Further Information

• Electrical Engineering Technician- from: N.C.S. [UK]

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Electrical Technicians typically hold a degree with a specific electrical engineering focus. Engineering programmes are available at colleges and HEIs around the country, most of which have the option of pursuing an Electrical Engineering focus.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: engineering operations, engineering technology, cleanroom operations.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: civil, mechanical, electronics, engineering, technology, preliminary, carpentry, plumbing, electrical.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Electrical, Electrical Instrumentation, Industrial Electrical Engineering.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: general engineering, electronic, mechanical, engineering, electrical, services, energy, management, systems, renewable, electrical, automation.

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: electrical, electronic, engineering, structured, power, mechanical, manufacturing, process, automation, systems.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

Engineers Ireland To apply for the Engineering Technician title, you will need an accredited Level 6 qualification and three years post graduate experience. A list of Engineering Technician accredited programmes is available from Engineers Ireland.

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €35k - €75k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
CPL / Morgan McKinley / Lincoln/ WEI

Last Updated: March, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Electricians; electrical fitters; Telecommunications engineers; TV, video and audio engineers; IT engineers Electrical; electronic trades n.e.c. Skilled metal, electrical and electronic trades supervisors.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Employment growth for this occupation was well above the national average; employment grew strongly in the second half of 2022, significantly above pre-COVID levels. As the Census data indicates, electricians and electrical fitters account for the largest share of those employed in this occupation, with employment growing by almost 7,000 persons since 2016. 

There was a relatively high number of vacancies for electricians advertised through DSP Jobs Ireland in 2022. Employment permits mostly related to customer engineers and field service engineers and were for roles within the ICT sector. Difficult-to-fill vacancy mentions in the Recruitment Agency Survey were for electricians in the construction sector. There have been increasing numbers of new apprenticeship registrations for electricians in recent years (over 2,600 in 2022), with over 500 craft awards made in 2021.

Employment is expanding for this occupation with demand occurring across a variety of sectors. Although supply is considered sufficient for the housing sector (based on DFHERIS report), demand is being driven in part by energy efficiency and the green agenda. There also appears to be a shift in the skills mix required for electricians to energy performance in building, energy sector policy, maintenance and repair. Although no shortages are identified at present, they may potentially emerge if employment continues to grow at its current rate.

• Engineers Ireland

  • 22 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4
  • (01) 665 1300
  • Click Here

• Wind Energy Ireland

  • Sycamore House Millennium Park Osberstown Naas Co Kildare W91 D627
  • 045 899341
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here