Electrical engineer
Electrical engineers design, build and maintain electrical systems, machinery and equipment.
Average annual salary (starting - experienced): £20,000 - £60,000
Typical hours (a week): 35 - 40
Related videos on an electrical engineer
How to become an electrical engineer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You can do a degree in electrical or electronic engineering. You may also be able to get into this career with a degree in:
- electromechanical engineering
- building services engineering
- applied physics
- aeronautical engineering
- mechatronics
University (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
You could do a Level 4 and 5 Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at college before looking for work.
College (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course
Apprenticeship
You could do an electrical and electronic technical support engineer higher apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Work
You could start as an electrical engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.
Direct application
You can apply for jobs if you've got qualifications and several years' experience in a related area of engineering, for example electronics.
More info
Further information You can find more details about careers and training from Electrical Careers and The Institution of Engineering and Technology.
What it takes
Skills & Knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- design skills and knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- persistence and determination
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
Restriction & Requirements
You'll need to:
- take a colour vision test
What you'll do
Day to day
Your day-to-day tasks depend on the industry you're in, but could include:
- carrying out feasibility studies for new technical developments
- drawing up project plans and circuit diagrams using computer-assisted engineering and design software
- estimating costs and project timings
- coordinating the work of technicians and craftspeople
- testing installations and systems, and analysing test data
- making sure projects meet safety regulations
- overseeing inspection and maintenance programmes
- attending meetings, writing reports and giving presentations
Working environment
You could work in a factory, at a power station, in a workshop, at a research facility or in an office. Your working environment may be at height.
Career path and progression
Career path & progression
You could work in different industries, from power and renewable energy to transport, construction and manufacturing. You can improve your career prospects with incorporated or chartered engineer status. Chartered status can help you move into electrical design and project management roles, specialise in a particular field, or work as an engineering consultant. The Engineering Council have further details on how to become a chartered engineer.
