When it comes to choosing between working as a union or a non-union electrician, the decision isn’t always clear-cut. After 35 years in the trade, I’ve seen both sides of the fence—from starting out non-union in California to earning my journeyman card and joining a union in Detroit. Today, I’m sharing my firsthand experience to help you navigate the pros and cons of each path so you can make the best choice for your career.
Table of Contents
- The Basics: Union vs Non-Union
- Pay and Benefits
- Job Security and Work Availability
- Education and Training
- Safety Standards
- Brotherhood and Camaraderie
- Politics and Advancement
- Working Conditions
- Final Thoughts: My Journey and Advice
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Basics: Union vs Non-Union
First off, let’s get one thing straight: neither option is perfect. Both union and non-union work have their upsides and downsides, and what works for one person may not work for another. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences I’ve seen over my career.
Pay and Benefits
Pay is often the first thing electricians think about, and it’s no secret that union electricians generally enjoy better wages. That’s because unions collectively bargain for higher pay rates. The old saying holds true: “United you stand, divided you fall.” In contrast, non-union electricians often have to fight for better pay individually, proving their worth on the job without the backing of a collective bargaining agreement.
Benefits are another major advantage for union members. Vacation pay, dental, health insurance, and retirement plans offered through unions tend to surpass what non-union shops provide. While some larger non-union contractors do offer benefits like 401(k)s and health plans, these are the exception rather than the rule.
One thing I disliked about non-union overtime culture was how it was treated like a favor from the employer rather than a legal obligation. In the union, overtime pay is standard and respected as compensation for your time away from family and personal life.
Job Security and Work Availability
Union membership comes with the benefit of being part of a large network, like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). This means you can work anywhere in the country by signing different “books” (job lists) and traveling for work. However, this system can be a double-edged sword. When work dries up, like it did in Detroit’s auto industry after 9/11, many union electricians find themselves laid off for months or even years.
Non-union work sometimes offers more consistent local employment if you build a good reputation, show up on time, and do quality work. Contractors appreciate reliable workers and may keep you on even when times get tough. But non-union jobs often lack the broader safety net unions provide.
Education and Training
Union apprenticeships are well-structured, typically involving weekly or monthly classroom instruction combined with on-the-job training. Apprentices rotate through different contractors and specialties—commercial, industrial, service, high voltage—to become well-rounded electricians.
Non-union electricians often rely on individual contractors for training, and while some participate in programs like the ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors), many do not have access to formal apprenticeship education. This can sometimes mean less consistent training and fewer opportunities for skill development.
Safety Standards
Safety is a big focus in union shops. Regular safety meetings, strict adherence to PPE (personal protective equipment) rules, and enforced protocols are standard. Non-union safety practices vary widely depending on the company. I’ve seen questionable practices on non-union jobs, like ladders stacked precariously on scaffolding or unsafe workarounds that wouldn’t fly in a union environment.
Brotherhood and Camaraderie
One of the most praised aspects of union life is the sense of brotherhood. There’s a camaraderie among union members who share the experience of apprenticeship and job rotation. However, I’ve also witnessed the flip side in non-union shops, where office politics, backstabbing, and nepotism can create a toxic environment. Both sides have their share of workplace politics, though they manifest differently.
Politics and Advancement
Union politics can be intense—everything from job assignments to leadership roles involves navigating internal dynamics. Even as a steward, I found the political side stressful. Non-union politics tend to revolve more around favoritism and “kissing up” to supervisors, which can be just as frustrating.
Advancement in non-union settings is limited. You might be offered foreman roles if the company is short-staffed, but permanent career growth opportunities are rare. In the union, there’s a clearer path through apprenticeship, journey-level work, and possibly leadership roles, though it too has its challenges.
Working Conditions
Union contracts generally guarantee breaks, lunches, and regulated working hours, enforced by national agreements. Non-union jobs often have less consistent enforcement, with foremen sometimes cutting breaks short or pressuring workers to “mash” breaks together to keep productivity up.
Final Thoughts: My Journey and Advice
After years bouncing between union and non-union work, I decided to become my own boss. I got my contractor’s license and started a one-man shop. I don’t hire anyone anymore because I prefer working for myself—no politics, no backstabbing, no nepotism.
My advice? If you want stability and benefits, union work is a solid choice. But if you want to avoid politics and prefer control over your schedule, consider working for yourself or finding a reliable non-union contractor. Always be prepared and keep hustling.
Remember, nobody buys your tools for you, and whether union or non-union, you have to bring your A-game every day. Keep your head down, do your job, and make the choice that fits your life and goals best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is union work always better pay than non-union?
Generally, yes. Unions collectively bargain for better wages, but non-union pay can vary widely depending on the contractor and location.
Can I get good benefits working non-union?
Some larger non-union contractors offer benefits, but they are less common and often less comprehensive than union benefits.
Which offers better job security, union or non-union?
Union membership provides access to a national job network, but layoffs can be long during downturns. Non-union jobs may offer more consistent local work if you have a good reputation.
How does training differ between union and non-union electricians?
Union apprenticeships are structured with classroom and on-the-job training, rotating through various specialties. Non-union training depends on the contractor and is often less formal.
Is safety better in union or non-union jobs?
Union shops generally have stricter safety protocols and regular safety meetings. Non-union safety varies widely by employer.
Can I advance my career more easily in union or non-union?
Union work offers clearer pathways through apprenticeship and leadership roles, though politics can be challenging. Non-union advancement is often limited.
What’s the best way to avoid workplace politics?
Politics exist everywhere. Keeping your head down, doing quality work, and, if possible, working for yourself can help minimize exposure to workplace drama.
Should I consider becoming an independent contractor?
If you want control over your work and schedule, and are prepared to hustle, becoming your own boss can be rewarding. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a path worth considering.