Why Electricians Should Go Union: The Benefits of Joining the IBEW

1. Better Wages
Union electricians earn significantly more on average than their non-union counterparts. With IBEW-negotiated contracts, you’re guaranteed fair pay, regular raises, and additional pay that reflects your skill and time - including per diem and incentives, which vary from contractor to contractor, jobsite to jobsite.

2. Strong Benefits Package
When you work under an IBEW contract, for a union contractor, you are guaranteed insurance and retirement benefits that costs you $0, including:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)

• Retirement plans (pensions + annuity)

• Life insurance and disability coverage

• Access to quality mental health and wellness resources

3. Job Security & Legal Protection
Union contracts protect you from unfair treatment, wrongful termination, and unsafe work conditions. If there’s a problem, the union has your back — with representation, grievance procedures, and legal support.

4. Safer Working Conditions
The IBEW makes jobsite safety a top priority. Union members receive ongoing safety training and contractors are held to strict safety standards under negotiated agreements.

5. Training & Advancement Opportunities
The IBEW offers one of the best apprenticeship and continuing education programs in the industry through NJATC (now ETI). You can earn while you learn — and continue training throughout your career to advance into higher-paying and specialized roles.

6. Solidarity & Brotherhood
In the IBEW, you’re not just a worker — you’re part of a brotherhood and sisterhood that stands together. There’s real strength in numbers, and a shared commitment to fairness, dignity, and professional excellence.

7. Fair Scheduling & Work-Life Balance
Union contracts help prevent overwork and burnout by enforcing rules around hours, breaks, and time off. You’ll know when you’re working and when you’re not — allowing for a better work-life balance.

8. Dignity & Respect on the Job
Union membership gives you a voice. Whether it’s safer job sites, better wages, or respectful treatment from supervisors, being part of the IBEW means you have power at the table — not just orders from the top.

On top of all of these, there are additional benefits that vary from local to local, region to region. Reach out to an organizer to find out more:

Dan Post at 336-549-8006 or Dan@ibew342.org

Taran Hamill at 336-540-4513 or Taran@ibew342.org

Julian McDaniel at 743-643-5128 or Julian@ibew342.org

In Short:

Going IBEW means fair pay, real benefits, safer work, stronger job security, and a career you can build a future on.

Electricians build the world — and the IBEW makes sure you’re treated like it.