How to Become an Underground Cable Jointer
Becoming an underground cable jointer is an interesting and rewarding career pathway. Cable jointers are responsible for maintaining and connecting underground cables. This ensures the seamless flow of electricity to homes and businesses across NSW. People who are qualified in cable jointing can perform a range of tasks, such as laying cables, jointing cables, fault detection and repair.
To work as a cable jointer in the NSW electricity supply and distribution network, you’ll need to undertake training and register as an accredited service provider (ASP).
Consider your career options
Before embarking on training courses, the first thing to do is decide what you want from your career. The electrical supply industry (ESI) is a diverse and large network that offers a range of jobs. You might consider becoming an ASP Level 1 and working on constructing and maintaining network assets. Alternatively, become a Level 2 ASP and perform connections and disconnections.
Becoming an underground cable jointer opens you up to a world of possibilities. However, planning ahead ensures that you undertake the right training to support your career pathway.
Undertake necessary training
The next step is to undertake training. Usually, you’ll need an Australian Certificate III in ESI – Power Systems – Distribution Cable Jointing. If you’re just starting your career, you might also consider an electrical apprenticeship to give you a solid educational grounding. This can take 3-4 years to complete.
In addition to cable jointing courses, you also must complete electrical safety training. These courses are essential before registering as an Accredited Service Provider.
Register with the ASP scheme
You must be registered as an Accredited Service Provider (ASP) to work in the NSW network. There are different levels depending on the work you want to do, so it’s worth investigating this before you start any training. There are plenty of career pathways for a cable jointer, but you must have authorisation to work for one of the three electricity distributors.
To do this, you must apply to the NSW Department of Trade and Investment for registration. You’ll have to show evidence of competency before registration. Also, you must provide evidence of insurance, pay an application fee, and be authorised by Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy or Essential Energy.
Complete mandatory electrical safety courses
Finally, once you’ve started working as an underground cable jointer, you must maintain your ASP registration. Every year, you must complete mandatory ASP Refresher training. You can do this through IAC Safety Services to ensure you can keep working in the ESDN year after year.
Want to know more becoming an underground cable jointer?
If you’re keen on exploring a career within the ESI, IAC Safety Services is here to help. We offer a range of ASP training and electrical safety courses to ensure you have the skills and knowledge to build a successful career in the electrical supply industry. Whether you want to be an underground cable jointer or you’ve got another electrical career path in mind, we’ve got the training and guidance you need. Contact us today to find out more.
