Ausgrid opens applications for 2027 apprentice program

newy.com.au – Ausgrid has opened applications for its 2027 Bright Spark Apprentice Program, seeking new lineworkers, cable jointers and technicians as the electricity distributor expands work tied to the energy transition.

The program offers on-the-job rotational training with experienced field teams across overhead works, underground works and substations. Ausgrid says apprentices will gain experience in the day-to-day work of building and maintaining the electricity network, as well as newer projects including community batteries, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone.

Ausgrid Group Executive People and Culture Celina Cross said apprentices were an important part of the organisation’s workforce.

“It’s such an exciting time to apply – from building and maintaining the electricity network and keeping the lights on, to installing community batteries, building electric vehicle charging infrastructure and developing the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone, our apprentices gain experience in a diverse range of work over the course of their apprenticeship,” she said.

“We are looking for people of all ages and backgrounds who want to join an organisation where people build long-term careers.

“This is an opportunity to join Ausgrid, working alongside experienced field teams, with supervision, support, and mentoring throughout a structured apprentice program.”

Graduate Protection Technician Lillian Starrett said the variety of work was one of the strongest parts of the apprenticeship.

“You can just choose so many different careers here, there’s no one way of doing things,” Lillian said.

“A moment that I’m proud of throughout my apprenticeship was being part of the upcoming Hunter Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone. It’s something that’s very new to our company and being an apprentice and being involved in that was very exciting. It gave me a real sense of purpose at work.”

Third year Cable Jointer Odin Zakarija said the program combined practical trade work with problem-solving and career development.

“Cable jointing fits in with my lifestyle and interests. The trade is hands-on but also technical, I get to work on the tools and problem solve,” Odin said.

“I’m not only learning my trade skills through the program but I’m also developing leadership skills.”

Second year apprentice Lineworker and mother Leanne Purcell said mentoring and work-life balance had been important parts of her experience.

“One of the things I love about Ausgrid is having good mentors that support that great work-life balance,” Leanne said.

“I think it’s great to be doing a job that my kids think is really cool – and if they still think it’s cool when they grow up, they can work here too!”

Women make up 24 per cent of the Bright Spark Apprentice Program, with Ausgrid saying it will continue initiatives to support women and retain a more diverse workforce that better represents the communities it serves.

Applications are open now, with more information available at ausgrid.com.au/brightspark.