Media release: Recruiting kicks off for annual power apprentice program

Recruitment for one of Victoria’s most sought-after apprenticeships has opened and applicants looking for a ‘high voltage’ career like no other are being encouraged to apply.

Electricity distributor CitiPower and Powercor are looking to fill 15 new apprentice roles based at Ballarat, Bendigo, Horsham, Kyneton, Cobram, Maryborough, Ardeer and Burnley. The roles include line workers, cable jointers, substation electricians and metering technicians.

More than 1200 people applied for the 10 apprenticeships last year and there has already been significant interest shown for the new positions.

CitiPower and Powercor’s Head of Field Services Ross Young said the program was popular as it provided an opportunity to get a start building an exciting career in diverse and essential industry.

“These apprenticeships demonstrate we are investing in our workforce and the communities we operate in,” Mr Young said.

“These apprentices will be helping support some of the biggest changes we’ve ever seen in the electricity sector, while continuing to deliver safe and reliable power to our customers.”

“Everyday is different in these roles, but customers are always at the centre of everything we do – whether it’s restoring power to homes and businesses during major weather events or upgrading the network to support our state’s transition to a cleaner energy future.”

The new apprentices will receive hands-on learning and training through Holmesglen TAFE. Their work will range from delivering our major works program to restoring power safely and quickly to customer if a fault occurs, often during extreme weather conditions.

Mr Young said the selection process was always difficult, with high quality applicants vying for the coveted roles.

“The right candidates will be team players and have a commitment to safety,” Mr Young said.

“These roles suit people who enjoy working outdoors and at heights, in all types of weather, and who have a passion for hands-on learning.”

“I’d encourage anyone interested to apply because you might be exactly the type of person we’re looking for.”

Candidates must have a minimum Year 11 pass in General Maths or currently be completing (or completed) a pre-apprenticeship TAFE training course in Electrotechnology (Cert II) to qualify.

Horsham’s Ben Lakin was selected as one of 10 apprentices from last year’s program and had found his feet quickly, settling into the team that services large parts of Western Victoria.

“This is a fantastic job and I’d encourage anyone who’s thinking about it to absolutely apply.” Mr Lakin said.

“If you want a challenging and rewarding career, then this is for you.”

Applications are now open via our careers page at https://careers.powercor.com.au and close Wednesday 29 September 2021.