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Electrical or Telecommunications Trades Assistant Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-862918
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications0

Occupation overview

Assists electrical and telecommunications trades workers to install and maintain electrical and telecommunications systems.

What does a Electrical or Telecommunications Trades Assistant do?

An Electrical or Telecommunications Trades Assistant supports electrical and telecommunications trades workers with the installation and maintenance of electrical and telecommunications systems. The work may provide practical support to specialists such as electricians, auto electricians, refrigeration mechanics, electronic equipment technicians and instrumentation workers.

Specialisations

Air conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic AideAir conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic AssistantArtisan Aide ElectricalAuto Electrician AideAuto Electrician's AssistantElectrical HelperElectrical OperativeElectrician AideElectrician AssistantElectronic Equipment Mechanician AideElectronic Equipment Mechanician AssistantInstrument Artisan AssistantInstrumentation AideInstrumentation AssistantMeasurement, Control and Instrumentation (MC&I) AideMeasurement, Control and Instrumentation (MC&I) Assistant

How to become a Electrical or Telecommunications Trades Assistant in South Africa

  1. Build a foundation in electrical, telecommunications or related technical work through relevant school subjects and practical learning.
  2. Explore entry-level assistant, aide or helper opportunities with employers working in electrical, telecommunications, electronic, automotive electrical, refrigeration or instrumentation services.
  3. Develop practical experience by assisting qualified or experienced trades workers with the tasks assigned to you.
  4. Ask employers, accredited training providers and the relevant quality council about current training, assessment and progression options for this type of work.
  5. Confirm the current expectations for the specific specialisation you want to pursue, since requirements can differ between electrical, telecommunications, refrigeration, automotive, electronic and instrumentation work.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

There may not be one universal qualification pathway for this broad assistant occupation. Education, practical training and workplace experience may all help, depending on the specialisation and employer. Before enrolling, verify current qualification, provider and assessment details with an accredited provider, the relevant quality council or a prospective employer.

Useful school subjects

  • Mathematics
  • Physical Sciences
  • Electrical Technology
  • Mechanical Technology
  • Computer Applications Technology
  • Information Technology

Skills that may help

  • Following instructions accurately
  • Practical problem-solving
  • Safe and careful work habits
  • Using tools and equipment responsibly
  • Basic electrical and technical understanding
  • Attention to detail
  • Teamwork and communication
  • Willingness to learn from experienced trades workers

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.