Qualifications

How to Qualify

A career in Instrumentation and Automation combines traditional electrical knowledge with advanced skills in process control, industrial automation, measurement systems and digital technologies. Whether you’re an apprentice, electrician, technician or experienced tradesperson looking to specialise, obtaining the right qualifications is essential for building a successful career in this growing field.

Starting with an electrical trade qualification

For many professionals, the journey begins with an electrical apprenticeship. Completing a nationally recognised electrical qualification provides the foundational skills required to work safely with electrical systems, equipment and infrastructure. Many specialists begin their careers as:

Electricians
Electrical Fitters
Electrical Instrumentation Technicians
Industrial Electricians
Maintenance Electricians

An unrestricted electrical licence is highly regarded by employers and often serves as a strong foundation for further specialisation.

Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control

One of the most recognised qualifications in the industry is the UEE31220 Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control (or its future equivalent as training packages are updated). It develops specialist skills in:

Instrument calibration
Process measurement
Pressure, temperature and flow control
Industrial sensors and transmitters
Process control systems
Fault finding and diagnostics
Industrial communication systems
Safety systems and procedures

Many electricians complete this qualification as a post-trade specialisation to expand their career opportunities within industrial environments.

Certificate IV and advanced qualifications

As professionals progress, many undertake further study to develop higher-level technical skills. Popular qualifications include Certificate IV in Electrical – Instrumentation, Certificate IV in Industrial Automation and Control, Diploma of Electrical Engineering, Diploma of Industrial Automation, and Advanced Diploma qualifications in Engineering or Electrical Systems. These often focus on advanced topics such as PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial networking, control system design, project management, system integration, and data acquisition and analysis, helping professionals move into senior technical, supervisory and management positions.

PLC and automation training

Modern facilities rely heavily on PLCs and automated control systems, so many employers seek candidates trained on leading automation platforms. Common areas of training include Siemens PLC systems, Allen-Bradley PLC systems, Schneider Electric systems, SCADA software, Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Industrial Ethernet networks and automation troubleshooting. While not always mandatory, these courses can significantly improve employability and earning potential.

Engineering pathways

Some professionals continue their education through university-level engineering studies. A Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical, Mechatronics or Control Systems) can lead to careers in control systems engineering, automation engineering, project engineering, design engineering, systems integration and operations management, particularly within major mining companies, energy providers, manufacturing facilities and engineering consultancies.

Industry tickets and additional certifications

Depending on the industry and work environment, employers may require additional certifications such as Working at Heights, Confined Space Entry, High Risk Work Licences, Hazardous Area (EEHA) qualifications, gas testing certifications, Functional Safety training, mining inductions and site-specific competency training. These help ensure workers can operate safely in complex industrial environments.

Continuous professional development

A defining characteristic of the industry is the constant evolution of technology. New control systems, communication networks, digital monitoring tools and automated processes are continually introduced. Ongoing professional development through manufacturer training, industry certifications and advanced technical courses is essential to remain current with emerging technologies.