Installs, tests, connects, commissions, maintains and modifies electrical equipment, wiring and control systems.

Examines blueprints, wiring diagrams and specifications to determine sequence and methods of operation; measures and lays out insulation reference points; selects, cuts and connects wire and cable to terminals and connectors; uses electrical and electronic test instruments to trace and diagnose faults; repairs and replaces faulty wiring and defective parts; positions and installs electrical switchboards; connects electrical systems to power supply; tests continuity of circuit.

• Works indoors, either at a service workshop or at client’s homes or businesses.
• Most workshop sites will be adequately heated and ventilated but off-site conditions will vary.
• Occasionally electricians need to work in awkward or confined spaces to access some electrical elements.
• Occasionally work from ladders is required when accessing electrical elements in ceiling or roof areas.

• The physical demand is sedentary to medium.
• Standing and Walking are frequently required on concrete floors in workshops.
• Sitting is not required.
• Stretching up and across is occasionally required as employees move and access internal components.
• Squatting, crouching, bending, kneeling or crawling is occasionally required.
• Twisting of the body or neck is occasionally required in carrying out many typical work tasks.
• Lifting, carrying or transporting is occasionally required.
• Climbing ladders and work at height is occasionally required.
• Repetitive movements are occasionally required especially in the use of hands and arms for screwing and unfastening bolts and attaching wiring.
• Driving is frequently required from site to site although some electricians may be located in a single site.
• Employees use a wide range of small hand and power tools including screwdrivers, wire cutters and jointers, electric or hand drills and electrical circuit testing equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include technical and problem-solving skills.

Electricians need to be registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). To apply for registration a National Certificate in Electrical Engineering and passing an electrical regulations exam is needed.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.