Exploring Careers in Industrial and Oilfield Electrical Work
If you’re looking for a hands-on, high-paying, and in-demand career, industrial and oilfield electrical work could be a great fit. The electrical trade plays a vital role in keeping industries running, ensuring power distribution, automation, and safety in critical sectors such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and renewable energy.
As industries grow and technology advances, skilled electricians are needed more than ever to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems. If you enjoy problem-solving, working with advanced equipment, and being part of large-scale operations, here’s why an industrial or oilfield electrical career might be right for you.
What Do Industrial and Oilfield Electricians Do?
Industrial and oilfield electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing complex electrical systems in environments such as:
Oil and gas drilling sites
Manufacturing plants
Power plants and refineries
Mining operations
Renewable energy facilities
Their work goes beyond basic wiring and electrical repairs. These electricians often work with:
✔ Heavy machinery and automation systems
✔ High-voltage power distribution
✔ Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and SCADA systems
✔ Explosion-proof and hazardous location wiring
✔ Underground and overhead power systems
Whether it’s keeping an oil rig operational or troubleshooting industrial automation in a factory, these roles require technical expertise and attention to safety.
Why Choose a Career in Industrial and Oilfield Electrical Work?
1. High Demand and Job Security
Industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and energy production rely heavily on skilled electricians. As new projects emerge and aging infrastructure requires upgrades, the demand for industrial and oilfield electricians continues to grow.
Unlike many careers that can be outsourced or automated, electricians will always be essential for building and maintaining electrical systems.
2. Competitive Pay and Career Growth
Industrial and oilfield electrical work offers higher wages than many traditional electrical roles.
Apprentice Electricians: $40,000 - $50,000 per year
Journeyman Electricians: $60,000 - $85,000 per year
Master Electricians or Electrical Contractors: $90,000 - $120,000+ per year
PLC Programmers and Automation Specialists: $70,000 - $100,000+ per year
As you gain experience and certifications, you can move up into higher-paying positions or even start your own electrical contracting business.
3. Exciting Work Environments
If you enjoy working with your hands, troubleshooting electrical systems, and working in dynamic environments, industrial and oilfield electrical work will keep you engaged.
From traveling to oilfields in Oklahoma to working inside large manufacturing plants, no two days are the same.
4. Opportunity to Specialize
There are multiple career paths within industrial and oilfield electrical work, including:
Automation & Control Systems – Working with PLCs, SCADA systems, and robotics.
High-Voltage Power Distribution – Handling substations, transformers, and grid systems.
Renewable Energy – Installing and maintaining solar and wind energy systems.
Instrumentation & Process Control – Monitoring flow meters, sensors, and industrial control panels.
With additional training and certifications, you can specialize in high-paying electrical fields.
How to Start a Career in Industrial and Oilfield Electrical Work
Becoming an industrial or oilfield electrician requires training, certifications, and hands-on experience. Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Get a High School Diploma or GED
Most apprenticeship programs and technical schools require a high school diploma or GED. Courses in math, physics, and shop classes can help build a strong foundation for electrical work.
Step 2: Enroll in an Electrical Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn, combining classroom instruction with on-the-job training under licensed electricians.
Apprenticeships typically last 4-5 years.
You'll work under licensed journeyman and master electricians.
You’ll complete hands-on training in industrial and oilfield electrical systems.
Step 3: Obtain Electrical Licenses & Certifications
To advance in your career, you’ll need to pass a state licensing exam to become a Journeyman Electrician. Additional certifications, such as OSHA safety training, PLC programming, and SCADA system certifications, can boost your job opportunities.
Step 4: Gain Experience & Specialize
After becoming a journeyman, you can specialize in areas like automation, power distribution, or oilfield operations. Continuing education and certifications can lead to higher-paying positions and leadership roles.
Start Your Electrical Career with Houston Electric
If you’re looking to start a career in industrial or oilfield electrical work in Oklahoma, Houston Electric is hiring apprentices, journeyman electricians, and automation specialists.
We offer:
✔ Hands-on training and mentorship
✔ Competitive pay and benefits
✔ Opportunities for career advancement
✔ A strong focus on safety and innovation
📍 Location: Garber, OK
📞 Phone: (580) 863-2863
📧 Email: contact@houstonelectricinc.net
Apply today! Visit our Careers Page to learn more.
Final Thoughts
A career in industrial and oilfield electrical work is a great choice for those looking for job security, excellent pay, and an exciting work environment. With the increasing demand for skilled electricians in manufacturing, oil & gas, and automation, now is the perfect time to start your journey.
If you’re ready to take the first step, contact Houston Electric today and explore the exciting opportunities in industrial and oilfield electrical work!
