What Does an Electrical Engineer Do?

Electrical engineers design, create and build electrical equipment and systems using their in-depth knowledge of circuitry, math, physics and computer science. From governmental defense agencies to telecommunications corporations, many industries employ electrical engineers. The average electrical engineer’s salary is around $100,000.

Electrical engineering (EE) is a branch of engineering involving the technology of electricity. Although this field dates back to the late 19th century, people in the modern world rely on the work of electrical engineers every day.

With an average of about 20,000 electrical and electronics engineer positions opening each year between 2021 and 2031, now is a great time to enter this profession. If you love mathematics, physics and computer science, electrical engineering may be your ideal job.?

Before you jump into this career path, however, learning more about the role is a good idea.?

What Is an Electrical Engineer, and Why Are They Important?

An electrical engineer invents, designs and builds electrical equipment and systems. They also test finished projects to ensure they work as intended and determine how businesses or consumers may use the systems or equipment.

Since electrical engineering is one of the most popular engineering degrees, it is no surprise that people who want to do meaningful work are entering this field. Electrical engineers have an essential job due to society’s dependence on electricity.

In this role, engineers create and maintain systems to help power everything that needs electricity, from power grids to electric windshield wipers to smartphone microchips. For this reason, in-depth knowledge and understanding of circuitry are essential.

10 Things Electrical Engineers Do

Electrical engineers may work on numerous projects, all requiring specialized knowledge and skill. Anything that uses electricity, including robots, cars and lighting systems, relies on the expertise of electrical engineers to exist and operate correctly.?

With that said, many electrical engineers have similar work tasks regardless of their industry. The major job duties of electrical engineers include:

• Evaluating and testing electrical systems, products and components.
• Designing ways to use electrical power.
• Developing construction, manufacturing and installation standards.
• Manufacturing and installing electrical equipment.
• Managing electrical projects.
• Solving electrical issues.
• Developing research programs.
• Creating and manufacturing new electrical products.?
• Performing quality assurance evaluations of electrical products.
• Complying with federal and state regulations.
• Collecting and inputting data.

Many subdisciplines in electrical engineering require more specific job duties, like signal processing, electronics and telecommunications. In these roles, electrical engineers would likely need additional training.

Where Do Electrical Engineers Work?

Here are some of the most common industries for electrical engineers:

• Research and development
• Automotive manufacturing
• Construction
• Marine
• Automation and robotics
• Materials and metals
• Utilities
• Defense
• Chemical

Electrical engineers can work for government agencies, corporations and non-profit organizations.?

The specific work setting for an electrical engineer will vary depending on their job and industry. Some electrical engineers work in office environments where they use computer software and other tools to design electrical systems, while others may work in laboratories, manufacturing or construction settings.

What Is an Electrical Engineer’s Salary?

The median annual wage for electrical engineers in May 2021 was $100,420.?

Here are the median salaries based on industry according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• Research and development in physical, engineering or life sciences: $125,080
• Semiconductor or other electronic component manufacturing: $107,190
• Navigational, measuring, electromedical and control instrument manufacturing: $102,110
• Electric power generation, transmission and distribution: $101,780
• Engineering services: $99,330

While working in particular industries is more likely to garner a higher or lower salary than others, additional factors also impact wages. Experience, skills, education level and location all affect an electrical engineer’s salary.

Final Thoughts on Becoming an Electrical Engineer

Becoming an electrical engineer can be rewarding and challenging. There are several opportunities and industries to choose from, but it takes time and dedication to learn the necessary skills.?

Electrical engineers need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering (or a related engineering field), and they also must gain experience through co-op programs or internships.?

This field constantly changes as new applications and technology emerge, so electrical engineers need to be flexible and willing to learn throughout their careers. Electrical engineers must practice professional development and continuing education to stay up to date in the field.?

Understanding math, physics, engineering and computer science is also essential for this career path. This is necessary knowledge to create and maintain electrical systems and designs.?

With the right education, experience and mindset, anyone can become an electrical engineer and make a real impact in the world.?

Top Takeaways

What does an electrical engineer do?

• An electrical engineer designs and invents electrical systems and equipment for consumer or business use.
• Many industries work with electrical engineers, such as research and development, auto manufacturing and government defense.?
• A typical electrical engineer’s salary is around $100,000.
• The average electrical engineer’s salary might be higher or lower depending on experience, skills, industry and other factors.
• Electrical engineering can be a rewarding, meaningful field for those interested in computer science, mathematics and physics.

(Reporting by NPD)