Do you enjoy practical work and have an interest in how electrical systems work? What is being an Electrician all about?
Electrician
So, what do they do?
Electricians install, service and repair electrical wiring and connect to power in all types of buildings from domestic to industrial. They can be employed across a wide variety of sectors.
Electricians employed by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) engage in electrical power supply and distribution. Those employed by electrical contractors are usually engaged in the installation of lighting, heating and power equipment and the repair of existing equipment and appliances, while those in industrial employment are generally engaged in the maintenance and repair of factory plant, machinery and generating equipment.
What type of person would make a good Electrician?
Electricians must have practical skills and the ability to use a variety of tools and equipment. Following safety procedures is an important aspect of the work. Electricians need strong problem-solving skills, be well organised, thorough and methodical. Good communication and interpersonal skills, are needed to work well with other electricians and professionals and to explain your work clearly to customers. Finally, electricians should be physically fit due to the nature the job.
OK, so how do I become an Electrician?
The main entry route to become an Electrician is through undertaking an apprenticeship. To become an apprentice in Ireland you must first be hired by an employer so it is advisable to contact electricians in your region to see if they have apprenticeship opportunities. Large bodies such as the ESB also take on a significant quantity of apprentice electricians each year. The Electrician Apprenticeship last four years, at the end of which you will be fully qualified to seek work with established companies or to work as a self-employed electrician.
Finally, are there jobs and what’s the pay like?!
Electricians are very much in demand. Registrations for apprenticeships have been increasing steadily in recent years, and employers are indicating difficulties in filling vacancies. There are almost 40,000 people working as electricians in the country with salary rates ranging from €38k - €60k.
If you are interested in finding out more information about what an Electrician is, what they do and how you might become one, just go to our Career Explorer where you will find detailed information on this occupation and over 1,000 other careers.
Hear from Hannah Shortt who completed an electrical apprenticeship and is working as a Network Technician for ESB Networks here.
You might also do some research on the Construction, Architecture and Property Sector and the Engineering, Manufacturing and Energy Sector which are all relevant to this occupation.
To research all Occupations, Courses and related information relevant to the STEM sectors, go to the following link.
CareersPortal
