Electronics Tradesperson

Back to All Careers

Launch your career as an Electronics Tradesperson.

In this role you’ll apply your technical expertise to develop and maintain cutting-edge electronic systems across various manufacturing industries. From assembling intricate circuitry to testing cutting-edge devices, your expertise will be crucial in bringing innovative electronic products to life across various industries, ensuring they function flawlessly and meet the ever-evolving demands of our tech-driven world.

As an Electronics Tradesperson in manufacturing, you’ll play a vital role in the development, construction, and maintenance of electronic equipment and systems. This position goes beyond traditional electrician work, encompassing machining and design aspects of electrical systems. As a technician, you’ll find yourself working in diverse environments, from fitting workshops to mobile workstations, performing tasks that range from electrical maintenance to building custom switchboards.

In this multifaceted role, you’ll have the opportunity to work with a variety of specialised equipment and tools. Your responsibilities will include repairing electrical machines and motors, using precision measuring instruments, and operating machinery such as bench presses, drilling machines, and lathes. You’ll also be involved in the maintenance and repair of household electrical goods, showcasing the versatility of this career path. Whether you’re working on industrial equipment or consumer electronics, your expertise will be essential in ensuring the functionality and efficiency of electrical systems.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Make and repair electrical machines and motors
  2. Develop, construct, and test electronic equipment and associated circuitry
  3. Assess and evaluate the functionality of electronic systems and devices
  4. Assist engineers with data collection, testing, and documentation, identify and resolve issues in electronic equipment and circuitry
  5. Inspect designs and finished products for compliance with specifications and regulations.

To become an electronics tradesperson you don’t generally need a pre-existing qualification. Many employers will provide apprenticeship opportunities. The following steps can help you prepare or find a job as an electronics tradesperson:

  1. You may also find it useful to undertake a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422) while you are at school or before commencing an apprenticeship. This course will give you a good introduction to manufacturing concepts and equipment used.
  2. Research potential employers in your area via a search engine, social media or job site. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.
Also Known As:
  • Electronic Equipment Technician
  • Electronics Technician
  • Electrical Fitter
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a electronics tradesperson include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Manual dexterity
  • Problem solving
  • Safety awareness
  • Technical proficiency
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a electronics tradesperson include:

  • Precision
  • Patience
  • Collaborative
  • Analytical
  • Curious
  • Conventional – “Organiser”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Design and Technologies (7-10)
  • Engineering
  • Physics
  • Science (7-10)
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Engineering Skills
Related Industries

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for an electronics tradesperson can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$55,000
Median
$70,000
High
$90,000

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment as an electronic tradesperson. You can undertake the following qualifications as apprenticeships: 

  • Certificate III in Engineering – Electronic Trade (MEM30422)

As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary. 

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last up to 4 years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress. 

Work and study combination: As an apprentice you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.  

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria. 

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience. 

Skills, qualifications, accreditations and licences 

An electronics tradesperson may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.  

Qualifications that may be useful to advance your career include: 

  • Certificate IV in Engineering (MEM40119) 

Holding a degree in human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

Undertaking higher level learning at an undergraduate or graduate level in an engineering field would support deeper learning of technical concepts and theories, and support career advancement.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Mechanical Engineering Supervisor
Mechanical Engineering Supervisor

At the core of the manufacturing world, where precision meets innovation, the Mechanical Engineering Supervisor stands as the driving force behind cutting-edge technology and efficient production systems.

– Up to $150,000 salary

View Profile
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers are the driving force behind the systems that generate, distribute, and utilise electrical power.

– Up to $160,000 salary

View Profile
Business Manager
Business Manager

As a Business Manager, you’ll leverage data-driven insights and industry knowledge to make pivotal decisions, streamline operations, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement.

– Up to $150,000 salary

View Profile
Maintenance Electrician
Maintenance Electrician

Maintenance Electricians in manufacturing settings are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems and equipment in industrial environments.

– Up to $110,000 salary

View Profile
Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry
Related Careers
Up to $90,000 Salary
Engineering Technician
Go to Career Profile
Up to $105,000 Salary
Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic
Go to Career Profile