How to Become an Electrician
If you’re considering becoming an electrician in Australia, you can look forward to a long, rewarding and diverse career. You could choose to work in residential, commercial, or specialised sectors like the NSW electrical supply industry (ESI). There’s no doubt that electricians are crucial to keeping power flowing to homes and businesses across NSW. We often get asked how to become an electrician, so in this guide, we’ll explore the pathways to getting qualified and building an electrician career.
The essential qualifications – Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Becoming a licensed electrician in Australia starts with obtaining a Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Electrician). This base qualification combines practical and theoretical training, covering core electrical knowledge such as wiring, electrical theory, and safety protocols. Through this program, you’ll gain the skills needed to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in a safe and effective manner. Completion of this certificate is the first official step, and is usually done as an apprenticeship.
Gain hands-on experience through an apprenticeship
Alongside classroom training, practical experience is essential to becoming a qualified electrician. Apprenticeships usually last four years and allow you to work directly under experienced electricians. It’s a great way to learn from professionals while putting your theoretical knowledge into practice. During this apprenticeship, trainees learn hands-on techniques for wiring, troubleshooting, and working with electrical equipment while adhering to safety standards.
Pass the licensing examination to work as a certified electrician
After completing the Certificate III, electricians in Australia must pass a licensing examination. This exam is broken into three parts:
- Licensed Electrician’s Theory (LET): A written exam to test your theoretical knowledge.
- Licensed Electrician’s Practical (LEP): A practical assessment where you can showcase your hands-on skills.
- Safe Working Practice (SWP): This additional exam ensures you’ve got the required safety skills and knowledge.
You need to pass this exam in order to earn an electrician’s license. Once you’ve successfully completed the exam, you’re registered to work as an electrician.
How to become an electrician in the NSW electrical supply industry (ESI)
If you want to take your electrician qualifications in a different and rewarding direction, you can become an Electrical Supply Industry (ESI) worker. This means being an electrician in the electricity supply and distribution network, and in NSW this requires extra steps.
To work in the network you must be an Accredited Service Provider (ASP) Typically, electricians become Level 2 ASP professionals, however, there are other levels to explore, too. These courses for electricians provide you with the skills to perform specific roles in the network. Safety is also a major component of the training.
Once you complete ASP Pathway training, you can register as an ASP with the Office of Energy and Climate Action. You’ll also need to be endorsed by one of the three electricity distributors: Endeavour, Ausgrid or Essential Energy.
Want to start your career as an electrician?
IAC Safety Services provides comprehensive training pathways for electricians wanting to work in the ESI. In addition, we offer training for non-electrical workers, such as overhead powerlines training. Regardless of your previous electrical experience, there’s a rewarding career waiting. Contact us today for the best safety training in Sydney.
