What is an Electrician?
Electricians install, maintain, repair, test and commission electrical and electronic circuits in a wide variety of applications e.g. domestic, commercial and industrial building sectors. There are a number of specialised areas within the trade including building systems, lifts, communications, refrigeration and air conditioning as well as transmission and distribution equipment.
Examples of tasks and duties:
- Install electrical apparatus and control systems
- Maintain and repair apparatus and associated circuits
- Test apparatus and circuits
- Diagnose and rectify faults in electrical systems
- Read plans and specifications to determine electrical requirements
- Plan wiring system layout
How do I get into this trade?
You need to complete an Electrotechnology Apprenticeship. You will need very solid Year 10 English, Maths and Science to be considered for a school-based apprenticeship in Year 11 or 12. In addition, it is highly recommended that individuals will have completed the pre-apprenticeship course Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) whilst at school if wanting to be considered for a school-based apprenticeship.
Post-school, it is an industry expectation today that individuals wishing to secure an Electrical Apprenticeship will have completed the Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start), have a construction white card, driver’s licence and a car.
What does your career prospect look like?
Once you have completed your Electrical Apprenticeship, you can work as an Electrician with an experienced Electrical Contractor or undertake further studies to become an Electrical Contractor, Fitter/Equipment and Systems Technician, Project Manager or progress your career further by undertaking a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical).
Things to consider: