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Entry Level Electrician Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC

Entry Level Electrician information

See Rutherfordton, NC salary details

$10

$22

$41

How much do entry level electrician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level electrician in Rutherfordton, NC is $22.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Electrician jobs in Rutherfordton, NC? The most popular types of Electrician jobs in Rutherfordton, NC are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Electrician jobs in Rutherfordton, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Electrician jobs in Rutherfordton, NC are:
What cities near Rutherfordton, NC are hiring for Entry Level Electrician jobs? Cities near Rutherfordton, NC with the most Entry Level Electrician job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Electrician job openings in Rutherfordton, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,797 per year, or $23 per hour.

Dewey Plant - Electrical & Instrumentation I

Milliken and Company

Inman, SC

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Milliken & Company rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 61 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram and  LinkedIn.

POSITION TITLE  

Dewey Plant - Electrical & Instrumentation Technician – Entry Level

POSITION OVERVIEW 

The Entry-Level E&I Technician supports the maintenance and repair of plant electrical and instrumentation systems in a specialty chemical manufacturing environment. Ideal for candidates early in their careers, this role provides the opportunity to build on foundational skills with hands-on experience in process instrumentation, electrical systems, and controls. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Assist in installation, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration of instrumentation and electrical systems. 
  • Work with experienced technicians and engineers to resolve technical issues. 
  • Maintain up-to-date maintenance records using the plant’s CMMS (MAINTelligence). 
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in compliance with plant safety rules. 
  • Support Environmental and Safety initiatives, including maintenance of environmental systems such as scrubbers and sensors. 
  • Contribute to a team-oriented maintenance environment and demonstrate initiative in learning and improvement. 

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED 

  • Minimum of 2 years of industrial or manufacturing maintenance experience (boiler systems experience may qualify). 
  • OR completion of a technical certificate or associate degree in electrical engineering, electrical systems, mechatronics, instrumentation, or a related field. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of basic electrical, instrumentation, or mechanical systems. 
  • Willingness to work rotating shifts and respond to call-ins when needed. 

QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED 

  • OSHA 10-Hour General Industry. 
  • NFPA 70E certification. 
  • Journeyman Electrician License (or actively pursuing). 
  • Familiarity with Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), PLCs, HMIs, and automated controls. 
  • Experience reading and interpreting schematics, loop drawings, or electrical diagrams. 
  • Boiler operations or troubleshooting experience. 
  • Exposure to CMMS platforms and preventive maintenance programs. 

ADA PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, FREQUENCY, AMOUNT, OR DESCRIPTION   

Sitting  

Ability to sit down at least  

25% of day  

Standing  

Ability to stand while working at least  

95% of day  

Moving  

Ability to move throughout the plant at least  

25% of day  

Lifting  

Ability to lift to at least 65 lbs. without assistance  

10% of day  

Ascending/Descending  

Ability to walk upstairs or use ladders at some frequency  

10% of day  

Bending  

Ability to bend or stoop  

10% of day  

Visual Acuity  

Visual acuity adequate to perform job duties, including reading information from printed sources and computer screens at least  

As Required  

Cognitive  

Ability to make decisions, reason & understand information  

As Required  

Milliken is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, including but not limited to lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), ancestry, national origin, citizenship, age physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

To request a reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, a job interview, or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact TalentAcquisition@milliken.com.


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