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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationThe Electrician
The Electrician
Electricians install, connect, modify and maintain electrical systems, equipment and wiring. It’s a hands-on role with a lot of variety day-to-day.
Electricians need to be mathematically strong, detail-oriented, conscious of safety best practice and have an enthusiasm for solving technical problems.
Electricians in Australia: key statistics
Employed
128,300Median age
34Female share
2%She Builds The Future
What an electrician does
Reviews technical drawings and diagrams of a home to plan the electrical work.
Chooses, trims, and attaches wires and cables to appropriate terminals.
Utilises testing tools to identify and troubleshoot electrical issues.
Fixes or replaces damaged wiring and malfunctioning components.
Installs electrical panels and switchboards in designated positions.
Marks insulation points according to measurements.
Links electrical setups to the main power source.
Checks for proper circuit function and continuity.
How to get qualified
Electricians typically begin their career as an apprentice, undertaking the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician. Many complete the Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) as preliminary step before beginning an apprenticeship.
Once you’ve done an apprenticeship and the Certificate III Electrotechnology Electrician, you’ve met the minimum training requirements to become a licensed electrician. There are a range of opportunities to undertake further training to progress your career down the track. You can specialise, supervise teams, or run your own business.
Meet the electrician: Holly Bourke
Holly Bourke is an electrician and business owner. She runs her own electrical business alongside her wife Cass in the Hunter region of New South Wales. ‘I do installations and repairs on anything lighting, power and appliances,’ Holly says. ‘I love that every day at work is different. I get to transform people's homes and bring their visions to life,’ she adds.
An office job was never in Holly’s future. ‘I've always had a love for maths and using my hands,’ she explains. ‘I could never envision myself sitting at a desk all day.’ If you’ve got a similar drive to do something outside of the ordinary, Holly’s advice? ‘Just go for it and don't let anyone discourage you!’
Holly's top 5 tips
Research the company before a job interview.
Show you have a genuine interest in their business.
Research getting your white card before applying for jobs.
Get your first aid qualification too.
You won't know unless you ask.
Ask as many questions as you can.
Speak up if you feel uncomfortable.
Tell your boss if you don’t like how you're being treated in the trade.
Always remember that women are just as capable as any man.
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