Kickstart Your Electrical Career in the UK

Thinking about a job that mixes hands‑on work, good pay, and solid demand? Becoming an electrician could be the answer. You don’t need a university degree – just the right training, a bit of maths, and a willingness to learn on the job. In this guide we’ll break down the main routes into the trade, the types of work you can do, and how much you can expect to earn.

What Jobs Are Inside the Electrical Trade?

When people hear "electrician" they usually picture someone wiring a new house. In reality the field is broader. You could start as a domestic electrician fitting sockets and lighting in homes, move on to commercial electricians who keep offices and shops running, or specialise as a maintenance electrician who troubleshoots plant and machinery in factories. There are also niche roles like industrial control technician, electrical design drafter, and solar PV installer. Each path has its own skill set, but the core knowledge – safe wiring, circuit theory, and the UK Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) – stays the same.

Training Routes: From Apprenticeship to NVQ

The most common way in the UK is an apprenticeship. You’ll earn a wage while you work under a qualified electrician and study for an NVQ Level 2 or 3. The apprenticeship usually lasts 2‑4 years, and most employers cover the cost of the training materials. If you prefer classroom learning, you can enrol in a college course that leads to the same NVQ qualification; many providers now offer blended online‑plus‑lab formats.

Another fast‑track option is the Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or the City & Guilds 2365 course. These are shorter (often 6‑12 months) and give you a Level 2 competence, good for entry‑level jobs or for boosting your CV before an apprenticeship.

Regardless of the route, you’ll need to pass the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) card exam – the industry standard proof of competence. Once you have the card, you can legally work on most electrical projects in the UK.

So, what does a typical day look like? A domestic electrician might arrive at a job site, check the plan, run cables, install sockets, and test everything with a multimeter. A commercial electrician could be called in to diagnose a power outage, replace a faulty switchboard, and write a report for the client. Both roles require safety checks, clear communication, and a knack for problem‑solving.

Salary expectations are pretty attractive for a trade. According to the latest Office for National Statistics data, a qualified electrician earns between £28,000 and £35,000 a year on average, with overtime and specialist work pushing the figure above £45,000. Self‑employed electricians often charge by the hour (£30‑£45) and can scale up earnings by taking on larger contracts.

Looking ahead, the electrical sector is set to grow. The UK government’s push for net‑zero carbon emissions means more demand for renewable energy installations, smart‑grid work, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. That translates to more jobs and higher pay for electricians willing to upskill.

Ready to start? GoSkill Vocational Training offers a suite of courses that match the apprenticeship standards, from Level 2 fundamentals to advanced PV‑installation modules. Their flexible learning model lets you study part‑time while you earn, and they provide a dedicated mentor to help you pass the ECS card.

Bottom line: an electrical career offers solid pay, clear progression, and a future‑proof skill set. Choose the training route that fits your life, get the ECS card, and you’ll be on your way to a rewarding trade that’s always in demand.