HOW TO MAKE THE CONNECTIONS FOR AN ELECTRICIAN’S CAREER
EDUCATION
To become an electrician you need a Certificate III in electro technology.
This includes block hours at TAFE and on-the-job training.
TAFE training occurs in stages throughout the four-year apprenticeship.
Each stage can vary between two to six weeks full time at TAFE.
Year 12 graduates start trade training fee free.
The qualification is a pathway to the Diploma of Electrical Engineering.
MORE TRAINING
The electrical industry is becoming increasingly technology based.
Specialised jobs in electrotechnology, communications, computer systems, refrigeration and airconditioning and security are available.
According to the Australian Government, 165,500 people were employed as electricians in 2015. Job openings during the next five years are expected to top 50,000.
PAY SCALE
A general electrician will earn about $50,000 to $70,000 per annum. Average hourly rate is $30-$35 per hour. Specialised electricians can earn between $80,000 to $120,000 per annum.
WHO TO CONTACT
You need to start with training and an apprenticeship and have an employer who will take you on. Skills 360 at Manunda is a good place to start. You will need to enrol in TAFE and find an employer, such as Winters Electrical.