What's the role of an electrician in different military branches and how does the pay vary?

I'm in my junior year and thinking about becoming an electrician, possibly in the military. How does the role of an electrician differ between branches and is there any significant variation in pay?

In each branch of the military, the role of an electrician varies based on the equipment used and the operational environment. In general, electricians in the military install, maintain, and repair a wide range of electrical machinery and systems.

In the Navy, electricians may work on a ship's power systems, such as the electrical power generation and distribution systems, lighting, motor controls, and cableways. The Air Force might employ electricians to ensure the electrical systems on aircraft and other high-tech equipment are operational. In the Army, electricians could be tasked with the maintenance of power generation equipment, distribution systems, and the electrical systems of buildings and facilities used by the Army. The Coast Guard would also need electricians to maintain the electrical systems on their ships and at their facilities.

For the Marine Corps, electricians may be called upon to maintain and repair the wiring and lighting systems in the Marine Corps equipment and facilities. In the newest service, the Space Force, an electrician might work on intricate and advanced electrical systems related to space operations and equipment.

In terms of pay, your salary as a military electrician wouldn't significantly vary based on the branch you serve in. Instead, pay scales for military personnel are determined primarily by rank and years of service. As you advance in rank and accumulate years of service, your pay will increase accordingly. As an enlisted service member, your base pay would start at the E-1 level and could increase as you advance in rank and years of service.

Keep in mind, in addition to base pay, you might also receive allowances for housing and meals, along with special pay for certain skills or types of duty. For example, if you're assigned to sea duty in the Navy or Coast Guard, you may be eligible for sea duty pay. Some roles may also qualify for a signing bonus upon enlistment.

In sum, while the role of an electrician in the military depends on the operational environment of each branch, the pay is more constant and depends on rank and years of service rather than your specific occupation.