As an electrical engineer you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of services such as lighting, heating, and ventilation. Duties could include working at heights or with power generating equipment.
These are the primary duties:
* Managing power generation, transmission and distribution
* Working with high and low voltage equipment
* Designing systems and products using computer software
* Working with renewable energy sources
* Managing and maintaining building services, such as lighting, heating, ventilation and lift systems
* Carrying out feasibility studies for new technical developments
* Drawing up project plans, making models, prototypes and circuit diagrams for high and low voltage electrical equipment
* Budgeting and estimating timescales
* Overseeing technicians and craftspeople
* Testing installations and systems
* Ensuring projects meet safety regulations
* Overseeing inspection and maintenance programmes
* Liaising with clients
* Managing maintenance programmes
* Working in factories, power stations, or research facilities, in a workshop, an office or outdoors.
How to become an electrical engineer
There are several routes to becoming an electrical engineer. You could complete a university or college course, or an apprenticeship. If you already have relevant skills or experience you may be able to apply directly to an employer or train on‑the‑job. You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
University / Graduate training scheme
You can complete a degree in electrical or electronic engineering, or you may choose a related degree such as electromechanical or building services engineering. You could also study mechatronics or applied physics.
You’ll need 2‑3 A levels (or equivalent) to do a degree. Afterwards, you may be able to join a company’s graduate trainee scheme.
* Find a university course
* Funding advice
* Equivalent entry requirements explained
College / Training provider
You might need to attend a specialist college or training provider in order to become an electrical engineer.
You could study for a Level 4 and 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
* Find a course near you
* Funding advice
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on‑the‑job experience and a college or training provider.
You would need to have A levels or equivalent to become an apprentice electrical engineer, as this is a higher apprenticeship.
* Guide to apprenticeships
Work
If you have relevant qualifications and experience in a related area, such as electrical installations or electronics, you may be able to apply directly to an employer.
If you are just starting out, you could apply for a job as an electrical engineering technician. You could then do on‑the‑job training with an electrical engineering company to qualify.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
* Find out more about work experience
Skills
* Knowledge of engineering science and technology
* Mathematics knowledge
* Knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
* Design skills and knowledge
* Be thorough and pay attention to detail
* Analytical thinking skills
* Excellent verbal communication skills
* Able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
Qualifications
* Level 3 NVQ in Electrical Engineering
* Level 3 Building Services Engineering Technician Apprenticeship
To Become an Electrical Engineer (Alternative routes)
* Level 6 SVQ at SCQF Level 7 Process Engineering Maintenance (Electrical)
* Level 7 Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation
Salary
The expected salary for an electrical engineer varies as you become more experienced.
* Newly trained electrical engineers can earn £90,000
* Trained with experience electrical engineers can earn £70,000*
Salary varies by location, employer, level of responsibility, overtime, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route.
* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources
Seniority level
* Entry level
Employment type
* Internship
Job function
* Engineering and Information Technology
Industries
* Construction
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