SS
← Back to Electrician

How to become a Electrician in South Africa

Installs and maintains electrical systems in homes, industry and mines.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    N3 + Trade Test (Red Seal)
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Apprentice
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: Qualified Electrician
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: Senior / Wireman
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education n3 + trade test (red seal), then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R8 000
/month
Year 5
R32 000
/month
Year 10
R48 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • Wireman's licenceHigh
  • Industrial / PLCHigh
MID-CAREER
  • Industrial / PLCHigh
  • Solar PV installHigh
SENIOR
  • Solar PV installHigh
  • Fault findingMedium

Compare this career

Compare salaries
Electrician vs Plumber
Compare salaries
Electrician vs Welder
Compare salaries
Electrician vs Carpenter
Compare salaries
Electrician vs Boilermaker
Compare careersSee higher paying jobs