what is an electrical engineer?

An electrical engineer deals with electronics, power, control systems, and signal processing. You apply physics and mathematics to design and develop electronics. You rely on computer-aided design (CAD) to create schematics for electrical components and come up with simulations illustrating the system functions of electrical devices. You also carry out maintenance and test if the devices work properly.

what does an electrical engineer do?

As an electrical engineer, you work in various industries, including power generation stations, telecommunications companies, and instrumentation development companies. Despite their differences in specialization, all electrical engineers keep electrical systems up and running in organizations. They ensure all systems are well maintained and perform system upgrades promptly.

These engineers are responsible for planning and initiating electrical projects. Once a project is underway, they participate in the development process to the final installation. Furthermore, electrical engineers offer continuous guidance to company management on all electrical issues and supervise other electrical technicians.

You need various skills to become an electrical engineer, and these range from basic circuit theory to project management skills. You also require specialized tools like simple voltmeters, high-end analyzers, and advanced design and manufacturing software.

Would working as an electrical engineer suit your project management skills and mathematical aptitude? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an electrical engineer role.

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average electrical engineer salary

Would you like to know what an electrical engineer earns? Where the highest salaries are paid for an electrical engineer? Then check out this electrical engineer salary page and find out all about the salary of an electrical engineer in the USA.

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close up, smiling man
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types of electrical engineers

Electrical engineering is a broad field where you can specialize in different categories, depending on your preference. Here are some types of electrical engineers:

  • electronic engineers: As an electronic engineer, you design electrical components, such as circuit boards, for different devices and machines. Those who deal in very small components are known as microelectronic engineers.
  • power systems engineers: As a power systems engineer, you work in electricity production plants and are responsible for electricity generation, distribution, and monitoring.
  • telecommunication engineers: As a telecommunication engineer, you develop, install, and maintain telecommunication systems and equipment.
  • computer engineers: As a computer engineer with a background in electrical engineering, you work with software developers to develop computer hardware and software.
  • signal processing engineers: Your job is to analyze and alter digital signals to improve accuracy and reliability. You also regularly update digital signals for radio-frequency designs, military applications, and biomedical signal processing.
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working as an electrical engineer

Working as an electrical engineer involves the application of physics to design, develop, and control electricity and electronics. Here is a breakdown of electrical engineers' responsibilities, work environment, schedule, and job expectations.

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electrical engineer skills and education

You need more than just training to become a dedicated electrical engineer; willingness and commitment to tackle all technical tasks thrown at you matter as well. Apart from answering electrical questions, you need to be versatile enough to work on handheld gadgets and massive electrical grids.

Most companies prefer to hire entry-level electrical engineers with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Ideally, to have an easy time landing a job as an electrical engineer, consider taking a program that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) since most employers often look into this when hiring.

A four-year bachelor’s degree coursework in electrical engineering basically includes differential equations, electrical circuit theory, and digital systems design. It is important to be knowledgeable and adept in the science disciplines, which are physics and math.

In the first two years of your electrical engineering degree program, your professor will take you through calculus, linear algebra, and more to ensure you have fundamental knowledge in mathematics. Other courses included in the program are computer programming, basic engineering, and physics.

Aside from classroom work, a degree program in electrical engineering requires you to take part in field studies and laboratory work. Besides, you can go for a master’s degree after completing your bachelor’s degree. If you hold a master’s degree in electrical engineering, you can take jobs as an instructor at universities and colleges. Alternatively, you can have a private firm hire you in development and research positions.

skills and competencies

As an electrical engineer, you should consider learning some crucial skills because this can help increase your competitiveness in the job market as well as make you stand out to potential employers. As an electrical engineer, your top skills include a combination of software and programming proficiency (such as Matlab and AutoDesk), leadership skills (such as project management), and knowledge of engineering methodologies.

  • project management: Electrical engineers who have mastered this skill are likely to earn 6% more than the overall average, according to PayScale.
  • engineering design: This is an important skill that helps you identify problems and come up with solutions to them.
  • programmable logic controllers (PLC): PLCs are integrated into various electrical devices and equipment; hence, it is important to have a working knowledge of them.
  • Matlab: Simulink, a graphical programming environment electrical engineers use to model how designs are likely to perform, is one of the main components of Matlab.
  • AutoDesk AutoCAD: PayScale points out that AutoCAD is one of the most common skills for electrical engineers. To be more precise, it is in the top three, which makes it crucial to learn and master.
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two smiling males looking at mobile device
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FAQs about working as an electrical engineer

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about electrical engineers.

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