Telecommunications Apprenticeships/Traineeships

Telecommunications apprenticeships or traineeships are a great option for people starting a career or moving into the telecommunications industry. Apprenticeships offer many benefits to both individuals undertaking them and to employers hosting them, providing a popular entry point into the industry.

Apprenticeships and traineeships pathways also allow participants to earn a living while gaining the skills they will need on the job.

What is an Apprenticeship?

It’s important to understand that the terms “Apprenticeship” and “Traineeship” essentially refer to the same thing, with the differentiation being:. 

An Apprenticeship is a contractual agreement between an employer and an individual. In this agreement, the employee will undertake appropriate training to fill the work role needed by the employer. The employer pays them a lower rate than a person with full qualifications while the employee works and continues to study.

A Traineeship combines paid employment with formal training through the nominated Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and on-the-job training supported by a workplace supervisor.

Here in Australia, it will literally depend on what state or territory you are in. In some locations, such as NSW, Telecommunications qualifications are Apprenticeships. In others, such as QLD, they are Traineeships.

Why should my company take on an apprentice?

  • Invest in your employees future
  • Promote industry best practices
  • Ensure safety compliance and culture
  • Attract and keep the best workforce
Telecommunications apprenticeship

What does JB Hunter offer its apprentices and hosts?

We offer a range of qualifications and other flexible training pathways. Because apprenticeships are a common entry point into the telecommunications industry, most of our qualifications can be achieved through an Apprenticeship or Traineeship. JB Hunter will liaise with all parties to develop a relevant and achievable training plan that will ensure that the training provided is relevant to the workplace so that the apprentice or trainee can further develop and practice the skills they gain through the formal classroom based training.

Types of Telecommunications Apprenticeships/Traineeships

Existing Worker Traineeships and Apprenticeships

An existing worker is an employee who has a three (3) month or more full-time equivalent employment relationship with their employer. An existing working relationship can be built up through full-time, part-time or casual employment or through engagement as a seasonal or contract worker.  It can also include periods of approved leave. Existing worker apprenticeships offer a great opportunity for workers wanting to formalise the skills and knowledge they have gained through their employment.

New Entrant Traineeships and Apprenticeships

When a manager signs a new employee into a traineeship or apprenticeship. For example if a company advertises for a new apprentice or if the apprentice has been with their current employer for less than three (3) months.

School-based Traineeships and Apprenticeships

School-based Apprenticeships are undertaken part‑time while the Apprentice is at school. A School-based Apprenticeship arrangement combines paid employment as an apprentice or a trainee, off-the-job vocational training and senior secondary school studies.

A School-based Apprenticeship provides senior secondary school students with hands-on industry experience, and the ability to work towards or complete a nationally recognised qualification, while they complete their senior school certificate.

School-based Apprenticeships provide an alternative pathway into the workforce

Funding Available

Government Incentives

Telecommunications linesworker and telecommunications technician are both trades listed on the Australian Government’s ‘National Skills Needs List’. As a result of this need for industry skills, there are a number of financial incentives available for eligible employers and trainees and or apprenticeships,  depending on which nationally recognised qualification is chosen. Find out more here. Or refer your Australian Apprenticeship support network provider.

Australian state level funding options for apprenticeships

For more information on obtaining funding in your state including details of eligibility and other requirements, click the links below.

 

Please note that JB Hunter does not have access to funding in the following locations:

  • Tasmania
  • Victoria
  • South Australia
  • Western Australia

In these locations, we provide the Traineeships and Apprenticeships on a Fee-for-Service basis.