Pathways

Pathways

Routes Into the Field

There are several pathways into HV, making it attractive to both new entrants and experienced professionals. While most enter as qualified electricians, opportunities also exist for engineers, technicians, and experienced industrial electrical workers. A combination of formal qualifications, practical experience, and specialised HV training is essential.

1

Qualify as a licensed electrician

Complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820) through an apprenticeship, then obtain an unrestricted electrical licence. Many then move into industrial, mining, or utility environments to work on larger systems.

Apprentice → Licensed Electrician → Industrial/Utility Experience → HV Electrician → Specialist / Supervisor
2

Build industrial experience

Work in industrial maintenance, manufacturing, mining, or contracting to gain experience with motors, switchgear, transformers, control systems, and distribution — a strong foundation before employers authorise independent HV switching or maintenance.

3

Enter via the electricity supply industry

Network operators and generation companies recruit apprentices, electricians, and technicians into structured development programs covering substations, transmission, protection systems, and switching — with extensive practical experience and clear progression.

4

Transition through renewables

Solar farms, wind farms, BESS, and pumped hydro employ electricians during construction, commissioning, and operations. Many move from commercial or industrial work into renewables by completing HV switching and commissioning training.

5

Specialise

Undertake further training in HV switching, protection testing, commissioning, substation maintenance, or engineering support — leading to roles such as Protection Technician, Commissioning Technician, HV Supervisor, Asset Maintenance Coordinator, or Project Manager.

6

Move into leadership

Further education in project management, engineering, business, or leadership opens supervisory, operations management, and executive roles — and many experienced professionals move into consulting, training, technical advisory, or their own contracting businesses.

Ongoing development is key

As renewables, battery storage, digital substations, and smart grids evolve, employers value professionals who maintain current competencies and keep developing their technical skills. HV offers multiple entry points and excellent progression across utilities, mining, renewables, manufacturing, and infrastructure.