Automotive electrician

Automotive electricians repair and maintain rail and road vehicles. They use diagnostic tools to find faults in electrical systems, and then repair or replace parts and wiring.
Also known as: Electrician, Auto electrician

Is this role right for you?

As an automotive electrician, you must be able to adapt your skills to a wide variety of vehicles and electrical systems. It takes curiosity and imagination to identify what’s causing the problem when equipment breaks down. You’ll also need to collaborate with others to get the job done.

What are some example projects or experiences?

In rail, automotive electricians work on a huge variety of vehicles and systems. They operate special vehicles that can run on both road and rails to do their work. These vehicles have hydraulic cranes, boom lifts, loaders, welders, grinders, precision measurement tools, and more. Automotive electricians service heavy transport vehicles, excavation equipment, tunnel boring machines, trains, carriages, and freight wagons. They usually work from a workshop or depot with access to all the necessary diagnostic tools and maintenance equipment. From here they complete scheduled maintenance tasks, install new equipment, or conduct major repairs. They may be called to attend road and trackside breakdowns where they must work quickly to get vehicles back into service.

What is the work environment like?

As an apprentice, you’ll learn your trade from experienced trainers and senior automotive electricians. You’ll spend time in classrooms, workshops, and trackside as you complete your training and start your career. Once qualified, you’ll be part of a team that maintains and fixes rail vehicles. This includes trains, carriages and wagons, as well as maintenance and construction vehicles. You’ll work within the rail corridor alongside trains and in maintenance workshops.

Eligibility & pathways

Automotive electricians need a Certificate III – Automotive Electrical Technology. If you don’t have experience or qualifications, there are many apprenticeship opportunities which provide you with all the training you’ll need. You’ll complete a vocational training course and receive a certificate level qualification while you work. Typically, you’ll progress from an entry level position (apprentice) to more senior roles such as a team leader or specialist.

Current job vacancies

Electricians - Boyne Smelter 

Rio Tinto Group
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Electrician 

Liberty Onesteel Corporate Services Pty Ltd
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Electrician (Train Technician) | Rail 

Journey Beyond
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Industrial Electrician 

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Rail Industry Workers 

Connect Resources Pty Ltd
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Electrical Process Maintainer 

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Australia
 
Avenues of Entry
Trainee
Qualified
Apprentice
Pay Range
$85K
$112K
Mid-level
$85,000 - $112,000

Salaries may vary outside of these ranges, based on company size and location, level of experience, competence and time in role.