Electricians are essential tradespeople who ensure homes, businesses, and industrial facilities have safe and reliable electrical systems. Ottawa, ON, as the capital city of Canada, offers competitive salaries for electricians due to high demand, infrastructure growth, and a thriving construction sector. In 2026, Ottawa’s electrician job market remains strong, providing opportunities for both new and experienced tradespeople.
This guide explores average electrician salaries in Ottawa, factors that affect earnings, pay by experience, certifications, job trends, benefits, and a comparison with other Canadian cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Ottawa, ON (2026)
Electrician salaries in Ottawa are competitive, reflecting the city’s cost of living, demand for skilled labor, and union influence.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary (CAD) | Hourly Rate (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice / Entry-level | $45,000 – $55,000 | $22 – $27 |
| Licensed Electrician (Mid-level) | $60,000 – $75,000 | $29 – $36 |
| Experienced / Journeyman | $80,000 – $95,000 | $38 – $46 |
| Master / Specialized | $100,000 – $120,000+ | $48 – $58+ |
Average electrician salary in Ottawa (2026):
👉 Approximately $75,000 – $85,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience heavily impacts an electrician’s earning potential.
1. Apprentice Electricians (0–2 Years)
Work under supervision while completing training
Learn safety protocols and basic electrical installations
Limited independent work
Average pay: $45,000–$55,000/year
2. Mid-Level / Licensed Electricians (3–6 Years)
Independently handle residential and commercial projects
Troubleshooting and maintenance work
Opportunity to earn overtime
Average pay: $60,000–$75,000/year
3. Experienced / Journeyman Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Work on larger commercial or industrial projects
Leadership responsibilities on job sites
Often eligible for bonuses and premium pay
Average pay: $80,000–$95,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Specialized skills like industrial systems, high-voltage, or renewable energy
May run their own business or manage teams
Can earn significantly higher income due to certifications and expertise
Average pay: $100,000–$120,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
Several variables affect how much electricians earn in Ottawa:
Key Salary Drivers
Experience and skill level
Union membership
Specialization (industrial, commercial, residential)
Overtime and emergency work
Certifications and licenses
Business ownership or self-employment
Electricians offering 24/7 emergency services or specializing in renewable energy often see higher salaries.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Becoming a licensed or master electrician in Ottawa requires education and certifications, which directly influence pay.
High-Value Certifications
Ontario College of Trades Certificate
Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
Safety and OSHA certifications
Specialized certifications (e.g., solar, industrial automation)
Education Path
High school diploma or equivalent
Completion of an apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years)
Passing provincial licensing exams
Certified electricians often earn 15–30% more than unlicensed workers.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Ottawa (2026)
Ottawa’s electrician job market remains strong with high demand due to construction, infrastructure, and population growth.
Current Trends
Growth in residential and commercial construction
Increased adoption of renewable energy systems
Aging electrical infrastructure requiring upgrades
Strong demand for industrial electricians in manufacturing and tech
Steady union job availability
Electrician positions in Ottawa are considered highly secure and in-demand.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Ottawa
Electricians enjoy many benefits beyond salary.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision coverage
Pension and retirement plans, especially for union members
Paid overtime, holidays, and vacation
High job security due to essential trade
Opportunities to start own business
Professional growth through certifications
Union electricians in Ottawa often receive additional job protections and benefits.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Ottawa vs Other Cities (2026)
Ottawa’s salaries are competitive compared to other major Canadian cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Ottawa, ON | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| Toronto, ON | $80,000 – $95,000 |
| Montreal, QC | $70,000 – $80,000 |
| Vancouver, BC | $85,000 – $100,000 |
| Calgary, AB | $78,000 – $90,000 |
| Edmonton, AB | $75,000 – $88,000 |
While Vancouver offers slightly higher pay, Ottawa has a balanced cost of living and strong job stability.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Ottawa
The outlook for electricians in Ottawa remains positive through 2030 and beyond.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential trade with minimal risk of automation
Continuous demand for residential, commercial, and industrial work
Infrastructure projects and renewable energy expansion
Retirements creating openings for new electricians
Electrician careers in Ottawa are considered recession-resistant, making it a secure profession.
Is Becoming an Electrician in Ottawa a Good Career in 2026?
Yes. Electricians enjoy:
Strong salary potential
Excellent job security
Opportunities for self-employment
Career advancement through certifications
Essential, recession-resistant work
For individuals willing to complete apprenticeships and obtain licenses, electrician work in Ottawa is a highly rewarding career choice.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the electrician salary in Ottawa, ON reflects strong demand, specialized skill requirements, and competitive pay. With average salaries ranging from $75,000 to $85,000 and excellent career stability, Ottawa remains an attractive city for electricians at all experience levels. Whether starting as an apprentice or advancing to a master electrician role, Ottawa provides one of Canada’s most promising environments for skilled electrical trades.