Electrical Foreman Jobs
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Electrical foreman jobs sit where field work meets field management. A working foreman runs a crew of journeymen and apprentices while still picking up tools when needed. A general foreman oversees multiple crews or phases of a larger project.
Quick Facts
Typical Salary Range
$75,000 to $115,000 per year depending on project size and union status.
Hourly Range
$38 to $58/hr. Foreman scale is typically 10 to 15% above journeyman rate.
Experience Required
Minimum 5 to 8 years in commercial electrical, with at least 1 to 2 years leading crews.
Job Outlook
Strong demand as retiring foremen create leadership gaps across the industry.
Common Employers
Mid-size to large electrical subcontractors, national specialty contractors, design-build firms.
Why Demand Is Strong
The foreman gap is one of the most acute talent problems in commercial electrical contracting. Journeymen can be recruited through apprenticeship pipelines, but developing foreman-ready talent takes years.
Contractors running multiple concurrent projects are pulling foremen from competitors and offering above-scale compensation to retain them.
Commercial jobs have grown more complex, raising the skill bar for anyone in a lead role.
What Employers Are Looking For
- Journeyman license. The baseline credential for a foreman seat.
- Deep NEC knowledge. Familiarity with code requirements for commercial installations.
- Drawing literacy. Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings.
- Take-offs and scheduling. Experience with material take-offs and crew scheduling.
- Communication skills. Strong enough to deal with GC superintendents and inspectors directly.
- OSHA 30. Commonly required, with some employers expecting a master electrician license or progress toward one.
FAQ
What is the difference between a working foreman and a general foreman?
A working foreman runs a crew and still picks up tools, while a general foreman oversees multiple crews or phases of a larger project.
How much do electrical foremen earn?
Typical pay runs $75,000 to $115,000 per year, or $38 to $58/hr, with foreman scale usually 10 to 15% above the journeyman rate.
How much experience do I need to become a foreman?
Most employers want a minimum of 5 to 8 years in commercial electrical, including at least 1 to 2 years leading crews.
What certifications are required?
OSHA 30 is commonly required on top of a journeyman license, and some employers expect a master electrician license or progress toward one.
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