How to Become an Electrician: All Requirements

How to become an electrician now. There is a demand for Electricians in South Africa. The demand for skilled electricians is higher than the supply.

Want to Become an Electrician in South Africa?

Do you want to become an electrician?

This post takes you through the electrician requirements in South Africa. According to the Department of Higher Education and Training, the demand for electricians is high. This means electrician skills are scarce. If you have a scarce skill, consider becoming an entrepreneur, particularly if you’re struggling to find work. During times of high unemployment, firms take advantage of an applicant’s vulnerability even if they have a scarce skill.

Don’t be bullied into a low wage. Understand your market value, where you’re willing to compromise and negotiate accordingly. Research the salary trends in the industry and at the company.  

Become an Electrician: High Demand in South Africa

Electricians are in demand in South Africa, and the demand for skilled electricians is higher than the supply. This is due to several factors, including:

1. Growth of the construction industry: The growth of the construction industry in South Africa has led to an increased demand for electricians to install and maintain electrical systems in new buildings and infrastructure projects.
2. Ageing infrastructure: South Africa has ageing infrastructure, including power plants and transmission networks. These require ongoing maintenance and upgrades, creating a demand for electricians.
3. Lack of training and education opportunities: A shortage of training and education opportunities for electricians in South Africa has limited the number of individuals entering the field and available to meet demand.
4. Retirement of experienced electricians: As experienced electricians retire, there are fewer experienced professionals available to fill the demand for skilled electricians.

These factors have created a scarcity of skilled electricians in South Africa, which has driven up demand and made electricians an attractive career choice for those interested in the trade.

• Read More: How to Write The Best Electrician Cover Letter Templates

Steps to Become an Electrician

Practical experience is a key requirement for electricians to qualify. You can gain electrician practical experience in two ways:

1. Gain electrical experience by working as an assistant to an electrician. You can approach local businesses in your area. If it’s. small company you may need to volunteer as they might not be able to afford to pay you.
2. Apply for an Electrician Apprenticeship. Many TVET Colleges and private training providers offer electrician apprenticeships that are funded by a SETA.

To be an electrician in South Africa, take these steps:

1. Obtain a matric certificate or equivalent.
2. Enrol in a recognized technical college or apprenticeship program and complete a National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (N1-N6) or equivalent qualification.
3. Gain practical experience through an apprenticeship or by working as an assistant electrician.
4. Pass the Trade Test for Electricians, which is required for all electrician certifications in South Africa.
5. Register with the Department of Labour as a qualified electrician.
6. Consider obtaining additional certifications, such as the Registered Wireman’s License, to increase your professional standing and employment opportunities.

List of Electrician Qualifications and Skill Programs

Electrician Qualifications for Field 012: Physical Planning and Construction

Learning Subfield: Electrical Infrastructure Construction

Requirements To Become an electrician

It’s important to note that the regulations and requirements for electricians may change over time, so it’s a good idea to stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and requirements.

Electricians with a high level of training, experience, and certifications may find it easier to find work than those with limited skills and experience.

What do electricians do?

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

If you are applying for employment or an apprenticeship, use these terms in your electrician cover letter and CV.

Electrical Job Tasks

• Installing, maintaining and repairing electrical wiring systems and related equipment in various buildings.
• Examining blueprints, wiring diagrams and specifications to determine sequences and methods of operation.
• Planning layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment and fixtures, based on job specifications and relevant standards.
• Inspecting electrical systems, equipment, and components to identify hazards, defects, and the need for adjustment or repair.
• Selecting, cutting and connecting wire and cable to terminals and connectors.
• Measuring and laying out installation reference points.
• Positioning and installing electrical switchboards.
• Testing continuity of circuit.

Applying for an opportunity? Tip:

It’s important you outline your competencies according to the areas listed above. Try these electrician cover letter templates.

Be sure not to include anything you don’t know, focus on what you can do and highlight anything you are particularly good at.

Electrician Professional Requirements

Occupation Regulations

• All trades are regulated by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) through the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB).
• To become a qualified artisan you have to pass a trade test at a national trade test centre that is accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
• All national trade test centres are quality assured and recommended for accreditation by the NAMB.
  

Electrician Learning Pathway

Check for new occupational qualifications registered by the QCTO. New entrance requirements will be specified in each of the qualifications.

According to the Draft Trade Test Regulations (March 2013) electrician minimum entry requirements are:

• a minimum of 40% in mathematics (excluding mathematical literacy) at Grade 9 level or a National Certificate (Vocational) Level 2; and
• in the case of civil, mechanical and electrical categories of trades a minimum of 40% in the relevant N2 Trade Theory or the relevant vocational subjects of the National Certificate (Vocational) Level 2

Job Application Tip:

Be sure to list your qualifications in your CV.

Training to Become an Electrician Apprentice

• Do an apprenticeship under the mentorship of a qualified artisan.  An apprenticeship consists of a practical and workplace component that usually commences after the completion of the knowledge component.
• Find a learnership or a series of learnerships.  A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification.  It consists of knowledge, practical and workplace components that are learned in an integrated manner.
• Complete a learning programme that includes prescribed work experience, such as an internship after you have completed the knowledge and practical components.
• You can accumulate knowledge and experience over a minimum period while doing the work of an artisan that allows you to apply for recognition of prior learning (RPL).

The knowledge components refer to the N- or NCV programmes.

All the pathways end with a trade test at a national trade test centre that is accredited by the QCTO. To call yourself a qualified artisan and to perform functions that are carried out by qualified artisans, you have to pass the trade test.

Free MOOCs Can Help You Become an Electrician

Massive Open Online Courses can be a great way for electricians to gain new skills and advance their careers.

Here are some popular MOOCs that can be useful for electricians:

1. Coursera: Coursera offers a wide range of courses on electrical engineering and electrical systems, including topics such as electrical circuits, renewable energy, and power systems.
2. edX: edX offers courses on electrical engineering, electrical safety, and renewable energy, as well as courses that focus on specific electrical technologies, such as solar power.
3. Udemy: Udemy has a variety of courses on electrical systems, electrical safety, and electrical engineering, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of the electrical trade.
4. FutureLearn: FutureLearn has a range of courses on electrical engineering, electrical systems, and energy management, which can be useful for electricians looking to expand their knowledge in these areas.

These MOOCs offer flexible scheduling and the ability to learn at your own pace. MOOCs are a convenient and accessible way to further your education as an electrician. However, it’s important to keep in mind that MOOCs are not a substitute for hands-on training and on-the-job experience. Obtaining a certification from a reputable institution is generally preferred by employers.

Unemployment and Keeping Motivated

If you’re an unemployed electrician, it can be challenging to stay motivated. But remember that these are temporary times, and with the right approach, you can find a new opportunity.

Here are some tips to help you stay motivated:

1. Stay positive: Stay focused on your goals, and try to see this as a temporary setback. Believe in yourself, and your abilities, and that you will eventually find a job that fits your skills and experience.
2. Update your skills: Take advantage of this time to further your education or training, and expand your skill set to make yourself a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
3. Network: Reach out to your professional network and connect with other electricians in your field. Attend industry events, and participate in online forums to stay informed about the latest developments in your field and new job opportunities.
4. Stay active: Stay active and busy, and keep your mind occupied with hobbies or other activities you enjoy.
5. Be proactive: Don’t wait for job opportunities to come to you. Reach out to potential employers, send out your resume/cv and cover letter.

Remember, finding a job can be a process, and it may take time, but stay motivated and continue to work towards your goal. Good luck!

Search for your nearest trade test centre.

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