Electrician in Roswell, NM

The Salary Picture: Where Roswell Stands

If you're an electrician looking at Roswell, you're likely weighing the local pay against the national average. The numbers tell a clear story: Roswell offers a cost of living that makes a solid wage go further, but the salary itself is slightly below the national benchmark.

The median salary for an electrician in the Roswell metro area is $60,349/year, translating to an hourly rate of $29.01/hour. For context, the national average for electricians sits at $61,550/year. While this is a modest difference—about $1,200 less annually—it's crucial to factor in Roswell's lower cost of living, which we'll explore in depth. The job market itself is stable but not booming; the metro area supports 143 electrician positions, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 11%, which aligns with the steady demand for skilled tradespeople in a region with aging infrastructure and ongoing commercial development.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different career stages in the Roswell area. This is based on local job postings, industry surveys, and the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for the area.

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary (Roswell)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$42,000 - $52,000	Residential wiring, conduit installation, assisting journeymen, basic troubleshooting.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$55,000 - $68,000	Commercial/industrial work, motor controls, reading complex blueprints, project supervision.
Senior-Level (8-15 yrs)	$65,000 - $78,000+	Project estimation, crew leadership, specialized systems (HVAC, fire alarm), client management.
Expert/Owner (15+ yrs)	$75,000 - $100,000+	Business ownership, master electrician licensing, consulting, large-scale project management.

Insider Tip: Don't take the "entry-level" ceiling as a hard cap. With the right certifications (like OSHA 30 or NFPA 70E), you can push toward the higher end of that range faster. I've seen electricians who specialize in solar or data cabling right out of apprenticeship start closer to $50,000.

Comparison to Other NM Cities:
Roswell sits in the middle of the pack for electrician pay in New Mexico, which is generally lower than the national average. Here's a quick snapshot:

• Albuquerque: Higher salaries (~$65,000-$70,000 median) but a significantly higher cost of living (index ~96).
• Santa Fe: Similar or slightly higher pay than Roswell, but with a much higher housing cost.
• Farmington/Las Cruces: Comparable salaries to Roswell, with similar cost-of-living profiles.
• Gallup: Often has slightly lower median wages but also lower housing costs.

Roswell’s advantage isn’t necessarily in topping the salary charts, but in the balance. You get a median wage that, when paired with the local economy, can afford a comfortable lifestyle.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. A $60,349 salary sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly cash flow in Roswell? We'll use the provided data points for a realistic calculation.

Assumptions for a single filer:

• Gross Annual Salary: $60,349
• Taxes (Est. ~25% for Fed + State + FICA): ~$15,087/year
• Net Annual Income: $45,262
• Monthly Net Pay: $3,772

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an Electrician ($60,349/year):

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$935/month	Roswell average. Could be lower in certain areas (see neighborhoods).
Utilities	$180/month	Electricity (higher in summer), water, gas, trash.
Car Payment/Insurance	$500/month	Assumes a modest used vehicle; insurance is higher in NM.
Groceries	$350/month	Roswell has standard chains (Walmart, Albertsons) and local markets.
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$300/month	Varies widely; employer plans are cheaper.
Fuel	$200/month	Distances in Roswell are manageable, but commutes to industrial areas add up.
Savings & Retirement	$500/month	Critical for a tradesperson. Aim for 10-15% of net income.
Debt/Discretionary Spending	$807/month	This covers everything from cell phone, entertainment, clothes, and occasional dining out.

Total Monthly Expenses (Est.): $3,772
Remaining Balance: $0 (This is a tight but manageable budget, showing the importance of employer-provided benefits and avoiding high-interest debt.)

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, but with caveats. The median home price in Roswell is approximately $210,000. With a $60,349 salary, you would likely qualify for a traditional mortgage, especially with a modest down payment. However, your monthly housing expense (mortgage, taxes, insurance) would likely be $1,200-$1,300, which is higher than renting. This is doable, but it requires strict budgeting and would be easier with a dual-income household. The lower cost of living makes homeownership more attainable here than in many other parts of the country.

Insider Tip: Many local employers, especially in the construction and industrial sectors, offer per-diem or overtime opportunities. A project out of town or a busy season can boost your annual income significantly, making that house payment much more comfortable.

Where the Jobs Are: Roswell's Major Employers

The job market for electricians in Roswell is tied to the city’s mix of healthcare, education, energy, and agriculture. The 143 jobs in the metro are spread across these key employers. Hiring is generally steady, with a slight uptick in the spring and summer as construction projects break ground.

1. Walmart Distribution Center (South Roswell): A massive facility that employs a significant number of maintenance electricians. They handle everything from conveyor systems to specialized warehouse lighting. Hiring is often done through third-party contractors or their internal maintenance team. Trend: Consistent need for industrial electricians with PLC knowledge.
2. Eastern New Mexico Medical Center (ENMMC): The largest hospital in the region. They have a full-time facilities team for all electrical systems, from patient care areas to backup generators. Trend: Steady, reliable employment with good benefits. They often list openings on their website.
3. Roswell Independent School District (RISD): Public schools always need electricians for maintenance, renovations, and new construction. This is a great path for those seeking stability and a government-style schedule (summers off, if you're on the school calendar). Trend: Projects tied to bond measures and state funding.
4. City of Roswell (Municipal Utilities): The city employs electricians for street lighting, water treatment plants, and other municipal infrastructure. These jobs are competitive and offer excellent benefits and pensions. Trend: Slow but steady hiring as infrastructure ages.
5. Industrial & Agricultural Sector (Various): This is a broad category. Companies like Pecos Valley Gas and various agricultural co-ops (for irrigation and processing) hire electrical contractors or direct employees. The Air Force Base is also a major contractor hub for electrical work on base. Trend: Project-based hiring, often through electrical contracting firms like Roswell Electric or Mountain View Electric.
6. Commercial Construction Firms (e.g., Smith & Company, local builders): As Roswell grows, new retail, office, and housing developments require electrical contractors. This is where the most project diversity is found. Trend: Boom-bust cycles tied to the economy, but current demand is healthy.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at "electrician" postings. Search for "maintenance technician," "millwright," and "facility electrician." Many local employers use these titles interchangeably for roles that are 70-80% electrical work.

Getting Licensed in NM

New Mexico has clear licensing requirements, and the process is straightforward but requires dedication. The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD), Construction Industries Division, oversees this.

• Apprenticeship: You must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed electrician and 720 hours of classroom instruction (typically through an IBEW/NECA program or a community college). This takes about 4 years.
• Journeyman Exam: After apprenticeship, you can take the journeyman electrician exam. It's based on the National Electrical Code (NEC). The exam fee is around $150.
• Master Electrician: Requires 4,000 more hours of work as a journeyman and passing another exam. This is needed to pull permits or run your own business.
• Costs: Apprenticeship programs often have minimal costs if union-sponsored. If you go through a non-union trade school, expect to pay for tuition (can be $3,000-$6,000 total). Exam and licensing fees are modest (under $300 total).
• Timeline: From day one of apprenticeship to becoming a licensed journeyman, plan for 4-5 years. The market is competitive, so getting into a good apprenticeship program is key.

Reciprocity: New Mexico has reciprocity with many states (like Texas, Colorado). If you're licensed elsewhere, check the RLD website for the process, which usually involves a shorter exam.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Where you live in Roswell can affect your commute, lifestyle, and rent. Here’s a breakdown of areas popular with tradespeople:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1BR Rent Estimate	Why It's Good for Electricians
Midtown	Central, older homes, walkable to shops & restaurants.	$850 - $1,000	Short commute to downtown offices, hospitals, and schools. Affordable.
South Roswell	Newer developments, near Walmart DC, close to US-285.	$950 - $1,200	Prime location for industrial and distribution jobs. Easy highway access.
Northeast Roswell	Quiet, residential, near the Air Force Base.	$800 - $950	Close to base contractors and the ENMMC medical corridor. Good for families.
West Roswell	Established neighborhoods, closer to the mountains.	$900 - $1,100	Scenic, less traffic. Commute to central jobs is easy via main avenues.

Insider Tip: South Roswell is where the industrial action is, but it's also where traffic can bottleneck during rush hour. If you land a job at the Walmart DC, living in Midtown or South Roswell can keep your commute under 15 minutes.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying as a journeyman electrician in Roswell is a stable, solid career. But to maximize your earnings and satisfaction, consider specialization and advancement.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Industrial/PLC Technician: Adds $5,000-$10,000 to your base salary. Critical for the manufacturing and distribution sectors.
  • Solar/ Renewable Energy: Growing field. New Mexico's sun makes this viable. Expect a 10-15% premium for certified installers.
  • Data Cabling/ Low Voltage: Often a separate trade, but electricians with these skills are in high demand for new construction and office upgrades.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Project Manager: Move from the tools to the office. Requires strong people and organizational skills. Pay can exceed $80,000.
  2. Business Owner: Start your own electrical contracting company. The market is receptive, but you need capital, business acumen, and a master license.
  3. Instructor: Teach at a local trade school or community college (like ENMU-Roswell). Less physical, steady income.

10-Year Outlook: The 11% job growth is promising. As Roswell's population grows (currently 47,823), the demand for new housing, commercial space, and infrastructure upgrades will continue. The key will be adaptability—being skilled in both traditional residential/commercial work and emerging technologies like smart homes and EV charging installations.

The Verdict: Is Roswell Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary of $60,349 goes much further here than in most of the US.	Limited Job Market: Only 143 jobs means less competition but also fewer openings. You may need to be patient.
Stable Demand: 10-year growth of 11% provides job security in essential trades.	Lower Ceiling: Top-end salaries are lower than in major metros, limiting wealth accumulation.
Accessible Housing: The $935/month average rent is affordable on a median electrician salary.	Isolated Location: 3+ hours from Albuquerque or El Paso. Fewer networking events or trade conferences.
Balanced Lifestyle: Less traffic, a strong community feel, and easy access to outdoor recreation.	Economic Dependence: Tied to industries like oil, gas, and agriculture, which can be cyclical.

Final Recommendation:
Roswell is an excellent choice for an electrician who prioritizes a balanced, affordable lifestyle over top-tier salary. It's ideal for journeymen looking to buy a home, raise a family, or enjoy a slower pace of life without sacrificing a solid trade career. It's a great "first home" city for a newly licensed electrician.

It is less ideal for an expert seeking the highest possible income or for someone who thrives on constant, large-scale project variety. If your goal is to reach the top 10% of earners in the field, you might hit a ceiling in Roswell and need to look to Albuquerque or out of state.

FAQs

Q: Is it hard to find an apprenticeship in Roswell?
A: It's competitive but possible. Your best path is to apply to the IBEW Local 904 (covers Southern New Mexico) or contact local contractors directly like Roswell Electric and Mountain View Electric to ask about helper positions. Enrolling in the electrical program at ENMU-Roswell can also get your foot in the door.

Q: What's the weather like for an electrician?
A: Expect a high-desert climate—hot, dry summers (often over 100°F) and mild, sometimes cold winters. You'll work outside year-round, so heat management is crucial. Many jobs are in conditioned spaces, but you'll still face the elements on construction sites.

Q: Do I need a truck or specific tools?
A: As an apprentice, the company typically provides tools and sometimes a vehicle. For journeyman roles, especially with contractors, you're expected to have a reliable truck/van and your own hand/power tools. This is a significant upfront cost ($5,000-$10,000).

Q: How is the union presence here?
A: The IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) Local 904 has a presence, but Roswell has a strong non-union contractor market as well. Both paths offer good work; union jobs often have better benefits and pensions, while non-union may offer more flexibility.

Q: What's the social scene like for a single electrician?
A: Roswell is a family-oriented town. Social life often revolves around work, local sports, and outdoor activities (hiking, camping, fishing). There are bars and restaurants, but it's not a nightlife hub. It's a place where you get to know your neighbors and community well.