Electrician in Oshkosh, WI

The Salary Picture: Where Oshkosh Stands

If you're an electrician eyeing Oshkosh, the financial picture is solid, though it doesn't top the charts. The median salary for an electrician in the Oshkosh metro area is $59,832/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.77/hour. That’s a respectable wage, especially when you factor in the region's low cost of living. For context, the national average sits at $61,550/year, meaning Oshkosh electricians earn about 2.8% less than their peers across the country. It’s not a huge gap, but it’s one to note.

The job market here is stable but not booming. The metro area has approximately 198 electrician jobs, which reflects a mature, established trade community. Over the next decade, the field is projected to grow by 11%, keeping pace with national trends. This growth is driven less by new construction and more by the ongoing need for maintenance, upgrades, and renewable energy installations in existing structures.

To get a clearer picture of earning potential, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These estimates are based on local industry standards and the provided median data.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Typical Hourly Rate	Key Responsibilities in Oshkosh
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$42,000 - $52,000	$20 - $25	Residential rough-ins, basic commercial conduit, assisting journeypersons.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$59,832 (Median)	$28.77	Independent service calls, commercial branch circuits, troubleshooting.
Senior (8-15 yrs)	$70,000 - $85,000	$33 - $40	Project management, industrial controls, leading small crews.
Expert/ Master	$85,000+	$40+	Design, permitting, business ownership, specialized systems (fire alarm, data).

Insider Tip: The jump from mid to senior level often comes from specialization. In Oshkosh, getting certified in industrial motor controls (for the manufacturing plants) or becoming a licensed low-voltage technician can push your salary into the $70,000+ range faster than general residential work.

How Oshkosh Compares to Other WI Cities:

• Milwaukee: Higher salaries ($65,000+ median) but significantly higher cost of living and more competition.
• Green Bay: Very similar to Oshkosh in both pay and cost of living. It's a toss-up based on personal preference.
• Madison: Higher pay potential ($63,000+ median) due to state government and university work, but rent is nearly double.
• Eau Claire: Slightly lower salary ($56,000 median) but with a cost of living that rivals Oshkosh's affordability.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Oshkosh’s affordability is its strongest selling point. With a median salary of $59,832, your take-home pay after taxes (estimate ~22-25% effective rate, depending on deductions) is roughly $3,600 - $3,800 per month. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $779/month, a figure that’s hard to find in most other mid-sized cities.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single electrician earning the median salary:

Monthly Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,700	Post-tax estimate
Rent (1BR)	$779	Average across the city
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$200	Oshkosh utilities are reasonable
Groceries	$350
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$450	Essential; public transit is limited
Health Insurance	$200	If employer doesn't cover fully
Retirement Savings (10%)	$500	Critical for long-term wealth
Discretionary/Other	$1,221	Food, entertainment, hobbies, savings
Total	$3,700

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With over $1,200 in discretionary income, saving for a down payment is very feasible. The median home price in Oshkosh is around $180,000 - $200,000. A 20% down payment is $36,000 - $40,000. Given the budget surplus, a disciplined electrician could save this in 2-3 years. A 30-year mortgage on a $200,000 home at current rates (~7%) with a 20% down payment would be roughly $1,070/month, including taxes and insurance—still manageable on this salary. This is a key advantage over cities like Madison or Milwaukee.

Where the Jobs Are: Oshkosh's Major Employers

The job market is anchored by local institutions and a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial work. Hiring trends favor journeypersons with clean driving records and the ability to work independently on service calls.

1. Miron Construction: A major regional contractor based in Neenah but with a massive footprint in Oshkosh. They handle large commercial projects (like the recent Oshkosh Corporation expansions). They hire for project-based electrical work, offering good overtime. Insider Tip: They often post jobs directly on their website before they hit major job boards.

2. Oshkosh Corporation: The city's largest employer. While their core is vehicle manufacturing, they have extensive facilities maintenance teams and hire electrical contractors for plant infrastructure. They look for electricians with industrial experience, especially in controls and high-voltage systems.

3. Festival Foods (Corporate): Headquartered in nearby De Pere but a major local employer. They have a facilities team for their distribution centers and stores in Oshkosh. This is stable, full-time work with a focus on preventative maintenance.

4. Winnebago County: The county government and its facilities (courthouse, public works, etc.) employ electricians for maintenance. These are often union positions (IBEW Local 159) with excellent benefits and pensions, though they can be competitive to get into.

5. Local Electrical Contractors (Residential/Commercial): Dozens of smaller firms like Koch Electric and Allied Electric service the residential and small commercial market. These are the backbone of the trade here, offering steady work and a path to partnership for those who excel.

6. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh: The university has a facilities department that employs electricians for campus maintenance. This is a great option for those seeking a stable, 9-to-5 schedule with good benefits and lower physical strain compared to construction.

7. Fox Cities Hospitals (Aurora BayCare, Mercy): While technically in neighboring Appleton, the healthcare sector is a major driver of electrical work (backup generators, medical gas systems, sensitive power). Many Oshkosh electricians commute 20-30 minutes for these high-paying, specialized roles.

Insider Tip: The best jobs are often not advertised publicly. Joining the NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) - Wisconsin Chapter or the IBEW Local 159 (which covers Oshkosh) is the fastest way to hear about opportunities, especially for union shop jobs which offer top-tier pay and benefits.

Getting Licensed in WI

Wisconsin has a clear, structured path to becoming a licensed electrician. You cannot work independently without a license. The process is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

The Path:

1. Apprenticeship (4 years, 8,000 hours): You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program. This is typically a combination of paid on-the-job training (2,000 hours/year) and classroom instruction (144 hours/year).
2. Journeyperson License: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Wisconsin Journeyperson Electrician Exam. This is a comprehensive test on the National Electrical Code (NEC) and state codes.
3. Master Electrician License: Requires 5 years as a licensed journeyperson and passing a more advanced exam. This is necessary for business owners and those doing design work.

Costs & Timeline:

• Apprenticeship Program Fees: Varies by program, but expect $1,500 - $3,000 total for materials and tuition over 4 years. Many employers will reimburse this.
• Exam Fees: Journeyperson exam is $125; Master exam is $150.
• License Fees: Journeyperson license is $100 (initial), $50 (renewal every 2 years). Master license is $175 (initial), $100 (renewal).
• Total Estimated Cost (to Journeyperson): $2,000 - $4,000 (net cost, if employer reimburses).
• Timeline: 4 years minimum for a Journeyperson license. You can start working as a first-year apprentice immediately upon entry into a program.

Insider Tip: The state offers a "Maintenance Electrician" license for those working solely on existing facilities (not new construction). It has different requirements and can be a faster path into stable facilities jobs at places like Oshkosh Corp or the university.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Oshkosh is a compact city, and commute times are generally short (10-20 minutes). Your choice depends on lifestyle and where you work.

1. Northshore / Algoma: The most desirable area for young professionals and families. It's walkable, with cafes and the Riverwalk. Close to many commercial and downtown service calls. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100 for a 1BR. A 20-minute commute to any industrial area.

2. Southside / 10th Street Corridor: A more affordable, working-class area with easy access to Highway 41. Great for electricians who work frequently at Oshkosh Corp or south-side commercial buildings. Rent Estimate: $650 - $800 for a 1BR. 10-15 minute commute to most job sites.

3. Westside / 9th Avenue: A mix of older homes and apartments. Very central, making it a short drive to the north or south. Good value for renters. Rent Estimate: $700 - $850 for a 1BR. 5-15 minute commute city-wide.

4. Downtown Oshkosh: The heart of the action, especially during summer festivals. Ideal for service electricians who want to be close to the action and don't mind higher rent. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,300+ for a 1BR. Walking distance to many service calls.

5. Eastside / Near UWO: Quieter, family-oriented, and near the university. Good for those who work at the university or want a peaceful home base after a day of physical work. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR. 10-20 minute commute.

Insider Tip: For the best balance, the Westside offers the most flexibility. You're never more than a 10-minute drive from any major employer, and rent is reasonable. The north shore is worth the higher cost if you value walkability and nightlife.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Oshkosh is a place to build a career, not just get a job. Growth comes from specialization and networking.

Specialty Premiums:

• Industrial Controls & Automation: With Oshkosh Corp and local manufacturing, this is the highest-paid specialty. Premium: $10-$15/hour over general journeyperson rates.
• Low-Voltage / Data & Communications: Certification in structured cabling, fire alarm, and security systems opens doors in healthcare and education. Premium: $5-$8/hour.
• Renewable Energy (Solar): Wisconsin's solar industry is growing. Experienced solar electricians are in demand for both residential and commercial projects. Premium: $5-$10/hour.

Advancement Paths:

1. Field Supervisor: Move from hands-on work to managing crews for a contractor. Requires strong organizational skills.
2. Project Estimator/Manager: Use field experience to bid and manage projects. Often a path into the office.
3. Business Owner: Many successful electrical contractors in Oshkosh started as apprentices. The local market is stable enough to support small, reputable shops.
4. Maintenance Electrician for a Large Facility: A stable, often union, path with a set schedule and benefits, reducing physical wear and tear.

10-Year Outlook: The 11% job growth is promising. The aging workforce means journeypersons with 5-10 years of experience will be in high demand. The push for energy efficiency and building electrification will create consistent work. The key to long-term success is staying current with NEC updates and pursuing continuing education credits, which the state requires for license renewal.

The Verdict: Is Oshkosh Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living: A $59,832 salary goes much further here than in most metro areas. You can afford a home and a comfortable lifestyle.	Lower Ceiling: The median salary is below the national average. Top-tier earnings require specialization and may cap below major coastal cities.
Stable Job Market: Anchored by healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Not prone to drastic boom/bust cycles.	Smaller Network: The trade community is tight-knit. Breaking into the best union or contractor jobs often requires connections.
Manageable Commutes: You can live affordably and be at any major job site in under 20 minutes.	Colder Climate: Wisconsin winters are real. Outdoor/rough-in work can be challenging from November to March.
Clear Career Path: The apprenticeship system is well-established, and advancement to Master Electrician is straightforward.	Limited Nightlife/Activity: Compared to Madison or Milwaukee, the options for after-work socializing are more limited.

Final Recommendation: Oshkosh is an excellent choice for electricians who value financial stability and quality of life over maximum earning potential. It’s ideal for those planning to raise a family, buy a home, and build a long-term career in a supportive community. If you’re ambitious and want to hit the $100,000+ mark quickly, you might find a faster path in a larger city. But for a balanced, rewarding career where your paycheck has real power, Oshkosh is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Do I need to join the union to find good work in Oshkosh?
No, but it helps significantly. Union shops (IBEW Local 159) offer top-tier wages ($35-$45/hour total package) and pensions. However, many successful non-union contractors also provide great pay and benefits. Your best bet is to apply to both and compare offers.

2. What’s the demand for residential electricians versus commercial?
It’s fairly balanced. The housing market in Oshkosh is steady, so there's consistent work for residential specialists. Commercial work is driven by the manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Many electricians do both, especially when starting out, to keep their skills versatile.

3. How important is a clean driving record?
Critical. Most electrical company vehicles are work trucks, and employers are very strict about driving records. A DUI or multiple speeding tickets can disqualify you from many jobs, especially those requiring travel between sites.

4. Can I get a job as an electrician in Oshkosh without a formal apprenticeship?
Wisconsin law requires a licensed electrician to perform the work. You can start as a helper, but to get your journeyperson license, you must complete an approved apprenticeship. Some contractors will hire you as a helper while you enroll in a program.

5. What’s the biggest challenge for electricians moving to Oshkosh?
Two things: the winter cold and the social adjustment. If you’re used to a big city, the slower pace and fewer entertainment options can be a surprise. But for many, the trade-off for affordable, comfortable living is more than worth it.