Maintenance Electrician

Spark your career in manufacturing.

As a Maintenance Electrician, you will diagnose, repair, and maintain the complex electrical systems that power manufacturing facilities, playing a critical role in minimising downtime and maximising operational efficiency.

Maintenance Electricians in manufacturing settings are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems and equipment in industrial environments. They play a crucial role in keeping production lines running smoothly and preventing costly downtime.

These specialists work with a wide range of electrical systems, from high-voltage power distribution to complex control circuits and automation systems. They must be adept at reading electrical schematics, troubleshooting issues, and implementing preventive maintenance programs to ensure the reliability of manufacturing equipment.

A typical day for a Maintenance Electrician might involve conducting routine inspections, responding to emergency breakdowns, upgrading electrical systems, and collaborating with other maintenance teams. They must stay up to date with the latest electrical technologies and safety standards, as manufacturing environments often incorporate cutting-edge equipment and processes.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Install and maintain electrical systems and equipment
  2. Troubleshoot and repair electrical faults
  3. Conduct preventive maintenance checks
  4. Upgrade electrical systems to improve efficiency
  5. Ensure compliance with electrical safety regulations

Becoming a Maintenance Electrician in manufacturing requires specific qualifications and licenses. Here’s how to pursue this career:

  1. Complete high school with a focus on math and physics, completing a Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) (UEE22020) or Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422) while at school would also provide some foundation skills
  2. Research employers looking for experienced workers or looking for a first-year apprentice in Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30811) or Certificate III in Electrical Machine Repair (UEE30620)
  3. Obtain an electrical license from the relevant state authority
  4. Gain experience in industrial settings and pursue additional certifications in industrial electrical systems
Also Known As:
  • Industrial Electrician
  • Plant Electrician
  • Electrical Maintenance Technician
  • Manufacturing Electrician
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a maintenance electrician include:

  • Analytical skills
  • Electrical troubleshooting
  • Problem solving
  • Safety awareness
  • Technical knowledge
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a maintenance electrician include:

  • Reliable
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptable
  • Team Player
  • Continuous learning
  • Investigative – “Thinker”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Chemistry
  • Engineering
  • Physics
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Engineering Skills

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Maintenance Electrician can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$75,000
Median
$90,000
High
$110,000

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment in this role. You can undertake the following qualifications as apprenticeships:

  • Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30811)
  • Certificate III in Electrical Machine Repair (UEE30620)

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

A maintenance electrician 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.

You could advance your career with the following qualifications:

  • Certificate IV in Engineering (MEM40119)
  • Diploma of Electrical Engineering (UEE50420)

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:

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