Exploring Electrical Careers: High Voltage Electrician
Working with high-voltage systems is one of the most technically advanced and well-paid areas of the electrical industry. High voltage electricians play a crucial role in keeping WA’s large-scale infrastructure, mining operations and industrial facilities running safely and efficiently.
If you’re a licensed electrician ready to take your skills further, specialising in high-voltage work could be your next big step.
What Does a High Voltage Electrician Do?
A high voltage electrician installs, maintains and operates electrical equipment and systems that carry voltages above 1,000 volts AC or 1,500 volts DC. These systems are typically found in:
- Mining and resources sites
- Power generation and distribution networks
- Manufacturing plants
- Rail and transport systems
- Utilities and substations
Their responsibilities often include switching and isolating HV equipment, testing circuits, fault diagnosis, and ensuring compliance with strict safety procedures.
How to Become a High Voltage Electrician
To work on high-voltage systems in Western Australia, you must first be a licensed electrician. From there, you can complete a post-trade High Voltage Switching Operations course through a registered training organisation like CET.
The typical pathway:
- Complete your electrical apprenticeship and obtain your electrical licence.
- Gain on-the-job experience in industrial or commercial environments where HV systems are used.
- Undertake specialised post-trade training, such as CET’s High Voltage Switching Operations course
- Apply your new qualification to work on HV networks safely and competently.
Undertaking a post-trade course in High Voltage Switching is important to properly equip yourself with the practical skills and knowledge to plan, operate and maintain HV systems in compliance with WA safety regulations.
High Voltage Electrician Salary and Pay Range
High voltage electricians earn some of the highest salaries in the trade. Pay can vary depending on location, experience and industry sector, but generally ranges from $120,000 to over $190,000 per year for full-time roles in mining and energy, with the median income being about $175,000 in Western Australia.
Even entry-level HV-qualified electricians typically earn more than standard licensed electricians due to the technical nature of the work and the additional responsibility involved.
Factors that influence pay:
- Level of HV experience and certification
- Industry (mining, utilities, heavy industry, etc.)
- Remote or FIFO work arrangements
- Leadership or supervisory roles
Why Specialise in High Voltage Work?
- Higher earning potential compared to general electrical roles
- In-demand skillset across WA’s mining, energy and infrastructure sectors
- Expanded career opportunities, including team leadership and maintenance supervision
- Stronger safety and compliance expertise
- Pathway into engineering or electrical management roles
High voltage switching is a valued skill set that can also open opportunities interstate.
Course Spotlight: CET’s High Voltage Switching Operations
CET’s High Voltage Switching Operations course is designed for licensed electricians, engineers and technicians who need to perform switching, isolation and maintenance on HV systems.
The training includes:
- Developing HV switching programs
- Preparing and issuing access permits
- Carrying out switching operations
- Identifying hazards and controlling risks
- Working to live-line and lock-out/tag-out procedures
Upon completion, you’ll be qualified to perform HV switching duties safely and competently, which will give you a major advantage in WA’s industrial and resources sectors.
Where This Pathway Can Take You
Once qualified, high voltage electricians can progress into roles such as:
- HV Switching Operator
- HV Maintenance Technician
- Electrical Supervisor or Team Leader
- HV Project Coordinator
- Commissioning Electrician or Safety Officer
With further study and experience, some move into electrical engineering, safety management or site supervision.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re a licensed electrician looking to boost your career potential, CET’s High Voltage Switching Operations course can help you gain the skills and accreditation required for one of WA’s most in-demand and best-paid electrical specialisations.
Enrol today and take your electrical career to the next level.
