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Entry Level Electrician Jobs in Ridgefield, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Electrician information

See Ridgefield, WA salary details

$12

$27

$50

How much do entry level electrician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level electrician in Ridgefield, WA is $27.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $32.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level electrician?

Entry level electricians are individuals who are just starting their careers in the electrical trade, typically after completing an apprenticeship or vocational training. They assist experienced electricians with installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Their responsibilities often include tasks like running wires, connecting outlets, troubleshooting basic electrical issues, and ensuring safety standards are met. Entry level electricians work under the supervision of licensed electricians as they gain hands-on experience and work toward obtaining their own licenses.

What are the duties and responsibilities of an entry level electrician?

An entry-level electrician works to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems. In this career, your job duties may include making sure that electrical systems and equipment meet building code and safety requirements. As an entry-level electrician, you usually work under the direct or indirect supervision of a more-experienced electrician, who is sometimes known as a “journeyman electrician.” A journeyman electrician needs to have several years of job experience and education. Entry-level electricians are usually working towards this level of expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level electrician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Electrician, you need a basic understanding of electrical theory, wiring, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or completion of an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with hand and power tools, electrical testing equipment, and knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) are essential, and OSHA safety certifications are often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate and work well in a team environment help you stand out. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and code-compliant electrical installations and repairs.

What are the typical challenges faced by entry level electricians during their first year on the job?

Entry level electricians often face challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to interpret complex wiring diagrams, and working efficiently within a team of more experienced tradespeople. The transition from classroom learning to hands-on fieldwork can also be demanding, as it requires quick problem-solving and physical stamina. However, with support from supervisors and ongoing training, most new electricians quickly build confidence and technical skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Electrician vs Apprentice Electrician?

AspectEntry Level ElectricianApprentice Electrician
CertificationsHigh school diploma, may have state-specific licensesEnrolled in apprenticeship program, gaining on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPerforms basic electrical tasks under supervisionUnder supervision, learning trade skills on-site
Industry UsageHired as a beginner electrician, performing entry-level tasksTypically a trainee working towards licensing

While both roles involve electrical work, an Entry Level Electrician is usually a paid worker with some basic certifications, whereas an Apprentice Electrician is in training through an apprenticeship program. The apprentice gains hands-on experience to become a licensed electrician, while the entry level electrician can perform more independent tasks after initial training.

How much do entry level electricians make?

Entry-level electricians typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the region. Starting salaries often include on-the-job training and may increase with additional skills or apprenticeships.

How to start as an entry level electrician with no experience?

To start as an entry level electrician with no experience, you should complete a technical training program or apprenticeship to learn electrical systems and safety practices. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships and obtaining relevant certifications, such as a journeyman license, can improve job prospects and skill development.
More about Entry Level Electrician jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrician jobs in Ridgefield, WA?

The most popular types of Electrician jobs in Ridgefield, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Electrician jobs in Ridgefield, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Electrician jobs in Ridgefield, WA are:

What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Entry Level Electrician jobs?

Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Entry Level Electrician job openings:

Entry Level Electrician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Electrician job openings in Ridgefield, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,978 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Journey Level Millwright/Maintenance Mechanic (M&E)

NORPAC (North Pacific Paper Company)

Longview, WA

$48.98 - $57.99/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

ABOUT NORPAC:

From its world-class manufacturing facility in Longview, WA., the NORPAC mill produces high-quality, packaging, copy paper, and printing paper for customers across the United States and around the world. Now part of International Paper, the NORPAC mill benefits from expanded resources and a strengthened commitment to safety, customer focus, a great workplace, and profitable growth.

NORPAC is a team-based work environment where individuals integrate safety, teamwork, innovation, and citizenship as core values in pursuit of world-class performance while leading a principle-based, process-disciplined organization.

Qualifications

General Requirements Include:

  • Demonstrated ability to work safely and comply with safety procedures
  • Excellent team and communication skills
  • Ability to work without direct supervision
  • Strong interest in learning other crafts
  • Willingness to learn and grow within a tier-based system
  • Basic computer skills
  • Willingness to work in a hot, humid and noisy environment
  • Commitment to continuous learning and active participation in the Electrician and Instrumentation program

Required: (Tier 1 - Entry)

  • Minimum two years’ experience in a continuous processing industry in an entry level maintenance role
  • Assisted in inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing industrial equipment
  • Performed preventive maintenance (lubrication, filter changes, belt adjustments)
  • Supported journey level mechanics in part replacement and equipment diagnostics
  • Followed safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures
  • Maintained organized work areas and tools

Required: (Tier 2 - Experienced)

  • Minimum of a journey-level rating or equivalent millwright and/or mechanical experience plus at minimum two years of experience working in a continuous process industry in a maintenance role
  • Multi-Craft Skills Experience
    • Lubrication, welding, and basic electrical
    • Hydraulics, rigging, shop fabrication, and layout
    • Bearing assembly and mounting, precision fitting, alignment
    • Troubleshooting and machine shop capabilities
    • Print reading and precision assembly

Preferred:

  • Multi/cross-craft experience is a plus, (Mechanical/Electrical)
  • Knowledge of SAP functions
  • Previous leadership experience in maintenance in a manufacturing environment
  • Previous work experience working in paper or pulp mill maintenance

Compensation:

NORPAC encourages professional development/tenure and rewards its employees through a tier-based system.

Tier/Level                                                                                                                                            Hourly Rate

Millwright/Maintenance Mechanic (M&E Tech)                                                                             $47.30
Experienced - Journey Level Millwright/Maintenance Mechanic (M&E Tech)                          $48.98
Senior Maintenance Technician                                                                                                        $50.65
Specialist (Area Expert)                                                                                                                      $53.85
Lead Technician (Crew Leadership)                                                                                                 $55.92
Expert (Mill Wide Leader)                                                                                                                   $57.99

Typical Progression: An experienced journey level millwright/maintenance mechanic generally starts at $48.98/hour and typically advances to $50.65/hour after 3-6 months, based on time, performance, and completion of in-house skills testing


Benefits:


NORPAC offers a highly competitive benefit package to include medical/vision and dental benefits, a company sponsored 401k match and additional company contribution, basic life insurance, employee assistance program, paid time off, floaters upon hire and paid holidays.

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