CitiPower and Powercor are on the hunt for 30 new apprentices to join the state’s largest in-house lineworker team that plays a critical role delivering essential power to more than 1.2 million Victorians.
The annual apprenticeship program offers candidates a chance to become lineworkers, cable jointers, substation electricians or meter technicans. The four-year apprenticeship positions are available across regional and metropolitan areas, including Burnley, Brooklyn, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Colac, Mildura, Warrnambool, Maryborough, Horsham, Kyneton and Echuca.
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The successful candidates will join a growing cohort of more than 200 apprentices employed by CitiPower and Powercor over the past decade.
Powercor head of operations and delivery Barry David said it was the only opportunity to join a Victorian electricity network business directly as an apprentice lineworker.
“Our apprenticeships provide the best start to what can be a fulfilling and lifelong career,” he said.
“No two days are ever the same as a lineworker. One day you may be replacing poles, upgrading powerlines or connecting the latest renewable project, and then the next you could be responding to a major weather event, helping get the power back on to homes and businesses.”
The new recruits will join a 700-strong in-house field workforce, with the majority of these having started their careers as apprentices with the business. The selection process involves written, practical and interview-based selection criteria. Last year, a record number of women joined the business as apprentices.
“Having the right people in these roles is as essential as the poles and wires that deliver the power,” David said.
“To make sure we are ready for the future, we are building a diverse workforce and want people of all ages, genders and backgrounds to apply.
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“We want people with the right attitude, who like working in teams, are committed to safety and are excited about contributing to their local communities. They’ll love outdoor work, they’re happy working at heights in all weather, and enjoy practical, hands-on learning.”
To apply, candidates must have completed, or be completing, Year 11 VCE or VCAL and achieved a pass in General Maths/Numeracy or have completed (or be completing) a pre-apprenticeship TAFE training course in Electrotechnology (Cert II).
