How to become an electrician
You can become an electrician in the NHS by completing a Modern Apprenticeship or applying for vacancies on our recruitment website.
What is an electrician?
In NHSScotland, electricians make sure that electrical systems, instruments, and equipment are safe and in good working order. They also find and fix electrical faults.
Starting your career as an electrician
Choosing subjects at school
To become an electrician, you'll need a good standard of education. Useful subjects include:
- English
- Maths
- Science
- Physics
- Engineering Science
Speak to your guidance teacher about subjects offered at your school.
Workplacements and volunteering
You may find it helpful to get some healthcare experience by doing a work placement or volunteering. You’ll get training, increase your knowledge, and learn new skills. This could help you when applying to university, college or a new job with NHSScotland.
Education and training pathway
Modern Apprenticeship
A Modern Apprenticeship is one route to a career as an electrician in the NHS.
During the programme, you’ll complete an industry-recognised qualification. You’ll learn how to carry out repairs and planned maintenance. Following procedures, statutory guidelines, and codes of practice are essential to this role.
Learn more about the Engineering Modern Apprenticeship.
Other qualifications
If you already have an Engineering Modern Apprenticeship, you can apply for vacancies on our recruitment website.
The following may be useful to have:
- HNC Engineering Systems at SCQF level 7
- HNC Electrical Engineering at SCQF level 7
- equivalent approved qualifications and experience
Get to know the role
As an electrician, you'll install, maintain, test, and repair plant and electrical equipment to make sure it can be used safely.
Tasks may include:
- carry out essential repair work and general maintenance
- work safely to prevent danger, avoid injury, and prevent damage to equipment
- use and maintain tools and equipment within safety guidelines
- isolate distribution boards in emergency situations
- run, test, and maintain emergency backup generators
- inspect, test, and verify fixed wiring systems
- inspect, test, and verify portable equipment
You'll need these skills:
- communicating
- collaborating
- focussing
- sense-making
- initiative
Plumbers work with the following:
- mechanical engineers
- maintenance assistants
- maintenance supervisors
- estates officers
You could work in:
- hospitals
- clinics
- other health and social care facilities
Learning and development
As an electrician, you’ll work towards completing the Estates Workbook. During your career, you’ll also need to complete specialised training in systems and equipment. It will help you gain the knowledge required to comply with standards, laws, and national guidelines.
Your NHS employer will confirm their training requirements during your induction.
Career progression
Once in the job, there are opportunities to progress. Support is also available to help you develop your skills and encourage you to take qualifications, including:
- HNC Electrical Engineering at SCQF level 7
- PDA Managing Self and Others at SCQF level 7
Gaining new qualifications will help you when applying for more senior roles, such as a maintenance supervisor or estates officer.
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