Explore how your federal experience as a High Voltage Electrician (GS-2810) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Electrician Apprentice, Junior Electrician, Entry-Level Electrician | Assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems under supervision. Perform routine inspections and assist senior electricians in troubleshooting and problem-solving. | $35,000 - $48,000 |
| 5-7 | Electrician, Field Electrician, Maintenance Electrician | Perform installation, repair, and maintenance of high voltage electrical systems. Interpret electrical drawings, conduct safety inspections, and ensure compliance with codes and regulations. Troubleshoot and resolve electrical issues independently. | $48,000 - $65,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Electrician, Lead Electrician, Electrical Supervisor | Oversee electrical work on projects and supervise a team of electricians. Manage project timelines, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance. Ensure quality assurance standards are met throughout electrical installations and repairs. | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| 10-11 | Electrical Project Manager, Electrical Operations Manager, High Voltage Electrician Specialist | Plan and manage electrical projects, ensuring adherence to budgets and timelines. Lead teams in high voltage system installations and maintenance. Liaise with other departments to coordinate electrical needs and ensure safety compliance. | $85,000 - $105,000 |
| 12-13 | Electrical Engineering Manager, Senior High Voltage Engineer, Technical Director of Electric Systems | Direct and oversee engineering practices within high voltage projects. Analyze complex electrical systems and develop strategic plans for upgrades and maintenance. Establish best practices and standards for electrical safety and efficiency. | $105,000 - $130,000 |
| 14-15 | Director of Electrical Services, Chief Electric Engineer, VP of Electrical Operations | Lead the strategic direction and operational management of all electrical services, ensuring sustainable practices and compliance with regulations. Oversee budget, resource allocation, and personnel management. Drive innovation in high voltage technology and methodologies. | $130,000 - $160,000 |
| SES | Senior Executive of Electrical Infrastructure, Chief Technology Officer for Electrification, Executive Director of Power Systems | Provide vision and leadership for electrical program initiatives and policies. Manage large-scale electrical projects and infrastructure programs at the organizational level. Collaborate with stakeholders to align business strategies with electrical service developments. | $160,000 - $200,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
National Electrical Code (NEC) Certification
Achieving NEC certification demonstrates a deep understanding of electrical safety standards, which is crucial for high voltage electricians working on complex electrical systems. This certification not only strengthens job qualifications but also enhances credibility with employers in the civilian sector who prioritize adherence to safety regulations.
Certified Electrician (National Center for Construction Education and Research - NCCER)
The NCCER Certified Electrician credential provides comprehensive training and testing in electrical systems, ensuring that individuals are well-versed in the latest techniques and technologies. This certification is recognized across the industry, giving candidates an edge in job competitions and showcasing their commitment to professional development.
OSHA 30-Hour Electrical Safety Certification
The OSHA 30-Hour Electrical Safety Certification focuses on safety practices specific to the electrical industry, which is essential for high voltage electricians who must ensure safe working conditions. In the civilian sector, employers highly value these safety certifications as they help in reducing workplace accidents and liability.
Journeyman Electrician License
Acquiring a Journeyman Electrician License is a critical step towards proving hands-on expertise in the field of electrical work, which is essential for maintaining and troubleshooting high voltage electrical systems. This credential is often required or preferred in many civilian roles, making individuals more attractive to prospective employers.
Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering
A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering provides foundational knowledge in advanced electrical systems, circuit design, and power systems, which is beneficial for high voltage electricians. This degree can open doors to more advanced positions, such as engineering roles, in the civilian sector where technical skills are increasingly essential.
Master Electrician License
A Master Electrician License represents the highest level of expertise in the electrical trade, encompassing a wide range of skills necessary for high voltage systems. This credential can significantly enhance career opportunities in the civilian market, as it demonstrates extensive experience and knowledge in managing larger electrical projects.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-2810 High Voltage Electrician role to a position in the private sector can be a rewarding opportunity for your career development. However, it's essential to approach this transition with a proactive mindset and equipped strategies that will enable you to successfully navigate this change. Here’s an overview of how to approach your career transition, including mindset shifts, resume and interview tips, networking strategies, and translating your federal experience into the private sector language.
Embrace Change: Transitioning to a new work environment often comes with uncertainty. Embrace the change as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Understand that your skills are transferable and valuable in different contexts.
Think Like a Private Sector Employee: The private sector might prioritize different values compared to federal service. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as profit margins, customer service, and ROI (Return on Investment). Begin to think about how your work in the federal system contributed to efficiency, safety, and problem-solving, which are desirable traits in the private sector.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Be prepared to adapt your working style. In the private sector, you may encounter varying company cultures, work hours, and team dynamics. Show an openness to learn and fit into new workplace environments.
Translate Your Skills: Convert federal terminology into private sector language. For example, instead of saying "following federal guidelines," you might say "ensuring compliance with industry standards to enhance safety and efficiency". Focus on outcomes and contributions rather than job functions.
Example:
Federal: Managed installation and maintenance of high voltage electrical systems.
Private Sector: Led successful high voltage electrical system installations, achieving a 100% safety compliance rating while optimizing operational efficiency.
Highlight Results and Accomplishments: Employers want to see what you have achieved. Quantify your achievements where possible. Use metrics such as cost savings, time efficiencies, or safety improvements.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Application: Customize your resume to match the job description. Use key phrases from the job listing that align with your skills and experiences.
Include Relevant Certifications: If you have any additional certifications (e.g., OSHA, NFPA, NETA), ensure they are prominently featured in your resume. Such certifications can give you an advantage in the private sector.
Practice Behavioral Interviewing Techniques: Employers often use behavioral interviews to assess your past experiences as an indicator of future behavior. Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you demonstrated critical skills or handled challenges effectively.
Prepare for Technical Questions: As a high voltage electrician, you may face technical questions relevant to electrical systems, troubleshooting, and safety practices. Be ready to discuss your technical expertise in detail.
Show Enthusiasm for the Opportunity: Demonstrating genuine interest in the position and the company can set you apart. Research the company and talk about how your values align with theirs.
Ask Insightful Questions: At the end of the interview, asking insightful questions shows your interest in the role and the organization. Inquire about team dynamics, growth opportunities, and how the company measures success in the position.
Leverage Existing Networks: Start with your current network. Connect with former colleagues, supervisors, or professionals you met through training. They may have insights on job opportunities or tips for transitioning.
Join Professional Associations: Many associations related to electrical engineering and energy markets exist. Joining these groups can increase your visibility, expand your network, and often lead to job openings in the field.
Attend Industry Events: Take advantage of trade shows, seminars, and workshops related to electrical work. Engaging with others in the field can lead to valuable connections and potential job leads.
Engage on Social Media Platforms: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals. Share your experiences, thoughts on industry trends, and any further learning you’re pursuing to keep your profile active.
Informational Interviews: Request short meetings or calls with professionals in roles that you are interested in. This is a chance for you to learn about their paths and gather advice on navigating the industry.
Understand Industry Language: Familiarize yourself with terminology, trends, and current topics that are prevalent in the private sector. Reading industry-related publications can help you get a better sense of how to communicate your experience.
Focus on Soft Skills: The private sector increasingly values interpersonal skills. Emphasize qualities such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. These are widely applicable and necessary in any field.
Demonstrate Your Continuous Learning: Highlight any ongoing education or certifications you are pursuing or have completed that relate to private sector jobs. This shows initiative and a commitment to professional development.
Transitioning from a federal GS-2810 High Voltage Electrician role to the private sector is undoubtedly a significant change, but with the right approach, it can be an incredibly fulfilling and successful journey. Emphasize your skills, adapt your experiences into relevant language, and actively engage in networking. Embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm and confidence; you are equipped with valuable skills that the private sector will appreciate.