Recruitment begins for major mechanic apprenticeship program in Vic

CitiPower and Powercor are seeking 30 new apprentices to join the largest in-house team of technicians in Victoria, responsible for servicing more than 1.2 million customers.

The annual apprenticeship program offers candidates the opportunity to become an assembly worker, cable fitter, substation electrician or meter maker.

The four-year apprenticeships are available in regional and metropolitan areas including Burnley, Brooklyn, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Colac, Mildura, Warrnambool, Maryborough, Horsham, Kyneton and Echuca.

The successful candidates will join a growing group of more than 200 interns who have been employed by CitiPower and Powercor over the past decade.

Barry David, Head of Operations and Delivery at Powercor, said this was the only opportunity to join an electricity grid operator in Victoria directly as an apprentice fitter.

“Our apprenticeships provide the best start to what can be a fulfilling and lifelong career,” said Mr David.

“Our team supports our people in growing and building new skills and knowledge in this exciting field.”

According to Mr. David, the positions offer a diverse and challenging opportunity to provide essential electricity services to communities in nearly two-thirds of the state.

“No two days are the same for a lineman. One day you’re replacing poles, upgrading power lines or connecting the latest renewable project, and the next day you’re responding to a major weather event and helping to restore power to homes and businesses.”

The new recruits will join a 700-strong in-house field workforce, most of whom began their careers as apprentices with the company. The selection process includes written, practical and interview-based selection criteria.

Last year, a record number of women joined the company as apprentices.

“Having the right people in these roles is as essential as the poles and wires that deliver the power,” said Mr David.

“To ensure we are fit for the future, we are building a diverse workforce and want people of all ages, genders and backgrounds to apply.

“We are looking for people with the right attitude, who enjoy working in a team, who value safety and who want to contribute to the local community.

“They will love working outdoors, they enjoy working at height in all weather conditions and they love practical, hands-on learning.”

To apply, candidates must have completed or be completing VCE or VCAL Year 11 and achieved a pass in General Mathematics/Numeracy, or have completed or be completing a TAFE Apprenticeship Preparation Course in Electrical Engineering (Cert II).

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