How Contracting Skills Will Boost Your Income

Many families today struggle with their basic incomes. Side hustles come in handy during such difficult financial times, but it isn’t just any side hustle that offers a stable and flexible money-earning opportunity. 

A great way to get a lucrative side job is to specialize. Contracting skills, especially those in low-voltage systems can be very lucrative. In this article, we’ll use low-voltage contracting as an example of the HOWs, the WHYs, and the WHATs when it comes to choosing a perfect side hustle for you. Lowe-voltage contracting is a great option for the eager part-time worker, but it’s also amazing for someone who wants to scale this and build a career out of it.

Over the past few years, the demand for skilled low-voltage contractors has rapidly increased within different states of the USA.

Let’s check out the ‘why’!

Why Low Voltage Contracting is a Smart Side Hustle

If you aren’t familiar with the term, here’s a simple explanation of what low-voltage contracting involves. Basically, it’s installing and maintaining systems that operate on less than 50 volts, like security systems, fire alarms, and telecommunication. 

Low-voltage systems exist in almost all establishments, whether they be commercial or residential, hence its high (growing) demand and low availability of qualified professionals. With a little investment in tools and materials, this makes it cost-effective to pursue as a side hustle when compared to traditional electrical work.

The flexibility of this job is reflected in scheduling jobs before or after your primary job, and that is one more reason why it is ideal for someone who can’t commit to a rigid work schedule but is looking to earn extra income.

What You Need to Know About Licensing Requirements

In which area/state you can work as a low voltage contractor, depends on what licensing requirements are going to be since they vary by state. Some states require specific licenses for low-voltage work, but some of them include it under general electrical licensing. 

In California, you need to obtain a C-7 license (specifically for low-voltage work) by passing the exam. The license is issued by California Contractors State Licence Board (CSLB). Florida, similarly will also require a low-voltage license, which will be issued by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Also, depending on the municipality, there might be additional requirements. 

Texas requires you to have a valid Electrical Sign Contractor Licence which is provided by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. New York, for instance, has low-voltage work falling under general electrical contractor work, which simplifies things.

In the state of Nevada, you must pass a state-approved exam to obtain a license. To those licensing tests on the first try, its best to prepare properly. This is why resources like Nevada low voltage contractor license test prep can be extremely helpful. If you take a comprehensive preparatory course, there’s a big chance that you’ll pass the exam on the first try.

Other states like California, Florida, and Texas, also have specific regulations for low-voltage licensing. In order to make sure that you have fulfilled all the requirements of your state, the best thing you can do is to research the state-specific regulations.

Related: Simple Low-Effort Ways to Make Money

Income Potential Across States

As already mentioned, income potential is not the same for all states, because it varies depending on location and demand for this type of job. There are recent industry reports that claim that the average hourly rate for low-voltage contractors is between 25 and 50 USD. For experienced professionals is higher. 

In states like California and New York, contractors can command premium rates because the cost of living is higher there.

Nevada has a growing construction industry and offers significant opportunities for low-voltage contractors. When it comes to states like Florida and Arizona trends are similar, because of the rapid urbanization.

State	Average Hourly Rate (USD)	Demand Level
California	35-55	High
New York	30-50	High
Nevada	25-45	Growing
Florida	25-40	Average
Arizona	25-40	Average

How to Get Started Without Going Into Debt

If you are not sure how to start your side hustle as a low-voltage contractor, here is some practical advice:

1. Budget for Test Prep and Licensing: You can find affordable test prep courses and licensing fees in your state. If you choose online resources this will reduce the costs of traveling back and forth. 
2. Patience in Acquiring Tools: You don’t buy all tools in one shot. First, get the essentials, then gradually build one toolbox. Why? Well, it can be expensive, plus you first want to have the basics to learn, get experience, and find out if this type of work suits you.
3. Tap into Existing Networks: Go through your personal and professional networks to find your first clients.
4. Consider Partnering with Established Contractors: If you decide to work as a subcontractor it will help you gain experience and earn income at the same time. You will avoid the costs of starting your own business, but you can do that any time when you feel ready.

Conclusion

If you do opt for low-voltage contracting, t’ll certainly turn out to be a low-risk venture with most certainly some guaranteed (extra) income coming in.  All you need to do to ensure a good start at this job is to prepare properly and to have a strategic approach to this growing field.

The best part is you’re able to start earning extra cash as soon as you pass the low-voltage license test (if your State requires it) while balancing life commitments and your primary job. Also, if you do end up liking it, you can always fully commit to the low-voltage industry and build a career out of it.