The Different Types of Electricians in Australia
Are you considering a career as an electrician or currently an electrical apprentice wondering what specialty suits you best? Understanding the different types of electricians can help you decide which path aligns with your interests and career goals.
Electrical Group Training (EGT) is the largest employer of electrical apprentices in Western Australia, providing opportunities across various industries. In this guide, we explore some of the different types of electricians in Australia, their roles, and the industries they serve.
Electricians handle many types of electrical jobs, but not all require specialised or further training. Getting your electrical license is the first step and may be all you need to start your dream career, but it is good to start thinking about what type of work and industry you are interested in.
The Main Different Types of Electricians
Whilst there are a host of specialisations an electrician may wish to work in, overall there are only three main ‘areas’ of work that an electrician may specialise in. These are:
Residential Electrician
A residential electrician specialises in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems within homes and apartment buildings. Their responsibilities include:
- Installing and repairing wiring, lighting fixtures, and electrical outlets.
- Diagnosing electrical issues in homes.
- Upgrading electrical systems to meet safety standards.
- Working on heating and cooling systems.
Commercial Electrician
A commercial electrician works on commercial buildings, such as offices, shopping centres, and schools. Their job involves:
- Installing and maintaining electrical systems in commercial spaces.
- Troubleshooting electrical components in businesses.
- Handling large-scale electrical installations.
- Working with emergency lighting systems and security wiring.
Industrial Electrician
An industrial electrician focuses on electrical systems within factories, manufacturing plants, and industrial facilities. Responsibilities include:
- Maintaining and repairing industrial electrical machinery.
- Working with high-voltage systems.
- Troubleshooting electrical issues in production environments.
- Installing and maintaining electrical components in automated systems.
Specialisations
Whilst the three above are the standard avenues for electricians in Australia, there are also some specialist types of electricians, and areas which electricians may like to specialise in throughout their career.
Construction Electricians
Construction electricians specialise in work on and the installation of electrical systems in newly built structures, including residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Their work involves:
- Wiring buildings from scratch.
- Ensuring compliance with electrical codes and safety regulations.
- Installing lighting, power distribution systems, and circuit breakers.
Maintenance Electrician
A maintenance electrician is responsible for the ongoing inspection, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. This role is crucial in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting routine electrical system maintenance.
- Diagnosing and fixing electrical faults.
- Ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Emergency Electricians
Emergency electricians provide 24/7 electrical services for urgent electrical problems, such as power outages, faulty wiring, and electrical fires. Their role includes:
- Responding quickly to electrical emergencies.
- Repairing faulty electrical components to restore power.
- Ensuring the safety of electrical systems.
Appliance Electricians
Appliance electricians specialise in installing and repairing household and commercial appliances, such as ovens, refrigerators, and air conditioning units. Their job includes:
- Diagnosing electrical faults in appliances.
- Replacing damaged electrical components.
- Ensuring electrical appliances function efficiently.
Renewable Energy Electricians
Solar panel electricians install and maintain renewable energy appliances such as solar energy systems in homes and businesses. Their responsibilities include:
- Installing solar panels and battery storage systems.
- Connecting solar systems to the electrical grid.
- Performing maintenance and troubleshooting on solar power systems.
Automotive Electricians
An automotive electrician works on electrical systems in vehicles, including cars, trucks, and heavy machinery. Responsibilities include:
- Diagnosing and repairing electrical faults in vehicles.
- Installing and maintaining vehicle lighting and electronic systems.
- Performing vehicle diagnostics and troubleshooting.
What Type of Electrician Gets Paid the Most?
Salaries vary depending on specialisation and experience. Typically, industrial electricians, and solar panel electricians earn higher wages due to their expertise and licensing requirements.
Emergency electricians also command higher rates due to the urgency of their work.
What is the Most Common Type of Electrician?
The most common electricians in Australia include residential, commercial, and industrial electricians. These fields offer plenty of job opportunities and career progression options.
Looking to become an Electrician?
If you're looking for a job or an apprenticeship, EGT offers industry-leading training and employment opportunities for aspiring electricians. As the largest employer of electrical apprentices in WA, we provide hands-on experience and job placements across various industries.
How to Become an Electrician
- Complete an apprenticeship program through a registered training organisation (RTO) like EGT.
- Gain hands-on experience under licensed electricians.
- Pass the licensing exam to become a fully licensed electrician.
- Specialise in a field such as solar panel installation, industrial electrical, or maintenance work.
Kickstart Your Career in Electrical Work with EGT
Choosing the right type of electrician depends on your interests and career goals. Whether you want to work on residential buildings, industrial facilities, or commercial projects, there's a specialty suited for you.
Start your journey today with EGT – the leading employer of electrical apprentices in WA. Explore apprenticeship opportunities and take the first step towards a rewarding electrical career!
