Electrician

Electricians are responsible for designing, connecting, and maintaining the electrical infrastructure that powers our society.

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Help power Australia

Be responsible for designing, connecting, and maintaining key infrastructure and electrical technology with a career as an electrician. Whether you choose to work in domestic or industrial settings, you’ll be responsible for creating and maintaining safe, effective, and energy-efficient electrical systems that power the daily activities of Australians.

A day in the life of an Electrician

Find out what our Electrician graduates have to say about their careers.

Key stats

Electricians enjoy higher than average salaries, and are in high demand by employers. Here are some key facts and figures about this career path:

$2,120
Average weekly salary
45 hrs
Average hours worked per week
34 yrs
Average age of people in this career
Multi-region
Jobs available in metro and rural areas
~189,400
People employed in this industry
86%
Of employees are full time
Below average
Unemployment for this industry
10.2%
Future growth (next five years)

Stats as of April 2024. Source: LabourMarketInsights.gov.au

Core skills of an Electrician

Working as an Electrician, you’ll have specialised skills in the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. Some of the core skills of Electricians include:

Designing electrical systems and networks

Work with builders and engineers to design the layout of electrical networks in different buildings, and be able to read and interpret blueprints and wiring diagrams.

Installing, connecting, and positioning electrical switchboards

Select, measure, cut, and install connecting wires and cables to electrical terminals, position electrical switchboards, and install connections to power supply.

Diagnosing, repairing, and replacing faulty systems

Use test instruments to diagnose and determine the source of electrical problems, and repair and replace faulty parts. Repair and maintain mechanical systems.

Repairing and maintaining mechanical systems

Using specialised skills and knowledge to fix and maintain mechanical operations in lifts, air-conditioning units, and other technologies.

Start here

Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career start)

Pre-apprenticeship

(The pre-apprenticeship is optional but recommended)

If you’ve already completed your pre-apprenticeship

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician

Apprenticeship

(You can begin your studies here without completing a pre-apprenticeship)

Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship

Licensed Electrician Course

Continue as a Licensed Electrician

Once you’ve completed your Licensed Electrician course

Electrical Contractor Course

Employment as an Electrical Contractor

You may also choose to pursue a dual trade to become a Specialised Electrician with the Certificate III in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration.

Why choose GOTAFE?

The skills you’ll use on the job

We work with the local industry to make sure your course covers all the skills you’ll need in the workforce.

The tools of the trade

You’ll learn using up-to-date tools and technology, so you know how to handle yourself on a real job site.

Strong industry connections

Our trainers have strong local connections and often recommend students to potential employers.

Need advice about planning your career? We’re here to help

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