What is an electrician’s mate?

Thinking about starting a career in electrics but not ready to dive straight into being a fully qualified electrician? Becoming an electrician’s mate is a great way to get hands-on experience, learn the trade, and build the skills you’ll need to progress. This role is perfect for anyone looking to get a foot in the door of the electrical industry.

What is an electrician’s mate?

An electrician’s mate is a trainee or assistant who supports qualified electricians on various jobs, from domestic installations to larger commercial projects. They help with basic tasks while learning the practical and technical skills required to become a fully qualified electrician.

The role often involves on-the-job training, so you’ll pick up knowledge about wiring, safety regulations and tools, while gaining valuable experience in real-world electrical work. It’s a stepping stone into the trade and a chance to decide which type of electrician you might want to become in the future.

What do you do as an electrician’s mate?

As an electrician’s mate, your day-to-day work involves supporting qualified electricians and keeping the job running smoothly. Typical electrician’s mate responsibilities include:

– Preparing work areas and tools for installations or repairs

– Assisting with wiring, cable laying and basic electrical tasks under supervision

– Checking materials and components for quality and compliance

– Helping with the installation and testing of lighting, sockets and other electrical systems

– Following health and safety regulations at all times

– Learning on-site practical skills while observing experienced electricians

What skills do you need to be an electrician’s mate?

While formal qualifications can come later, there are some key skills that make a good electrician’s mate.

Practical skills

You need a good level of manual dexterity and the ability to handle tools and equipment safely. This helps you to assist efficiently and avoid mistakes on the job.

Good communication

Being able to listen and follow instructions is essential, as much of your learning happens under the guidance of a qualified electrician. Clear communication also keeps the workplace safe and organised.

Problem solving

You’ll often be asked to help to identify simple faults or organise materials for a task. Thinking on your feet and offering practical solutions is highly valued.

Attention to detail

Electrical work is precise, and mistakes can be costly or dangerous. A keen eye for detail ensures that you follow instructions correctly and maintain high safety standards.

What qualifications does an electrician’s mate need?

In the UK, there are no strict formal qualifications needed to start as an electrician’s mate, though having GCSEs in maths and English can help. Many start with a Level 2 or Level 3 technical course in electrical installation or join through an apprenticeship. Below, we’ll explore the main pathways in more detail.

How do you become an electrician’s mate?

Becoming an electrician’s mate is a practical and accessible way to start a career in the electrical industry. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process. You can find out more about these pathways in our guide to becoming an electrician.

1. Choose your entry route

You can enter the field through two main pathways:

– Apprenticeship: A structured programme combining on-the-job training with classroom learning. It typically takes 3–4 years to complete and provides a comprehensive foundation in electrical work.

– Diploma: A faster-paced option, usually lasting 2–3 years, focusing on classroom-based learning and practical skills development.

2. Complete a domestic electrical skills course

Enrol in a course that covers essential domestic electrical skills. These programmes, often lasting around a month, teach you how to carry out basic electrical services under supervision. You’ll learn about tasks such as consumer unit replacement, lighting installation, and the installation of smoke detectors and underfloor heating.

 3. Obtain the Level 2 2365 Diploma

The Level 2 2365 Diploma is a foundational qualification that equips you with the necessary skills and theoretical knowledge for electrical installation work. This course typically includes 29 days of learning and practical experience over a three-month period, covering topics like electrical installation, inspection and testing, and electrical science.

4. Gain practical experience as an electrician’s mate

With your qualifications in hand, you can begin working as an electrician’s mate. In this role, you’ll assist qualified electricians on various projects, gaining hands-on experience and further developing your skills in real-world settings.

5. (Optional) Pursue your electrical career further

Once you’ve gained experience, you might choose to progress by completing the Level 3 2365 Diploma to deepen your knowledge of complex systems, renewable technologies and fault finding. From there, you can work towards becoming a fully qualified electrician via the Level 3 NVQ in Electrical Installation, which is assessed through a portfolio of your work experience.

Interested in a career as an electrician’s mate?

If you’re looking to train to be an electrician’s mate, explore our range of electrician training courses, or get in touch with our team, who will be happy to advise you on the best learning route for you.