How to become an electrician in New Zealand

Why become an electrician?

Electricians test, install, maintain and repair electrical systems and equipment.

There's a wide variety of job opportunities for qualified electricians. Electricians often become their own bosses as a contractor or business owner. Others become employed with power supply companies or work for a business supplying and maintaining electrical products.

A boom in building and construction, along with a staff shortage has fueled the demand for electricians. This makes electricians one of the most in-demand trades.

An electrician may choose to specialise in:
- low-voltage electrical work on houses, and commercial or industrial buildings, or
- high-voltage electrical work (over 1000 volts) on power stations, substations, and other sites.

Learn the foundations to become an electrician by completing a level 3 certificate program, usually about 32 weeks duration, followed by an apprenticeship, and get paid while learning on the job. Electrical apprenticeships usually take 2-3 years to complete.

Start your career in a high-growth industry by becoming a qualified electrician.

Alternative job titles

Sparky
Electrical engineer
Electrical contractor
Electrical fitter

Getting started

Understanding the best way to become a qualified electrician in New Zealand looks complicated but is easy. Here are the steps you need to take to start your career as an electrician.

Step 1

Choose and enrol with a registered training provider.

Step 2

Complete a level 3 certificate program.

Step 3

Gain an electrical apprenticeship.

Quick Facts

 

Average Pay

$50k - $105k annually

 

Length of training

3-4 years

 

Available Jobs

510*

*TradeMe Jobs, April 2022

Electricians need to be:

• Accurate and methodical

• Practical and logical

• Good communicators

• Able to work well alone or in a team

• Safety-conscious

• Good at problem-solving.

Careers and Industries (you will work in)

• Power-generation companies

• Transpower on the high-voltage national grid

• Self-employed and work for contracting businesses

• Run their own business