Marine Corps Electrician (MOS 1141) complete work on various electrical power distribution systems.
These systems are overhead, above ground, below ground and tactical.
Electricians are required to install, maintain, repair and operate these systems as well as other basic tasks.
Qualifications and Training
To enter into this MOS, you must be at least 17 with parental consent, and no older than 28 when starting training, be a U.S. Resident and have a High School Diploma.
Recruits must first take the ASVAB test to join as an Electrician.
A minimum score of 90 on the Electronics (EL) portion is required.
To become a Marine, you must meet the height, weight and body fat requirements plus pass the Physical Fitness Test and the Combat Fitness Test.
After passing all testing, recruits will go to Marine Corps Boot Camp at either Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island or Marine Corps Recruit Dept San Diego.
Boot Camp is 13 weeks and is known as one of the hardest in the Military.
Related Article: How to Join the US Marine Corps
What Does a Marine Corps Electrician Do?
Marine Corps Electricians use a knowledge of electrical theory and concepts to complete their tasks.
Electricians are in the Utilities role.
To troubleshoot any issue, electricians will complete testing.
Electricians use different tools to test an issue including ohmmeters and multi-meters.
They will test circuits for continuity, safety and compatibility.
They assist with electrical power generation equipment and flood light sets.
The Electricians provide assistance in a few different settings depending on the mission.
They can provide organizational crew assistance and support during Humanitarian and Civilian Military operations.
Electricians provide assistance on the interior and exterior of buildings.
They can install cross-arms, hardware, lightning arresters, insulators and string wire conductors.
Part of their job is to assemble, erect and climb utility poles.
When working with electric conduit, they will measure, cut, bend and install it.
Electricians will install switches, relays, circuit breakers and other control and distribution apparatuses.
They also install and repair electric fixtures.
In addition to completing repairs and installations, they also complete preventative and routine maintenance.
They will keep inventory of supplies and complete maintenance documentation.
As Electricians reach higher ranks, they have opportunities for advanced training that leads to increased job duties and functions.
Related Article: Marine Corps Critical Skills Operator (MOS 0372)
What Does a Marine Corps Electrician Get Paid?
Entering into the Marines as an enlisted member will get you a base salary of around $1800 a month during training.
As training is completed and individuals increase in rank, the pay will increase as well.
According to indeed, the average yearly salary for a basic electrician is just over $33,000.
Follow the table below for Marine Corps rank and pay.
| Insignia | Pay Grade | Rank | Abbreviation | 2023 Minimum Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 +4 months | Private | Pvt | $1,917.60 | |
 | E-2 | Private First Class | PFC | $2,149.20 |
 | E-3 | Lance Corporal | LCpl | $2,259.90 |
 | E-4 | Corporal | Cpl | $2,503.50 |
 | E-5 | Sergeant | Sgt | $2,730.30 |
 | E-6 | Staff Sergeant | SSgt | $2,980.50 |
 | E-7 | Gunnery Sergeant | GySgt | $3,3445.80 |
 | E-8 | Master Sergeant | MSgt | $4,957.20 |
 | E-8 | First Sergeant | 1stSgt | $4,957.20 |
 | E-9 | Master Gunnery Sergeant | MGySgt | $6,055.50 |
 | E-9 | Sergeant Major | SgtMaj | $6,055.50 |
 | E-9 | Sergeant Major Of The Marine Corps | SgtMaj | $6,055.50 |
Benefits
The Marine Corps also offers benefits that add to the base pay above.
All enlisted individuals will have housing paid for.
They are also entitled to tuition assistance, insurance and retirement.
Job Reviews
Entering into the Marines is difficult, but the atmosphere creates camaraderie that is discussed in the majority of reviews.
Most reviews of the basic 1141 Electrician position are positive, with the average rating around 4 stars.
Reviews also discuss the skilled training that is received and how it projects to civilian careers.
Marines mentioned discipline, life experiences and consistent pay as positive aspects.
Negative reviews discuss low pay and no overtime.
The review below provides information on an average day.
This review shows positive aspects of the position.
Related Article: Marine Recon (MOS 0321): Career Details
Civilian Career Opportunities
Marine Corps Electricians perform functions that relate to civilian positions involving electrical systems.
Although some additional credentials may be required, Marines can find jobs as Electricians or Electrical Engineering Technicians.
Other civilians careers that relate to the job duties of Marines Electrician, includes Home Appliance Repair, Electrical Power-Line Installer and Hazardous Removal Worker.
Most civilian electrician positions will pay the same or more than Marines Electricians, depending on the location and company.
Marines have access to USMAP.
The United States Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) is a program that allows Marines to earn credentials during their time in the Military and gain the required civilian apprenticeship hours.
This program consists of classroom and on-the-job instruction and results in a Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship.
Related Article – Marine Corps MOS List + ASVAB Scores: Details on all 123 Jobs
Summary
Marine Corps Electrician (MOS 1141) use electrical theory and concepts to complete electrical repairs, installation and maintenance on electrical power generation systems.
Individuals in this MOS work on both indoor and outdoor systems and provide support during Humanitarian and Civilian operations.
To enter into this Utility field, recruits must pass a strict physical exam and meet all entry requirements.
All enlisted Marines are provided base pay and benefits.
Previous Marine Corps Electricians recommend the position for the skills learned and camaraderie.
Working in this position provides skills that relate to civilian electrician and utility career fields.
Related Article: Marine Corps Military Police (MOS 5811)
References
- Marine Ranks and Basic Pay for 2023 - March 20, 2022
- USMC Tattoo Policy Changes For 2023 (15 Things To Know) - March 20, 2022
- Marine FAST Teams: 5 Things You Need to Know - October 31, 2021
