Are you considering a career as an electrician? The electrical trade offers a world of possibilities, with a constant demand for skilled professionals and a host of benefits. Electricians are among the most sought-after tradespeople. But, in order to get there, you need to complete your apprenticeship, get certified, and find a job.
Not sure which trade is right for you? Check out our comparison guide to choosing the right trade.
Already thinking of starting your own electrical business? Check out the cost of starting an electrical business, before you jump in.
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First things first, there are some requirements to starting your journey towards sparky-dom, including minimum age requirements for an apprenticeship and recommended prior education.
Becoming an electrician can start with an apprenticeship. However, there are also education programmes that can provide a strong foundation and often reduce your time as an apprentice. Taking a pre-apprenticeship course gives you a theoretical understanding of the necessary skills to become a great electrician, such as physics and algebra, and is a great way of trialling the field before committing to a full apprenticeship.
For a full list of schooling options, check out our list of The Best Electrical Schools.
It can be a daunting process to find the right apprenticeship. You should look for a company that is willing to invest in your education and provide you with the right skills to set you up for the rest of your career. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to find an apprenticeship, including searching through online databases or reaching out to local businesses.
For more information, check out how to get an electrical apprenticeship.
When you find a company (or several) that you’d like to work for, it’s time to put your best foot forward. Writing a well-prepared CV is crucial for a successful apprenticeship application.
For more tips on creating an effective CV for electricians, check out how to write the perfect CV for an apprenticeship.
After you hear back, prepare for the interview process by researching what to expect during interviews.
For a sneak peek, check out our 'Top Interview Questions for Apprentices'.
These can help you prepare for the types of questions you’ll be asked on the day.
Remember, no one expects you to have all the answers on day one. It’s far more important to arrive with an open mind, a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic. But if you’d like to know more about what it’s really like to work in the trades, check out our YouTube channel for practical guides and advice.
Throughout your apprenticeship, your experience will be used as part of your training and certification. Your final certification is often tied to a theory test, taken towards the end of your last year. Once these have been completed, you are ready to venture forth as a fully-fledged sparky!
As a certified electrician, you’ll have the freedom to take on more challenging projects or explore different roles and possibilities.
After successfully completing your apprenticeship, you'll be well on your way to a promising career in the electrical trade. Your apprenticeship is where it all begins, so it's vital to make wise choices and seize opportunities to learn and build your reputation.
As a great, professional electrician, you can expect a high demand for your skills in the job market. Opportunities are abundant, whether you're interested in travelling, specialising in unique and challenging areas or even starting your own electrical business. That path can lead to more cash in your pocket and, if you're using Tradify, some extra free time for yourself.
Electricians who want to grow successful trade businesses use Tradify. Sign up for a free 14-day trial, or jump into one of our weekly live walkthroughs.