Electrician
How to become an Electrician
What does an Electrician do?
An Electrician, also known as an Electrical Installer or Electrical Technician, is a skilled professional who installs, maintains and repairs electrical systems in buildings and other structures, ensuring they are safe and functional.
Their work involves wiring, lighting and the safe operation of electrical equipment. They work with traditional systems in buildings and/or renewable technology, as well as traffic systems and other engineering projects.
What are Useful Skills to have?
Analytical thinking
Problem solving
Numeracy
Attention to detail
Communication
How much can I earn?
Apprentice: From minimum wage
Entry 1-3 Years: Around £25k+
Experienced: Up to £60k
Self Employed: Set your own rates
Correct as of November 2025
What could I be doing?
Installations: Installing new electrical items such as wiring, outlets, switches and lighting fixtures, as well as programming computer-controlled ‘intelligent’ buildings
Maintenance: Regularly checking and maintaining existing systems to ensure they’re working correctly and safely
Repairs: Diagnose and fixing problems with electrical equipment, from faulty wiring to broken appliances
Testing: Using specialised equipment to ensure electrical systems meet the required safety standards
This is an exciting career path with a lot of responsibility.
As Electricians often use coloured wires in their work, you will need to undergo a test to ensure you’re not colourblind.
Electricians also often work in cramped spaces or from height and mostly indoors.
What are the Education Routes?
We advise you to apply to your college course as soon as applications open!
Students must have an employer before their apprenticeship begins.
Traineeship (Level 2)
Traineeships provide the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for a career in electrical installation.
They are an excellent option for those unable to secure an apprenticeship but wishing to start their journey to becoming an electrician.
This traineeship is available at three locations with SERC:
Apprenticeship (Level 3)
Electrical apprenticeships in Northern Ireland begin at Level 3 instead of Level 2.
It’s a 4 year course and requires you to have secured employment as an electrical apprentice with an NI employer, as well as minimum grades in your GCSEs.
Your local college website will let you know their entry criteria.
Belfast Met College - Millfield - Electrical
Northern Regional College - Ballymena/Newtownabbey - Electrical Installation
North West Regional College - Springtown/Strabane/Greystone - Electro-Technical Services
Southern Regional College - Greenbank/Armagh/Portadown - Electrotechnical (Electrical Installation)
South Eastern Regional Collge - Downpatrick/Lisburn/Newtownards - Electrical Installation
South West College - Dungannon/Omagh/Enniskillen - Electrotechnical Technology
Other providers may be available
