higher income as you progress through your apprenticeship.
Pay Increases
As you gain experience and complete certain milestones in your apprenticeship, you can expect to receive regular pay increases. These pay increases are designed to reflect your growing skills and expertise in the electrical industry.
It’s important to note that the specific pay increase amounts and timing may vary depending on the terms of your apprenticeship agreement.
It’s worth mentioning that the pay scale for apprentices can differ from one local union to another. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about the pay scale for apprentices with Ibew Local 20, it’s recommended to visit their official website at www.ibew20.org or contact the union directly.
Becoming an apprentice with Ibew Local 20 not only provides you with the opportunity to earn a competitive wage but also offers valuable training and experience that will set you on a path towards a successful career in the electrical industry.
Journeyman Electrician Pay Scale
Being a journeyman electrician is a highly skilled and rewarding career path. One of the crucial aspects that professionals in this field often consider is the pay scale. Let’s take a closer look at the different components that make up the pay scale for journeyman electricians.
Base Hourly Pay Rate
The base hourly pay rate for journeyman electricians is an important factor to consider. This rate typically varies based on factors such as location, level of experience, and the specific employer. In general, journeyman electricians can expect a base hourly pay rate ranging from $25 to $40 per hour.
However, it’s important to note that this is just a rough estimate and can vary significantly.
Average Total Compensation
When assessing the pay scale for journeyman electricians, it’s crucial to consider the average total compensation. This includes not only the base hourly pay rate but also additional benefits and perks offered by the employer.
These can include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and more. The average total compensation for journeyman electricians can range from $60,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on various factors.
Premium Pay Opportunities
In addition to the base hourly pay rate and average total compensation, journeyman electricians often have access to premium pay opportunities. These opportunities can include overtime pay, holiday pay, and bonuses.
Overtime pay is particularly common in this field, as electrical projects often require extra hours to meet deadlines. This can significantly increase a journeyman electrician’s earning potential.
It’s important to note that pay scales can vary based on factors such as industry, union affiliation, and geographical location. For more detailed and accurate information, it’s recommended to refer to official sources such as the website of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 20.
They provide comprehensive information on pay scales and other important aspects of the electrician profession.
Foreman and General Foreman Pay
When it comes to the pay scale for foremen and general foremen in Ibew Local 20, it is important to understand the different factors that contribute to their hourly wages and salaries. Foremen and general foremen play crucial roles in overseeing construction projects and ensuring that work is completed efficiently and according to specifications.
Let’s take a closer look at the pay rates for these positions and the responsibilities and requirements associated with them.
Foreman Hourly Wage
Foremen in Ibew Local 20 typically earn a competitive hourly wage that reflects their expertise and experience in the electrical industry. The exact hourly wage can vary based on factors such as location, project type, and the individual’s level of experience.
On average, foremen can expect to earn a wage of around $30 to $40 per hour.
General Foreman Pay Rate
General foremen are responsible for overseeing multiple crews and ensuring the smooth execution of complex electrical projects. As a result, their pay rate is often higher than that of regular foremen.
General foremen in Ibew Local 20 can expect to earn a higher hourly wage, typically ranging from $40 to $50 per hour. This increased pay reflects the added responsibilities and leadership skills required for this role.
Responsibilities and Requirements
Both foremen and general foremen have important responsibilities on construction sites. They are responsible for supervising and coordinating the activities of electrical workers, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, and maintaining quality standards.
They also play a crucial role in managing the workflow and addressing any issues that may arise during the project.
To qualify for these positions, individuals must typically have several years of experience working as electricians and possess excellent leadership and communication skills. They must also have a strong understanding of electrical systems and be able to interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
In addition, foremen and general foremen are often required to hold relevant certifications and licenses.
For more detailed information on the pay scale for foremen and general foremen in Ibew Local 20, you can visit the official Ibew Local 20 website at www.ibew20.org. This website provides comprehensive information about the union, including pay rates, benefits, and training opportunities.
How IBEW Local 20 Pay Compares to Other Regions
vs. National Averages
Electricians working under IBEW Local 20 generally earn higher wages than the national averages for electricians in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for electricians nationwide is $56,180 per year as of May 2021.[1] In comparison, IBEW Local 20 journeyman electricians earn a base rate of $48.70 per hour, which translates to around $101,000 per year.[2] That’s nearly double the national median.
This significant pay difference highlights the strong union representation and collective bargaining power of IBEW Local 20 members.
Some key factors that allow Local 20 electricians to command higher wages than national averages include:
- Cost of living – The San Francisco Bay Area has an exceptionally high cost of living compared to most of the country, driving wages higher.
- Union strength – Local 20 has over 3,000 members, giving it leverage in negotiating favorable contracts.
- Industry demand – The tech sector and construction boom in the Bay Area leads to high demand for skilled electricians.
vs. Other Major Cities
Compared to other major U.S. cities, IBEW Local 20 wages tend to be on the higher end, but not the absolute highest. For example, IBEW Local 3 in New York City has a journeyman electrician rate of $63 per hour, compared to $48.70 for Local 20.[3] However, the cost of living in San Francisco is 36% higher than in New York City.[4] Adjusted for cost of living, Local 20 wages go further.
Here’s how Local 20 pay compares to other major metros:
| IBEW Local | Journeyman Base Rate | Metro Area |
|---|---|---|
| Local 3 | $63.00/hour | New York, NY |
| Local 20 | $48.70/hour | San Francisco, CA |
| Local 11 | $46.55/hour | Los Angeles, CA |
| Local 134 | $46.54/hour | Chicago, IL |
While not at the absolute top, Local 20 offers excellent wages with strong union protection, especially when factoring in the Bay Area’s exceptionally high cost of living.
Benefits for IBEW Local 20 Electricians
Working as an electrician for IBEW Local 20 comes with a range of benefits that are designed to support and protect its members. These benefits not only enhance the overall compensation package but also provide essential resources for a secure future.
Let’s explore some of the key benefits that electricians in IBEW Local 20 enjoy:
Healthcare
IBEW Local 20 recognizes the importance of providing its members with comprehensive healthcare coverage. Electricians and their families have access to a comprehensive healthcare plan that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.
This ensures that members can receive the necessary medical treatments and preventive care to maintain their well-being.
Through negotiated agreements with healthcare providers, IBEW Local 20 ensures that its members have access to a wide network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals. This allows electricians to choose the healthcare professionals that best meet their needs.
The healthcare benefits provided by IBEW Local 20 are designed to protect the physical and financial health of its members.
Pension
One of the significant advantages of being an electrician in IBEW Local 20 is the pension plan. Electricians can contribute a portion of their income towards a pension fund, which is then invested and grows over time. This ensures that members have a reliable source of income after retirement.
The IBEW Local 20 pension plan is designed to provide financial security to its retirees. The amount received upon retirement is based on factors such as years of service and average earnings. By offering a pension plan, IBEW Local 20 acknowledges the hard work and dedication of its members and provides them with a means to enjoy their retirement years comfortably.
Supplemental Benefits
In addition to healthcare and pension benefits, IBEW Local 20 also offers a range of supplemental benefits to its members. These benefits are designed to provide additional support and ensure the well-being of electricians and their families. Some of the supplemental benefits may include:
- Life insurance coverage to provide financial protection for members and their loved ones.
- Disability insurance to provide income replacement in case of a work-related injury or illness.
- Education and training programs to help electricians further develop their skills and stay updated with industry advancements.
- Employee assistance programs to provide support and resources for personal and mental health issues.
These supplemental benefits demonstrate IBEW Local 20’s commitment to the overall well-being and success of its members. By offering these additional resources, the union ensures that its electricians have the necessary support to thrive both personally and professionally.
For more information on the benefits provided by IBEW Local 20, you can visit their official website: https://www.ibewlocal20.org/.
Conclusion
While completing a 5-year IBEW Local 20 apprenticeship requires dedication, the excellent pay, benefits, and job stability electricians receive make it an attractive career path for many. The earning potential only increases as you progress from apprentice to journeyman and eventually foreman or project manager.
The pay scale negotiated by IBEW Local 20 provides a comfortable living wage and competitive compensation compared to national averages and other major cities. With the security of scheduled pay bumps and a solid benefits package, Local 20 electricians can grow their skills while providing for themselves and their families.
If you’re located in Oregon or Washington and thinking about a career in the skilled trades, IBEW Local 20 provides excellent electrical training, career advancement, and wages over the long-term. With the details on apprentice, journeyman, and foreman pay at your fingertips, you can make an informed decision about pursuing electrical work with IBEW Local 20.
