Negotiating pay when I have been out of work - what worked for you?

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as an electrician's helper. There are 17 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. I also do not want to sell myself short. How do you research fairly?

I gave a range based on local postings and said I was flexible depending on the whole package. They did not push back.