What Jobs are Available for Electrical Engineers?
Professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain electrical systems, components, and products are known as electrical engineers. For a wide range of applications, they develop solutions based on the theories of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic.
Here are some common job titles and industries for electrical engineers:
- Electrical Engineer: Design, develop, and test electrical systems and equipment in various industries, such as power generation and distribution, telecommunications, and transportation.
- Power Engineer: Specialize in the design and development of power generation and distribution systems, including renewable energy systems, electrical grids, and electrical substations.
- Control Systems Engineer: Design and develop control systems, including automation systems, process control systems, and instrumentation systems, for various industries, such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation.
- Automation Engineer: Design and develop automated systems, including robotic systems, control systems, and software systems, for various industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation.
- Telecommunications Engineer: Design and develop communication systems, including wired and wireless networks, optical fiber networks, and satellite communication systems.
- Aerospace Engineer: Design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and associated systems, including propulsion, guidance, and control systems.
- Electronics Engineer: Design, develop, and test electronic systems, including consumer electronics, medical equipment, and communication systems.
- Renewable Energy Engineer: Design and develop renewable energy systems, including wind turbines, solar panels, and energy storage systems.
- Computer Engineer: Design, develop, and test computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks.
- Research and Development Engineer: Conduct research and development to improve existing electrical systems and equipment and develop new technologies.
These are just a few examples of the many types of jobs available for electrical engineers. The specific job opportunities available may vary based on location, industry demand, and an individual's experience and skills.
Here are some additional details about the job opportunities for electrical engineers:
- Job Growth: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of electrical and electronics engineers is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, certain subfields, such as renewable energy, are expected to experience higher growth.
- Salary: According to the BLS, the median annual wage for electrical and electronics engineers was $102,180 in May 2020. The highest-paying industries for electrical engineers include scientific research and development services, computer and electronic product manufacturing, and the federal government.
- Education and Training: A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field is typically required to work as an electrical engineer. Many electrical engineers also pursue graduate-level education to further their careers and specialize in a particular area of the field.
- Work Environment: Electrical engineers typically work in offices, but they may also visit worksites to observe and resolve problems with equipment and systems. They may work for engineering services firms, manufacturers, or the government. Some electrical engineers may also work in research and development, conducting experiments and developing new technologies.
- Skills: Electrical engineers need a combination of technical and non-technical skills to be successful in their careers. Technical skills include proficiency in electrical engineering software and hardware, as well as experience with design, testing, and troubleshooting electrical systems. Non-technical skills include strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work well in teams.
These are just some of the details about the job opportunities for electrical engineers. The specific opportunities available to an individual may vary based on location, industry demand, and their own experience and skills.