How To Become A Level 2 Electrician
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Electricians are highly-sought tradespeople in Australia. Advances in technology mean that many properties are under-wired or, worse, are at critical levels where safety is a concern.
An electrician with a broad skill set has more work opportunities and a higher salary. If you’re already a level 1 electrician considering taking the next step to level 2, we’ll tell you the benefits and what you need to do to get to the next level and some frequently asked questions.
What Can A Level 2 Electrician Do?
The most significant difference between a level 1 and level 2 electrician is that they can connect and disconnect main lines. This is necessary when performing higher-level tasks.
Here are just some of the additional actions level 2 electricians can perform:
- Service line disconnect and reconnect
- Work on underground and overhead service conductors
- Relocate and upgrade switchboards
- Connect, upgrade, disconnect and reconnect metering
- Provide power upgrades
- Conduct necessary live work and testing
- Installation and connection of private A Poles
- Provide temporary power supply
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Benefits of Becoming a Level 2 Electrician
Learning additional skills increases your employment chances, and with that comes a salary increase.
Employment Opportunities
Your current employer will most likely reward you with more advanced project work and the opportunity to improve your skills further.
If you’re looking for a job with Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy or Essential Energy, being a certified level 2 electrician will increase your chances.
More Money
The more complex or dangerous the electrical task, the higher the risk and the more the customer needs to pay. Level 2 electrician work is charged more than level 1 work.
In your case, you can expect to earn extra, around $7 an hour more than a level 1. Over a year, that’s about $12,000 a year more. Think of what you could do with that, a deposit for a house, for example.
The Pathway to Becoming a Level 2 Electrician
Moving up the electrician chain requires combining on-the-job experience and further education. Prepare yourself for several years of dedication in both avenues.
Education
A level 1 electrician will already have studied Certificate II in Electrotechnology. To further your education to become a level 2 electrician, you must complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
This is a four-year apprenticeship course with 27 core units and 72 specialty units.
Some of the core units are as follows:
- Install low-voltage wiring, appliances, switchgear and associated accessories
- Design, install and verify compliance and functionality of general electrical installations
- Fabricate, assemble and dismantle utilities industry components
- Arrange circuits, control and protection for electrical installations
owever, If you’re considering going out alone as a sole trader sparky, you’ll need to further your education with the Accredited Service Provider (ASP) Level 2 pathways program.
There are some core prerequisite units you must study before taking the ASP pathways course, and they’re covered in Certificate III, as mentioned above. They are:
- UETDRIS010 – Install and maintain low-voltage overhead services
- UETDRIS011 – Install and maintain low-voltage underground services
- UETDRIS014 – Install and replace energy meters and associated equipment
If you hold a ‘Standard Electrician licence’ or equivalent, you may not meet the requirements for this course. You need to hold an ‘Unrestricted Electrician licence. However, contact Pathways and discuss your experience and current qualifications to see if you can apply.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Level 2 Electrician
What are the typical costs associated with the training and accreditation process for a Level 2 electrician?
When studying at TAFE NSW, the fee structure is provided closer to enrolment time, usually in January. A student’s personal circumstances also factor into the fees. The ability to apply for student loans or grants also impacts the final figure.
Can I work as a Level 2 electrician in other states of Australia, or is the qualification state-specific?
Australia has an automatic mutual recognition system in place for electricians who wish to relocate from NSW to another state. You’ll need to contact the State’s governing body to apply for the licence in that region.
Are there any ongoing training or recertification requirements for maintaining Level 2 electrician status?
A refresher course is required every year if you’re heading down the ASP road. It’s only a 1-day course and is a mixture of online content and instructor-led training.