Thinking about becoming an Electrician but not sure where to start? Electricians are some of the most in-demand and well-paid tradies in Australia, with the average Electrician earning $85,000 per annum. Sounds good, right? But where do you begin?
When it comes to becoming a fully licensed Electrician, there are a number of different pathways you can take, depending on your circumstances. In this week’s blog, we’ll show you the most common path to becoming an Electrician in Australia, as well as options for career growth once you’re fully qualified.
Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Before you set foot on a job site, we recommend you undergo a 12-week Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Due to the risks involved with the work, entry requirements are more stringent than your average trade.
To be admitted into the program, you’ll need to undergo a range of tests to prove your suitability for the role, including literacy, numeracy, and basic computing skills as well as a vocational suitability test.
If you’re successful, you’ll go on to learn the theoretical background as well as get the hands-on training you need before beginning your apprenticeship.
While it’s not necessary, the Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program will make you a much more competitive candidate for an apprenticeship position, and many employers will not consider a candidate who has not completed the program.
Apprenticeship
With a 12-week course under your belt, you’ll now be a much more eligible candidate to secure an apprenticeship, and so it is time to find a licensed electrician to take you under their wing.
The apprenticeship usually takes approximately three to four years to complete and you will need to study at TAFE part-time as you go. Your pay rate will increase each year and upon finishing your apprenticeship, you will be a fully qualified Electrician with a Certificate III in Electrotechnology, ready to enter the industry as a contractor.
Career Options as a Licensed Electrician
Now that you’re a fully licensed Electrician, the world is your oyster. Tired of studying? Apart from the occasional refresher here and there, you’ll never need to go back again. Though if you’re looking for a challenge or a bigger salary, there are many different options you have for specialisation. Study options include:
- Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- Certificate IV in Electrotechnology
- Business and Project Management courses
Or you can take on short courses that will allow you to specialise as a:
- Residential Electrician
- Commercial Electrician
- Industrial Electrician
- Specialist Electrician
Each of these specialisations can add tens of thousands to an Electrician’s salary. Unlike most trades, there is no limit to the things you can do as an Electrician. With nearly endless career options for Electricians who are keen to put the hours in, the sky is truly the limit for what you can achieve!
Summary
While becoming an Electrician may be more attractive than most trades both in terms of salary and career progression opportunities, it is also much more complex. From being accepted into an Electrical Pre-apprenticeship Program, to securing your apprenticeship, to getting your qualification, to the multiple options for specialisation and progression once you’re qualified, knowing which path works best for you can also be a challenge.
If you’re scratching your head trying to figure out your next moves, whatever stage you’re at, it’s always useful to get in touch with our friendly team at YourTrades. As one of the leading trades and Electrician Recruitment Agencies in Queensland, our expert team has got you covered!
