Electrician

As an electrician, you could:

• test electrical systems to make sure they're safe
•  build electrical control panels
•  service and repair electrical components in machinery
•  fit smart controls for lighting, heating and security systems
•  install electrical and fibre-optic cabling in homes and businesses
•  respond to emergency call outs

We've identified this as a potential green job

For an electrician to be a green job, you could:

• install solar panels on buildings
•  work on the roll out of electric vehicle charging points
•  service and maintain controls on low carbon heating and cooling units

Find out more about green careers

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• knowledge of building and construction
• maths knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• problem-solving skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with your hands
• customer service skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You may need an Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) card to prove you have the qualifications and experience to do electrical work.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• a work accreditation scheme
• applying directly

With experience, you could work in:

• site supervision
•  estimating and contract management
•  electrical project design
•  training and assessment

You might also become self-employed and set up your own electrical business.