Exploring Electrical Careers - Industrial Electrician

Choosing a career as an industrial electrician means working at the technical end of the trade: keeping complex systems running safely and reliably across WA’s industrial and infrastructure environments.

For pre-apprentices, school leavers, career changers and apprentices planning ahead, this guide explains what the role involves, how to get there, and where it can lead.

What does an industrial electrician do day to day?

Industrial electricians install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical systems that power heavy equipment, automated processes and critical infrastructure.

Day-to-day tasks often include:

• Installing and maintaining motors, control panels and switchboards
• Fault-finding across electrical systems and connected equipment
• Supporting automation systems (including PLC-based control systems)
• Inspecting, testing and maintaining plant equipment
• Responding to breakdowns to minimise downtime
• Working to strict safety procedures and site compliance requirements

Compared with residential work, the role is typically more system-focused. It often involves reading technical drawings, working alongside fitters and engineers, and maintaining equipment that runs continuously.

Typical work environments for industrial electricians in WA

Industrial electricians work across a wide range of settings in Western Australia, including:

• Mining and resources operations
• Manufacturing and processing facilities
• Utilities and infrastructure sites
• Water treatment facilities
• Ports and transport-related infrastructure

In Perth, industrial electricians may be based at fixed industrial sites. Others travel to regional or remote locations depending on their employer. Hours, rosters and conditions vary significantly between workplaces.

Industrial electrician salary in WA

As of February 2026, SEEK reports the average annual salary for Industrial Electrician jobs in Perth ranges from $105,000 to $120,000.

Actual salary outcomes vary based on:

• Industry sector
• Location and roster
• Level of experience
• Additional competencies and site requirements

Some roles attract higher pay due to shift work, regional conditions or specialised skills. It’s also important to note that no training course can guarantee salary levels or employment outcomes.

How industrial electricians differ from residential electricians

All electricians share a core foundation, but industrial electricians typically develop additional skills through workplace exposure and post-trade learning.

Common differences include:

• Greater focus on motors, automation and control systems
• Frequent work with three-phase power systems and industrial equipment
• Work in environments where strict procedures, permits and coordination are standard
• Less customer-facing work than domestic roles
• Strong emphasis on fault-finding, reliability and downtime prevention

Depending on the workplace, some industrial environments may also involve working around or in proximity to high-voltage systems, where additional training, authorisations and site procedures apply.

Skills that help you succeed as an industrial electrician

Industrial electrical work suits people who enjoy technical problem-solving and structured work environments.

Useful skills and attributes include:

• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
• Logical troubleshooting and fault-finding ability
• Confidence reading drawings, manuals and technical documentation
• Willingness to follow procedures and compliance requirements
• Ability to work with a multidisciplinary team
• Comfort working in industrial settings (including physical and environmental demands)

Training pathway to become an industrial electrician in WA

There isn’t a separate “industrial electrician licence” in WA. The pathway starts with the standard electrician training route, then you build industrial capability through experience and specialisation.

Step 1: Electrical pre-apprenticeship (optional, but helpful)
A pre-apprenticeship isn’t compulsory, but it can help you build foundation skills in tools, safety and basic electrical principles before you apply for an apprenticeship.

Step 2: Electrical apprenticeship and Certificate III
To become a qualified electrician, you complete an electrical apprenticeship and achieve the Certificate III qualification. WA guidance summarises this pathway as a four-year apprenticeship plus the required qualification and capstone assessment.

Step 3: Capstone assessment
For apprentices enrolled in UEE30820 Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, the capstone is completed via unit UEEEL0039.

Step 4: Apply for your WA Electrical Worker’s Licence
After completing the apprenticeship requirements (including capstone), you apply for your licence through Building and Energy. WA Government guidance outlines the evidence you need as part of the application process.

Until your licence is issued, you must continue working under appropriate supervision.

Step 5: Post-trade specialisation (where industrial careers often accelerate)
Many industrial electricians continue learning after qualification. Common development areas include:

• • Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and automation
  • High-voltage switching operations (where relevant to the role)
  • Instrumentation and control
  • Renewables and grid-connected systems

(CET offers post-trade training options including High Voltage Switching Operations.)

Building an industrial electrical career with CET

CET supports electricians at every stage, from apprenticeship training through to post-trade development. If you’re aiming for industrial work long-term, building a strong foundation first and then adding targeted skills is typically the most reliable pathway.

Explore your next step:

Explore electrical apprenticeship pathways at CET
Explore post-trade courses at CET