National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Electrician for Registration) (Level 4)

This qualification is for people wishing to pursue a career as an electrician. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and electrical and electronic equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. The qualification has been designed to prepare trainees for a productive role in industry, and to cover the requirements for registration as an electrician under the Electricity Act 1992.

Typically, the qualification will be gained during the course of a three to four year training programme. Holders of this qualification have gained a range of knowledge and skills assessed both off-the-job (during courses conducted by accredited training providers) and on-the-job (in the workplace). As this qualification shares credits with the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 2) [Ref: 0174] and the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 3) [Ref: 0223] trainees also have the option of applying for one or both of those certificates.

Holders of this qualification have demonstrated:
. knowledge of electrical theory, concepts, and trade practice, usually assessed during off-job training courses
. skills and knowledge related to working safely in the electrical environment, including first aid, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, safe-working practices, and safety testing
. knowledge and application of relevant legislation, codes of practice, and standards
. knowledge of the New Zealand electricity supply
. competence in the practical skills of an electrician, usually assessed in the workplace. This includes installation of cables, equipment, and fittings in various environments, maintenance and repair of electrical equipment, and testing of installations
. generic skills and knowledge related to working effectively in the electrical industry, such as communication skills, report writing, and rights and responsibilities as an employee
. knowledge of the theory required for the registration of electricians.

The qualification also includes elective credits, reflecting the wide range of contexts in which electricians work. Trainees may choose standards that cover further skills and knowledge in the areas of electrical and electronic engineering, industrial processes, fire detection and alarm systems, and telecommunications.

Holders of this certificate may apply to the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) for electrical registration and a practising license under the provisions of the Electricity Act 1992. They must do so if they wish to do prescribed electrical work as an electrician without the supervision of a Supervisor of Electrical Work.

This qualification can lead to the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 5) [Ref: 0951] or the National Diploma in Engineering (Electrotechnology) (Level 6) [Ref: 1313].

This qualification shares credits with the National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Electrical) (Level 4) with strands in Electricity Supply Electrician, Electrical Fitter, and Electrical Technician [Ref: 1295].

Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere.

At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently.

With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world.

We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.