Electrical engineering graduates can find jobs in most engineering sectors. Read on to discover what you could do in just five of a long list of electrical engineering roles.
If you’re interested in electrical engineering careers by sector, you probably enjoy solving problems and thinking analytically. With the right training and technical knowledge from college, these skills can lead you to a career that’s both mentally stimulating and pays well.
Electrical engineering jobs cover many different areas, like scientific research, telecommunications, aerospace, manufacturing, healthcare, and energy. Electrical engineers work on complicated devices and systems that use electricity in these different fields.
Whether you’re considering studying electrical engineering or have already finished your degree, our guide is here to help you explore the many jobs available in this high-tech field. We’ll talk about different areas of electrical engineering and point out groups that can support you on your career journey.
Electrical Engineering: What Is It?
Electrical engineering is a specialized field within the broader engineering domain. The study of electrical phenomena dates to the 17th century, and by the mid-1800s, electrical engineering became a distinct discipline. The latter part of the 19th century witnessed a surge in demand for electrical engineers, fueled by the popularization of inventions like the telephone and incandescent lamps.
As the need for qualified professionals increased, so did the necessity for structured education and training for electrical engineers. In 1882, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology took a groundbreaking step by establishing the first college-level electrical engineering curriculum in the United States.
In today’s tech-integrated world, electrical engineers play a crucial role in various economic sectors. Armed with knowledge in mathematics and physics, these professionals design, test, and modify a wide range of equipment and systems that generate or utilize electricity.
Their expertise spans the intricacies of nanotechnology components to the complexities of national power grids. Beyond practical applications, electrical engineers may engage in academic research and take charge of overseeing the manufacturing of electrical devices.
Careers in Electrical Engineering
If you’re stepping onto an electrical engineering career path, here’s some encouraging news: Engineering majors, including electrical engineering, are leading the charge on the list of disciplines offering the highest starting salaries for new graduates.
According to America’s National Association of Colleges and Employers November 2023 salary survey, job seekers with bachelor’s degrees in engineering fields earned an average starting salary of $74,405 (about AUD 113,500) in 2023. For those who pursued a master’s degree in engineering, the average starting salary further rose to $86,826 (AUD 132,45).
The following is a list of just five careers within electrical engineering:
Electrical Engineer
Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
Job Overview: This broad category encompasses numerous electrical engineering careers. Professionals typically need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, or a related discipline. Attending an accredited program is often a prerequisite for many positions, graduate programs, and professional credentials. Some advanced roles may require a master’s degree.
Controls Engineer
Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
Job Overview: These professionals specialize in multifunctional systems and machinery and often work in the manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and automotive industries. Their responsibilities include designing, installing, and managing electrical equipment.
Project Engineer
Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
Job Overview: Relying on engineering expertise and strong skills in communication, leadership, project management, and budgeting, these professionals play a vital role in keeping projects on track. This extends across diverse engineering sectors, including electrical engineering. Some employers may prefer candidates with a graduate degree for this role.
Test Engineer
Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
Job Overview: Test engineers are responsible for designing testing processes for hardware and software products, particularly in the computer industry. While they often collaborate with other engineers, they often complete much of their work independently. Some test engineer roles may require a master’s degree or doctorate.
Electrical Design Engineer
Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
Job Overview: Thriving in sectors like semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, electrical design engineers focus on designing and improving products. Their tasks involve creating blueprints, schematics, and prototypes. Apart from an electrical engineering bachelor’s degree, proficiency in design skills and knowledge of industry standards are crucial.
Embarking on an electrical engineering career opens doors to these diverse and dynamic roles. Choose your path wisely and let your journey in the exciting field of electrical engineering begin.
It is important to remember that not all these careers are available in all countries. For example, biomedical engineers are needed in the US because they design and manufacture medical equipment there. Meanwhile, only technicians are needed in Australia because the country only needs people to maintain equipment bought from the US.
Are You Considering This Electrifying Career Path?
Electrical engineering is a versatile field, witnessing a perpetual demand for professionals who can drive advancements across various sectors.
Aspiring engineers and seasoned professionals can find tailored education at the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT), offering diverse courses to excel in this dynamic field.
For further insights into course offerings and opportunities, engage with one of EIT’s knowledgeable staff members today, and pave the way for a rewarding journey in this exciting engineering field.
References
Electrical engineering jobs in high demand
