myfuture

Site navigation

Electrician
Engineering Tradesperson - Electrical/ElectronicsElectrical MechanicElectrotechnology Systems Electrician )



Duties and Tasks
Specialisations
Quick Facts
Work Conditions
Personal Requirements
Case Study
Related Industries
Labour Market
Related Jobs
Earnings
Related Courses
Further Information
State Specific Information

Occupation Video
 

Preparing an electrical outlet for installation
Preparing an electrical outlet for installation


Electricians install, maintain, repair, test and commission electrical and electronic equipment and systems for industrial, commercial and domestic purposes. Electricians may also work on electrical transmission and distribution equipment. 

Fact Sheet

Duties and Tasks

Electricians may perform the following tasks:

  • read electrical, architectural and mechanical diagrams, drawings or specifications to determine job requirements
  • plan the layout of wiring systems
  • test for, locate and repair electrical malfunctions
  • install electrical and electronic control systems and insulated cables
  • install electrical equipment such as storage heaters, water heaters, electrical signs, switchboards and motors
  • assemble and fabricate electrical and electronic components and appliances
  • connect electrical equipment to power supplies
  • connect switches, outlets and other fittings
  • connect circuit breakers
  • maintain automated production processes.

Specialisations

With experience and possibly some business training, electricians may specialise as electrical contractors, who order materials, organise staff to meet customer needs and carry out other tasks associated with running a business.

Electronics Serviceperson

Info Icon Quick Facts

Learning Area Industrial Arts  
Mathematics  
Physics  
Work Demand Including full use of hands/fingers  
Including good vision for detail  
Including mainly indoor work  
Including physical effort  
Including reading or writing  
Work Field Metal, Electrical and Automotive  
Work Interest Analytic or Scientific  
Practical or Mechanical  
Persuading or Service  
Skill Level Skilled Trade Jobs  
Quick Facts

Work Conditions

Electricians may work in workshops, in private homes or in manufacturers' factories. They may have a considerable amount of contact with the public. They may work in confined spaces and have to stand for long periods. They may also be required to work at heights on masts, towers and roofs.

Electricians must be aware of safety regulations and must often wear and use supplied protective equipment to minimise risks.

Personal Requirements

  • enjoy mathematical and technical activities
  • good hand-eye coordination
  • good eyesight (may be corrected) and normal colour vision
  • logical thinking and diagnostic ability
  • aptitude for mechanics and electronics
  • able to do precise and detailed work
  • able to work independently or as part of a team
  • physically fit
  • good communication skills.

Case Study

Engineering Success

Related Industries

Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing
Construction Services

Labour Market

Information

Australian JobOutlook for Electricians

Vacancies

Australian JobSearch for Electricians (ALL AUSTRALIA)
Work Opportunities websites

Related Jobs

(none)

Earnings


Income of persons working full-time, 2006
Electricians

Income per Week Number Share (%)
$1000 or more 35,112 46.0
$400 - $599 9,577 12.5
$600 - $799 10,640 13.9
$800 - $999 13,210 17.3
Less than $400 7,818 10.2


Copyright 2007 education.au

This information is based on the 2006 census conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.


Earnings of persons working full-time and part-time, 2006
Electricians

Employment Status Weekly Income ($)
Full-time 1,041
Part-time 542


Copyright 2007 education.au

This information is based on the Employee Earnings, Benefits and Trade Union Membership survey conducting annually by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

How Much?

Related Courses

New South Wales / ACT
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia

See State Specific Information below for further education and training options.

Further Information

Big Plans
Electricity Standards and Safety
ElectroComms and Energy Utilities Industry Skills Council Ltd
Minerals Council of Australia

State Specific Information

New South Wales / ACT
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia

Preparing an electrical outlet for installation
Preparing an electrical outlet for installation


Occupation Video - Apprentice Electrician

Video courtesy of ABC's Ace Day Jobs series

  • Apprentice Electrician
    'Apprentice Electrician'

  • Electrician
    'Electrician'

Footer Information