Changing Career to Become an Electrician: Why EV Demand + JIB Rates Make It a Strong Move
If you’re considering switching career to becoming an electrician, now is one of the best times in recent memory. Between panic at the pumps, new laws demanding more EV charging points, and wage rises driven by JIB agreements, the landscape has shifted. For someone entering fresh, you can build a job role that’s secure, with strong earning potential and clear progress paths.
This article shows you how to become qualified, how to specialise in EV installation, and what you can r ealistically expect to earn — especially under the new jib electrician rates that are pushing pay up between 2026–2028.
What’s Driving the Demand
Several trends are making the electrician trade one of the best for new entrants:
- Petrol Shortage & Rising EV Interest: The recent fuel shortages highlighted how reliant many are on liquid fuels. Searches for “EV cars” have surged, and many people are now considering EVs not just for environmental reasons but for reliability and savings.
- Government Legislation for Built Environment: New laws require that all new homes and offices built from 2022 onwards include EV charging points. That means every new construction project needs wiring, circuits, compliance checks, and installers.
- Net Zero & Green Technology Push: Heat pumps, solar PV, battery storage, EV chargers — all are part of the Net Zero plan. More projects need qualified electricians who know not only “standard” wiring but also inspection, testing, and compliance.
These translate into increased demand for people trained in the trade, especially those who can adapt to modern electrical work like EV systems, smart charging, etc.
How to Become a Qualified Electrician in the UK
For a career changer, the route typically looks like:
- Start with foundational training — e.g. a City & Guilds Level 2 course (basic theory, circuits, safety).
- Progress to higher qualifications — Level 3 (more theory + wiring practice), followed by NVQ Level 3 and passing the AM2 (or AM2E) practical assessment.
- Gain compliance/certification knowledge — e.g. inspection & testing courses (so you understand what “safe” installations must verify).
- Specialise — EV charging installation is one of the fastest-growing niches. Getting the right course means you can plug into that demand.
For example, you’ll find places like Electrician Courses Wrexham or Electrician Courses Leeds offering courses for many of these stages.
Training Path & EV Specialisation
To gear up for the rising need in EV work, here are key components you should look for:
- Up-to-date training in Regulations (e.g. the latest Wiring Regs, the 18th/19th Editions).
- Specific m odules or short courses on EV charger installation, smart charging.
- Inspection & Testing knowledge, both theoretical and hands-on.
- Work-based experience: once qualified, you’ll often need to log site work, build portfolio items (for NVQ), etc.
Taking an ev charging course can be a differentiator. If you can do that alongside or after becoming qualified, you’ll be well placed.
JIB Rates & Earning Potential
Here’s where things get interesting for career changers: electric trade pay is rising. The JIB agreement for 2026-28 secures wage increases. Here are some of the current rates (or soon-to-apply) for different grades (site work) to give you an idea. Rates vary depending on whether transport to site is provided by your employer, or whether you use your own transport.
Grade / Role | Approx JIB Hourly Rate (National Standard, Transport Provided) |
Electrician (fully qualified) | ~ £18.38 per hour |
Approved Electrician / Advanced Craftsperson | ~ £20.08 per hour |
Experienced Worker / Trainee (Stage 3) | ~ £17.51 per hour |
Apprentice Electrician (Stage 1-4) | ~ £8.16 to £14.03 per hour depending on stage |
What does that mean annually?
- An entry-level electrician: once fully qualified, working full time, could expect gross earnings in the ballpark of £30,000-£40,000+, depending on region, overtime, and specialisms. (Regions like London or the South East often pay more.)
- Approved Electrician / Specialist level: tends to be higher. When you factor in extra pay for advanced skills, EV/renewables, or working on larger commercial/industrial projects, rates rise accordingly.
For comparison, Elec Training’s pay guide suggests:
- New starters: ~ £18,000 to £22,000 gross annually.
- Typical qualified electricians: ~ £33,500
- Master / Approved Electrician: £40,000 to £60,000 or more, especially with specialisms.
What Boosts Pay Faster
If you’re entering the trade, here are things you can do to accelerate income:
- Complete qualifications early (Level 3, NVQ, AM2).
- Add specialisms (EV charging, inspection & testing, renewables).
- Work overtime / evening / emergency call-outs.
- Earn nationally-recognised credentials: ECS Card, Gold Card, JIB Registered.
Putting It Together: A Path for New Starters
Here’s a sample timeline for someone who starts with little to no experience:
Stage | What You Do | Approx Time | What You Might Earn / Be Doing |
0 | Enrol on Level 2 diploma, basic electrical theory | ~6-12 months (depending on part-time/full-time) | Student / low-pay apprentice-rate (~£8-£14/hr depending on stage) |
1 | Move into Level 3, complete practicals + inspection & testing | Next 6-12 months | Apprentice or trainee wages, possibly moving towards ~£17-£20/hour grades |
2 | Complete NVQ & AM2, become fully qualified | Total ~2-3 years from start | Full electrician rates; potentially £30,000+ annually |
3 | Add EV installation and specialisms; regional premium work or overtime | Yrs 3-5 | Approved / specialist electrician rates, possibly £40-60,000+ depending on region & demand |
Why It’s a Good Time to Change
For someone switching careers:
- The petrol shortages and government m andates have made EV work less of a niche and more of a necessity.
- With jib electrician rates rising, the financial upside is improving.
- In many parts of the UK — for example, Leeds, Manchester, the Midlands — there are good course centres offering the core training you need.
Training Options Near You
If you’re ready to move:
- Start foundational electrical training with courses such as those offered via How To Become A Qualified Electrician in the UK.
- Many new entrants begin with Level 2, then Level 3 diplomas.
Local training centres can make a difference; pulling down costs and travel time. Two examples:
If you’re looking for a career change:
- Becoming an electrician with an EV specialism gives you a career in a field that’s growing rapidly.
- As of 2025-28, JIB rates are improving, so the base pay for electricians is rising.
- Starting with Level 2 → Level 3 → NVQ/AM2, adding specialisation (EV, inspection & testing) accelerates both your skill set and your earning potential.
FAQs on Becoming an Electrician in the UK for Career Changers (September 2025)
Below is a comprehensive FAQ addressing your questions about reskilling as an electrician, based on current UK industry standards and pathways as of September 17, 2025.
What is the typical training route for someone changing career to become an electrician in the UK?
The typical training route for career changers in the UK is the adult/fast-track pathway, designed for those aged 25+ with no prior experience. This includes:
- Starting with the City & Guilds 2365 Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (6–12 months, foundational theory and practical skills).
- Progressing to the Level 3 Diploma (6–12 months, advanced topics like design and testing).
- Completing the NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Services (6–12 months, via work placements and portfolio).
- Passing the AM2 assessment and 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382-22). Alternatives include the 4 Steps Programme (1–2 years) or Skills Bootcamps (4–16 weeks) for green skills entry, leading to the ECS Gold Card for independent work. Apprenticeships (3–4 years) are possible but less common for changers due to lower starting wages.
How long does it usually take to become fully qualified as an electrician?
It typically takes 1–4 years to become fully qualified (NVQ Level 3, AM2, ECS Gold Card):
- Fast-track/adult routes: 12–18 months for diplomas + 6–12 months for NVQ/AM2 (total 1.5–2.5 years).
- Apprenticeships: 3–4 years, including on-the-job experience. Experienced workers (via EWA) can qualify in 6–12 months. Factors like part-time study or placements affect timelines, but 2025 Bootcamps accelerate basics to 4–16 weeks.
Do I need prior electrical experience to start the Level 2 and Level 3 diplomas?
No prior electrical experience is required for the Level 2 Diploma (C&G 2365), which is designed for beginners with no qualifications—just basic literacy/numeracy and age 18+. For Level 3, completion of Level 2 (or equivalent) is needed, but no additional experience is mandatory—though practical exposure helps. Allied trades background can accelerate progress.
What qualifications are essential before I can work independently as an electrician?
To work independently, essential qualifications include:
- NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Services (C&G 2357) for competency.
- AM2 assessment for practical skills.
- 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382-22) for BS 7671 compliance.
- ECS Gold Card for site access and unsupervised work.
- Registration with a competent person scheme (e.g., NICEIC, NAPIT) for Part P self-certification. These allow legal, unsupervised installations; without them, work is limited to supervised roles.
How does specialising in EV charger installation benefit career changers?
Specializing in EV charger installation (via C&G 2921-34) benefits career changers by:
- Boosting employability in a high-demand niche (300,000 points by 2030, 160,000+ jobs).
- Increasing earnings 20–30% (£5,000–£12,000/year premium, up to £40,000–£60,000).
- Future-proofing careers amid EV growth (1.5 million vehicles in 2025).
- Offering quick upskilling (2–3 days post-qualification) for OZEV grants and MCS registration.
- Enhancing sustainability credentials and job satisfaction in net-zero projects. It’s ideal for changers, providing specialized entry after core training.
What are the current and future JIB electrician rates, and how do they affect earning potential?
Current JIB rates (effective January 6, 2025) include a 5% rise, with future increases:
- Technician: £20.43/hour (national).
- Approved Electrician: £17.90/hour.
- Electrician: £16.31/hour.
- Labourer: £12.59/hour. Future: +3.95% in 2026, +4.6% in 2027, +4.85% in 2028. These minimums boost earning potential (averages £38,760–£39,249/year), with overtime (1.5x–2x) and London rates (+20–25%) adding £5,000–£10,000. Specializations raise rates further.
Can I complete electrical training part-time while working in another job?
Yes, electrical training can be completed part-time while working, with flexible options:
- Evening/weekend courses for Level 2/3 diplomas (e.g., 2 nights/week, 1–2 years).
- Blended learning (online theory + in-person practicals) for 18th Edition or CPD.
- Part-time apprenticeships or fast-tracks (e.g., 4 Steps Programme) allowing full-time jobs. Providers like Trade Skills 4U or Logic4training offer schedules for employed learners, extending timelines but enabling income continuity.
How much can a newly qualified electrician expect to earn compared to an experienced Approved Electrician?
Newly qualified electricians earn £19,000–£32,000/year (pre-tax, £20k–£22k starting), while experienced Approved Electricians earn £40,000–£60,000 (or more in London/specialties). New: JIB £16.31/hour. Approved: £17.90–£20.43/hour, plus premiums for experience/specializations.
What extra courses (like inspection & testing or 18th Edition) help boost pay more quickly?
Extra courses to boost pay include:
- 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382-22, 3–5 days): Essential for compliance, adding £2–£5/hour.
- Inspection & Testing (C&G 2391-52, 5–7 days): Enables EICRs, boosting £5,000–£10,000/year.
- EV Charging (C&G 2921-34, 2–3 days): High-demand, 20–30% premium.
- Solar PV (C&G 2399, 3–5 days): For renewables, £5,000–£12,000 extra.
- Part P Domestic Installer (C&G 2393-10, 3–5 days): For self-certification. These CPDs accelerate to £40,000–£60,000 in 1–2 years.
Where can I find regional training centres, such as Electrician Courses Wrexham or Electrician Courses Leeds, to begin my journey?
Regional training centers include:
Elec Training
