Electrical Apprenticeship

Undertaking an Electrical Apprenticeship can be the first step of a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Working in this industry, no two days are ever going to be the same. One day you could be solving complex circuit problems and the next you could be installing an appliance. Whichever electrical apprenticeship you choose will give you different daily challenges to face.

As an electrical apprentice, you will be able to work in real businesses while learning the workings of different electrical systems and equipment. An electrical apprentice can learn and earn in a variety of different settings, including hospitals, businesses and residential homes.

A problem-solving mindset is the most important attribute you need to have as an electrical apprentice. If you are happy using your investigative skills to overcome electrical issues, then this could be the ideal career for you. Attention to detail and maths are important attributes to have. You’ll also need to enjoy working in a variety of different conditions, such as working outside, working at a height, or working in a confined space.

Electrician apprenticeship duration

Studying part-time and working enables apprentices to finish an electrical apprenticeship in 4 years. Opting to study full time enables individuals to achieve a certificate in 2 years.

Typical requirements

The best way to ensure you meet the requirements for an electrical apprenticeship is to undertake an electrical pre-apprenticeship. This program will ensure you have all the basics of electrical work, and it will give you the best chance of securing an electrical apprenticeship with an experienced electrician.

There are also some other ways to secure an electrical apprenticeship. Some individuals will have work-related experience which gives them a good background in electrical work. If you think you already have the experience needed to become an electrical apprentice, it’s well worth completing a pre-selection assessment. This will help you to find out if you have the core skills needed to undertake an electrical apprenticeship.

One last thing is that many employers will ask if you have a driving license, so this is also a consideration for new apprentices.

Qualified electrician’s average wage

The average wage for qualified electricians in Australia is $41.46 per hour according to the Indeed website. The average wage was worked out over 36 months and based on 2,300 salaries.

More information about this calculation and Electrician wages can be found here.

Some of the more popular certificates include:

Electrotechnology Electrician Certificate III

The Certificate III in Electrotechnology will allow you to be recognised as an electrician. You’ll learn how to install, maintain and repair all power and electrical systems in industrial, commercial and residential buildings. Practical challenges enable you to pass each unit.

Renewable Energy Tradesperson Certificate III

The Certificate III Renewable Energy Tradesperson gives you the skills you need to install, maintain and repair renewable energy equipment and systems. Gaining this qualification can help you to become recognised as a renewable energy tradesperson. Undertaking practical challenges enable you to pass each unit.

How to find and secure an electrical apprenticeship

Australian Apprenticeships Pathways has information about apprenticeships, career pathways and handy aptitude quizzes. You can find a wealth of useful information related to electrical apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships here.

More information about the Electrical course Electrotechnology Electrician Certificate III can be found here.

Information about Renewable Energy Tradesperson Certificate can be found here.