At Technique Learning Solutions, people often approach us who want to become electricians but are confused exactly what they need to do to become ‘qualified’. We understand that it can be a bit tricky trying to negotiate your way through the minefield that is Electrical Qualifications which is why we have developed the below overview to break it down for you.
- Entry requirements
In the UK, You’ll need a level 3 electrical or electro-technical qualification to undertake electrical work. This can be a combination of qualifications from different awarding bodies.
Technique Learning Solutions courses all meet the entry requirements for the Industry.
(As of 2018, it will be law that any installations must follow the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations)
- Skills required
-You’ll need:
-Practical skills
-The ability to follow technical drawings, building plans and wiring diagrams
-The ability to work carefully, methodically and safely
-Planning and organisational skills
-Problem-solving skills
Don’t worry if you don’t already have the above, nobody is expected to be an expert on their first day. These skills are often learned over time and some people even specialise in the areas the feel most confident with. Most importantly, you need to be competent in the tasks you undertake. Competence is usually gained with experience and formal training.
- What you’ll do
You’ll work in range of areas, from bringing power to people’s homes to big engineering projects. You may also work with renewable technology, like wind turbines, ‘smart’ heating systems and solar power.
The field of electrics is already huge and is only predicted to grow.
Your work will depend on the type of electrician you are:
installation electrician – installing power systems, lighting, fire protection, security and data-network systems in all types of buildings
maintenance electrician – checking systems to make sure they’re working efficiently and safely
electrotechnical panel builder – making and installing control panels to operate the electrical systems inside buildings
machine repair and rewind electrician – fixing and maintaining electrical motors and transformers
highway systems electrician – installing and maintaining street lighting and traffic management systems
You may also supervise other people in a team.
- Salary
Starter: £18,000 to £23,000
Experienced: £25,000 to £35,000
Highly Experienced: Up to £42,000
You could get bonuses and overtime pay. There are national rates for travelling time, travel expenses and accommodation costs.
(These figures can vary depending on geographical location)
These figures are also a guide and aren’t definitive.
- Working hours, patterns and environment
You’ll usually work 30 to 40 hours, Monday to Friday. You may work shifts or be on call.
Some Electricians may have to travel between jobs and work away from home.
You may have to work around other trades. You may have to work in all weathers, in cramped spaces or at height.
- Career path and progression
With experience, you could move into design engineering, site or project management, consultancy work or training.
Another very popular option is to set up your own business.
This article has only just begun to scratch the surface the career you could have as an Electrician, but we hope it has given you an insight into what it might be like.
If you would like more information, have any questions that you would like to ask or simply to discuss your pathway into a new career, please call us on 01246802222 and we will be happy to help.
