Electricians
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems. In the minerals and energy industry they are responsible for establishing and ensuring ongoing supplies of power from generators to plant and accommodation units. They may perform the following tasks:
- Repair and maintain all electrical equipment and process control;
- Maintain lighting, switches and electrical equipment in safe working order;
- Install wiring and circuits for extensions and additions to work sites;
- Carry out electrical fitting, high voltage switching and electronics;
- Maintain communications and telecommunications systems;
- Ensure safe work practices near electrical outlets;
- Read wiring diagrams to plan layout of wiring systems;
- Install insulated cables and connect switches, outlets and other fittings;
- Provide enough wiring systems for electrical plant;
- Connect cables to circuit breakers, transformers, motors, heaters etc;
- Test circuits;
- Connect systems to power supplies;
- Complete electrical calculations;
- Test equipment using meters, and
- Undertake high voltage switching
Skills needed:
- the ability to work under pressure;
- the ability to use time effectively to complete tasks;
- excellent verbal communication skills;
- the ability to work effectively with others;
- reliable, responsible, able to maintain alertness, must be assertive, have physical fitness, and
- knowledge of plant and safety awareness, commitment to company values.
Money
Electrician - Maintenance: $75,000 - $130,000+
Auto Electrician, Mobile Plant - Surface: $80,000 - $135,000+
Auto Electrician, Mobile Plant - Underground: $80,000 - $140,000+
Leading Hand: $85,000 - $135,000+
Source: www.hays.com.au (July 2008)
Pathways
Entry is generally through an AQF Certificate III or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification. For more information on training, visit the VET Courses section of the Education & Training tab above or our Apprenticeships & Traineeships page.
Mining companies and contractors are the main employers of tradespeople in the mining industry. Visit Current Vacancies for links to relevant employment websites.
