Industrial electrician in WA: what the job involves, salary, and training pathway
Choosing a career as an industrial electrician means working at the technical end of the electrical trade. Industrial electricians help keep large-scale systems operating safely and reliably across Western Australia’s industrial and infrastructure environments.
For pre-apprentices, school leavers, career changers and apprentices planning ahead, this guide explains what the role involves, the typical work settings, and the training pathway that leads into industrial work.
What does an industrial electrician do day to day?
Industrial electricians install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical systems that power equipment, processes and essential services. The day-to-day work is often more system-focused than residential work and typically involves fault-finding, maintenance and reliability.
Common tasks include installing and maintaining motors, control panels and switchboards, troubleshooting faults across electrical systems and connected equipment, supporting automation systems (including PLC-based control), inspecting and testing plant equipment, and responding to breakdowns to minimise downtime.
The role often requires interpreting technical drawings and documentation, working alongside fitters and engineers, and applying strict safety and site compliance requirements.
Typical work environments for industrial electricians
Industrial electricians work across a wide range of settings in WA. This can include mining and resources operations, manufacturing and processing facilities, utilities and infrastructure sites, water treatment facilities, and ports or transport-related infrastructure.
Some roles are Perth-based at fixed facilities, while others involve travel to regional or remote sites. Hours, rosters and conditions vary significantly depending on the employer and the sector.
Industrial electrician salary in WA
Salary outcomes vary based on the industry sector, roster and location, level of experience, and additional competencies required for the role.
As of February 2026, SEEK reports the average annual salary for Industrial Electrician jobs in Perth ranges from $100,000 to $120,000.
It’s also worth noting that no training course can guarantee salary levels or employment outcomes, because pay is determined by the job market, the employer, and the responsibilities of the role.
How industrial electricians differ from residential electricians
All electricians share a common foundation, but industrial electricians typically develop additional capability through exposure to industrial systems and post-trade learning.
In practice, industrial roles often involve a stronger focus on motors, automation and control systems, frequent work with three-phase systems and industrial equipment, and a heavier emphasis on fault-finding and system reliability. Depending on the workplace, industrial environments may also involve working around higher-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 structured problem-solving and technical systems.
You'll likely possess strong attention to detail, logical troubleshooting, confidence reading diagrams and manuals, and a consistent safety mindset are all important. Industrial sites also tend to be team-based, so communication and the ability to work alongside other trades and technical staff matter. Physical capacity and comfort working in industrial environments are also practical considerations.
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 workplace experience and specialisation.
Step 1: Pre-apprenticeship (optional, but helpful)
A pre-apprenticeship can help you build foundation skills and confirm whether the trade is the right fit before you start an apprenticeship.
Step 2: Electrical apprenticeship and Certificate III
To become a qualified electrician, you complete an apprenticeship and the Certificate III qualification.
Step 3: Capstone and licensing
Apprentices enrolled in UEE30820 complete the capstone unit (UEEEL0039) as their capstone requirement.
After completing the apprenticeship requirements, you apply for your electrician’s licence through Building and Energy. WA Government guidance sets out what you need to provide in the application.
Step 4: Post-trade specialisation
Many industrial electricians continue learning after qualification. Common development areas include automation and controls, instrumentation, high-voltage switching (where relevant to the workplace), and renewables or grid-connected systems.
CET offers post-trade options such as High Voltage Switching Operations, which is intended for electrical workers and engineers working with HV switchgear in industrial facilities and networks.
Build your industrial pathway with CET
CET supports electricians from apprenticeship training through to post-trade development. If you’re aiming for industrial work, the most reliable approach is to build a strong foundation first, then add targeted post-trade skills aligned to the environments you want to work in.
Explore your next step: Explore electrical apprenticeship pathways at CET.
