Conducts tests of electrical systems, prepares charts and tabulations, and assists in estimating costs in support of electrical engineers and engineering technologists.

Collects data, performs tests and calculations, graphs results, and prepares charts and tabulation; estimates materials, costs and quantities; inspects designs and finished products for compliance with specifications and regulations; assembles, installs, tests, modifies and repairs electrical equipment and installations to conform with regulations and safety requirements; undertakes electrical workshop functions, such as installing assemblies for protection relays, metering and indicating devices; assists with research and experimentation programs.

• Works indoors in electrical design and laboratory situations or outdoors on worksites including power generation and supply systems.
• Works in all weather conditions when outdoors and for significant periods of time on a variety of electrical installation, repair and maintenance worksites. Emergency situations may arise due to extreme weather leading to repair work or supervision being carried out in stressful conditions.
• Wears appropriate protective clothing and footwear and uses anti-static clothing/equipment.

• The physical demand is light to medium.
• Standing and walking is constant. Sitting is frequently required.
• Stretching and reaching across is likely to be frequent. May also need to climb. Occasional bending, squatting, crouching or kneeling and twisting of the body or neck.
• Contact with skin irritants or water is not a significant component of the job.
• Lifting, pulling or carrying is unlikely to exceed the light to medium physical demand level.
• Driving of vehicles is likely to be frequent for travel to worksites.
• Repetitive movements relate to frequent use of hand tools, and occasional use of computers for data entry and reporting.
• Use of hand tools/hand-held objects will include electrical tools, and testing equipment for voltage or signal-measurement, as well as computer-assisted design software and wiring/cabling plans.
• Mental skills necessary include technical, drawing, computing and problem-solving.

To become an electrical engineering technician a New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE) (Electrical) is needed. This qualification takes two years of full-time study to complete (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required. Registrations or licensing may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.