What does an electrician do?

Depending on their chosen specialisation, the daily duties performed by an electrician will vary, though some of the common duties undertaken are installing, testing and repairing electrical systems and their components. You may be wiring new lighting fixtures in someone’s home, or diagnosing and repairing electrical faults with manufacturing machinery. You will use a range of hand and power tools, including wire strippers, drills and saws, as well as diagnostic equipment.

Tasks:

  • Maintain and repair faulty electrical appliances
  • Work from blueprints
  • Install switchboards
  • Remove potential electrical hazards
  • Assemble electrical and electronic equipment

What skills do I need to be an electrician?

Being an electrician is a technical, hands-on career. Electricians provide a service that is crucial to the running of any domestic, industrial or commercial premises. The potentially dangerous nature of the work requires logical thinking and the ability to manage risk to work safely in all situations. You must be able to work independently, follow electrical diagrams closely and communicate clearly with other workers and supervisors.

Skills/attributes
  • Able to cope with physically demanding conditions
  • Good eyesight
  • Cautious and methodical
  • Precise and detail oriented
  • Troubleshooting
Does this sound like you? Find courses now >

Specialisations

Electricians work in a variety of settings, performing a wide range of different duties. Finding the specialisation that suits you will depend on your proficiencies and the kind of working environment you prefer.

Electrical Motor Winding Tradesperson

A motor winding tradesperson works specifically with appliances and machinery. Whether it is installing or repairing, a motor winding tradesperson’s skills are required on a vast number of worksites, from factories, to commercial and/or domestic residences.

Electronics and Communications Technician

Electronic and communications technicians assist in identifying malfunctions and completing necessary repairs to telecommunication, broadcast, audiovisual and medical equipment.

Electronics Technician in the Army

An electronics technician working with the Australian Army specialises in the service and repair of military equipment. You can complete your training within the military and pursue an army-specific specialisation such as fitter armament.

Study pathways for electricians

Generally, becoming an electrician in Australia requires you to complete an apprenticeship or traineeship. You can then apply for an electrical licence in order to work unsupervised.

Top courses >

Getting Started

Find courses to put you on the right path to success in the electrical trade.

Explore your study options >

Skill Building

Learn practical and theoretical industry skills with targeted study options.

Find courses that fit you >

Professional Development

Get a head start in the electrical industry with courses that focus on skill-building.

Expand your qualifications >

Industry Recognition

Apply with your local government authority for an electrical licence following successful completion of your studies.

Jump to resources section >

Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your electrical industry career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.

Job Prospects and Salaries

A high volume of job opportunities for electricians is expected in the next 5 years. This trade is perennially popular as there is a wide variety of applications for electricians across numerous industries and environments.

Content
Building & Construction Courses
Find related courses and see more study options!