Electricians play a critical role in Ontario’s infrastructure, ensuring homes, businesses, and industries have safe and reliable electrical systems. Hamilton, ON, a growing industrial and residential hub, offers competitive salaries for electricians due to strong demand and ongoing construction projects.
In this guide, we cover average electrician salaries in Hamilton, earnings by experience, factors affecting pay, job trends, certifications, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Hamilton, ON (2026)
Electricians in Hamilton enjoy competitive wages compared to the provincial average. Earnings depend on experience, specialization, and certifications.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | CAD 45,000 – 55,000 | CAD 22 – 27 |
| Journeyman | CAD 60,000 – 75,000 | CAD 29 – 36 |
| Experienced / Senior | CAD 80,000 – 95,000 | CAD 39 – 46 |
| Master / Specialized | CAD 100,000 – 120,000+ | CAD 48 – 58+ |
Average electrician salary in Hamilton (2026):
👉 Around CAD 75,000 – 85,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly affects an electrician’s earning potential in Hamilton.
1. Apprentice Electricians (0–2 Years)
Work under supervision of licensed electricians
Handle basic wiring and residential tasks
Attend technical school or apprenticeship programs
Average pay: CAD 45,000–55,000/year
2. Journeyman Electricians (3–6 Years)
Work independently on residential and light commercial projects
Gain advanced wiring and troubleshooting skills
Eligible for overtime and union jobs
Average pay: CAD 60,000–75,000/year
3. Experienced / Senior Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Lead commercial and industrial projects
Mentor apprentices
Handle specialized electrical systems
Average pay: CAD 80,000–95,000/year
4. Master Electricians / Specialists
Licensed for high-voltage, industrial, or safety-critical projects
Can own a business or contract services
Specialized areas include renewable energy, automation, and industrial controls
Average pay: CAD 100,000–120,000+/year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings in Hamilton
Several key factors impact how much an electrician can earn:
Salary Influencers
Certification and license level (Apprentice, Journeyman, Master)
Union membership
Industry sector (residential, commercial, industrial, renewable energy)
Specialized skills (high voltage, control systems, solar installation)
Overtime and emergency work
Business ownership or contracting
Electricians providing emergency services or industrial work often earn 20–30% more than average.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Certifications and formal education improve earning potential and career growth.
High-Value Certifications
Ontario Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
CEC (Canadian Electrical Code) Certification
Renewable energy or solar PV certification
Occupational Health & Safety (OHSA) Training
Education Path
High school diploma or equivalent
Completion of electrical college programs or trade school
Apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years)
Passing provincial licensing exams
Electricians with advanced certifications can earn 15–30% higher wages.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Hamilton (2026)
Hamilton’s electrical industry is growing steadily due to urban development, industrial projects, and renewable energy initiatives.
Key Trends
Increased residential renovations and new housing construction
Expanding industrial sector with manufacturing and logistics hubs
Demand for energy-efficient and smart electrical systems
Shortages of skilled electricians in Hamilton and surrounding areas
This growth ensures strong job security for licensed electricians.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Hamilton
In addition to competitive salaries, electricians enjoy various financial and professional benefits.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Pension and retirement plans (especially unionized positions)
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Career stability in essential trade
Opportunities for self-employment or contracting
High demand ensures steady work year-round
Union electricians in Hamilton often receive some of the best benefits in the skilled trades.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Hamilton vs Other Cities (2026)
Hamilton electricians earn competitive wages compared to other Ontario cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Hamilton, ON | CAD 75,000 – 85,000 |
| Toronto, ON | CAD 80,000 – 95,000 |
| Mississauga, ON | CAD 78,000 – 90,000 |
| Ottawa, ON | CAD 70,000 – 82,000 |
| London, ON | CAD 65,000 – 75,000 |
| Calgary, AB | CAD 85,000 – 95,000 |
While Toronto pays slightly more, Hamilton offers lower living costs with strong career growth.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Hamilton
The outlook for electricians in Hamilton is very positive over the next decade.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
High demand due to infrastructure and residential projects
Skilled trade with low automation risk
Increasing adoption of renewable energy and smart technologies
Retirements of older electricians creating labor gaps
Electricians are considered recession-resistant professionals, with consistent opportunities across sectors.
Is Becoming an Electrician in Hamilton a Good Career Choice in 2026?
Yes. Electrical work offers:
Competitive salaries without a college degree
Strong job security
Clear career progression (Apprentice → Journeyman → Master → Contractor)
Opportunities for entrepreneurship
High demand in industrial, commercial, and residential sectors
For individuals willing to complete apprenticeships and licensing, Hamilton is an excellent city to build a long-term electrician career.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Hamilton, ON reflect the city’s strong industrial base, urban growth, and shortage of skilled tradespeople. With wages approaching CAD 100,000 for experienced and master electricians, excellent benefits, and job stability, Hamilton remains one of the best places in Ontario to pursue a career as an electrician. Proper licensing, specialized certifications, and experience can significantly boost earnings, making this trade a profitable and secure choice for the future.