Electrical engineer

Entry Requirements:

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 foundation degree or 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

Look out for courses that offer work experience opportunities during your studies, such as:

• internships
• sandwich course placements
• Easter and summer vacation schemes

These can give you an advantage when applying for jobs or graduate training schemes . Your university careers service can help you to find opportunities.

Entry requirements:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree

College

You could do a higher national certificate or diploma in electrical and electronic engineering at college before looking for a trainee engineer position with a company.

Entry requirements:

• 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

Apprenticeship

You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship, for example:

• Electrical or Electronic Technical Support Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• Electro-Mechanical Engineer Level 6 Apprenticeship, which can lead to professional certification

These apprenticeships take up to 5 years to complete.

Entry requirements:

• 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 become an engineer.

DirectApplication

You can apply for jobs if you've got qualifications and several years' experience in a related area of engineering, for example electronics or power generation.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths knowledge
• complex problem-solving skills
• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• persistence and determination
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• analytical thinking skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• excellent written communication skills
• knowledge of English language
• knowledge of physics
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Electrical engineers design, build and maintain electrical systems, machinery and equipment in lots of different industries.

As an electrical engineer, you could:

• draw up project plans and technical diagrams, using engineering design software
• estimate costs and project timings
• test installations and systems, and analyse results
• make sure projects meet safety regulations
• co-ordinate the work of technicians and craftspeople
• oversee inspection and maintenance programmes

Location : You could work in a factory, at a power station, in a workshop, at a research facility or in an office.
Environment : Your working environment may be at height.

Salary:

Starter : £27,000
Experienced : £58,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

35 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings occasionally

Career Path:

You can work in many different industries, from power and renewable energy to transport, construction and manufacturing.

You can improve your career prospects through professional registration .

Registration can lead to senior roles in:

• project management
• electrical design
• engineering research and development
• contracts management
• consultancy services

You could also teach in higher or further education .