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Whether it's a blown fuse or a more complicated problem, such as a faulty wiring system in your house, electricians are the people to call. Using a wide range of tools, from screwdrivers and powerdrills through to computers, they deal with electrical and electronic installations and repairs.
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical wiring systems that are designed to provide creature comforts such as heat, light, power and telecommunications systems or safety features such as signals or fire and security alarms.
Get Your Eyes Checked
If you're considering becoming an electrician, you'll need good eyesight and colour vision so that you can distinguish between the colour coded wires that you work with. And if you've ever seen how intricate some wiring systems can be, you'll understand that good hand-eye co-ordination, technical ability and being methodical and accurate are also important.
The duties and responsibilities for electricians vary between positions. Generally speaking, electricians read and interpret electrical or electronic drawings to determine wiring layouts. They install cables and connect switches (like the ones you turn your light on with). In undertaking these tasks, electricians operate a number of hand and power tools including electric screwdrivers or wire-cutters. These tools are also used when electricians assemble and install equipment such as electrical conductor enclosures and fittings.
Electricians also test various appliances and circuits, ensuring their integrity and safety. If needed, they'll repair and replace any faulty electrical apparatus.
On The Lookout
Working conditions can change dramatically from one job to another. You may find yourself working indoors, in buildings under construction or in need of repair, or outdoors, working on projects such as the installation of supply cables and street lighting.
Occupational safety and health are important considerations for electrical tradespeople. Electricians may be required to lift equipment and supplies weighing up to 16 kilograms, and there is also some risk of injury from accidental electric shock in this occupation. Being on the lookout for hazards and being safety conscious are as much a part of the job as installing the systems themselves!
Electricians usually work a 38-hour, five-day week, plus overtime when required. Those 'on call' are required to perform some after hours and weekend work.
Employment opportunities are dependent on the level of activity in the housing, commercial, industrial and mining sectors. Employment prospects are also dependent on the level of business investment in new technology, and sales of manufactured electrical appliances and equipment.
Industry contacts indicate that there are good job prospects for electricians willing to work regionally, particularly in Karratha and Port Hedland, and also at remote mining sites. Generally speaking, a shortage of electricians exists in WA.
A Life-Long Rewarding Career
''The electrical industry is experiencing rapid technological change, and therefore requires entrants to this field to have the ability to meet the demands of this flexible, challenging and life-long rewarding career. Positions and opportunities range from trade level through to middle management, engineering roles and business ownership,'' according to an Electrical Contractors Association spokesperson.
Some electricians are self-employed, while others work for contractors. Most jobs are in the building and construction, manufacturing, mining, energy and water supply industries. Those in the construction industry may experience layoffs between jobs, if not prepared to travel to where work exists.
With further experience and training, electricians may advance to supervisory, technician, engineering and management positions, with some electricians deciding to start their own contracting businesses.
Starting salaries for qualified electricians are between $32,000 and $35,000, with more experienced electricians sometimes earning up to $80,000 per year.
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