engineers who work for the federal government research, develop, and evaluate electronic devices used in diverse technologies, such as aviation, computing, transportation, and manufacturing. They work on federal electronic devices and systems, including satellites, flight systems, radar and sonar systems, and communications systems.
The work of electrical engineers and electronics engineers is often similar. Both use engineering and design software and equipment to do engineering tasks. Both types of engineers must also work with other engineers to discuss existing products and possibilities for engineering projects.
Engineers whose work is related exclusively to computer hardware are considered computer hardware engineers. For more information about this occupation, see the profile on computer hardware engineers.
Work Environment
Electrical and electronic engineers are mostly employed in industries conducting research and development or engineering service firms.
Electrical and electronics engineers held about 294,000 jobs in 2010.
Electrical and electronics engineers worked primarily in engineering services firms, electric power generation, manufacturing, and research and development in 2010:
Architectural, engineering, and related services 22%
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing 10
Electric power generation, transmission and distribution 10
Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing 7
Scientific research and development services 5
Electronics engineers work mostly for the federal government, semiconductor manufacturing, and telecommunications companies. Industries employing the largest number of electronics engineers in 2010 were as follows:
Federal government, excluding postal service 14%
Wired telecommunications carriers 11
Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing 11
Architectural, engineering, and related services 8
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing 8
Electrical and electronics engineers generally work indoors in offices. However, they may visit sites to observe a problem or a piece of complex equipment.
Most of these engineers work full time, and overtime is not uncommon.
How to Become an Electrical or Electronics Engineer
Becoming an electrical or electronics engineer involves study of math and engineering.
Electrical and electronics engineers must have a bachelor’s degree. Employers also value practical experience, so graduates of cooperative engineering programs, in which students earn academic credit for structured work experience, are valuable as well. Having a Professional Engineer license may improve an engineer’s chances for employment.
Education
High school students interested in studying electrical or electronics engineering benefit from taking courses in physics and mathematics—algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Courses in drafting are also helpful, as these engineers are often required to prepare technical drawings.
Entry-level jobs in electrical or electronics engineering generally require a bachelor’s degree. Programs typically last 4 years and include classroom, laboratory, and field studies. Courses include digital systems design, differential equations, and electrical circuit theory. Programs in electrical engineering should be accredited by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
Some colleges and universities offer cooperative programs in which students gain practical experience while completing their education. Cooperative programs combine classroom study with practical work.
At some universities, students can enroll in a 5-year program that leads to both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. A graduate degree allows an engineer to work as an instructor at some universities, or in research and development.
Important Qualities
Active learning. Electrical and electronics engineers have to apply knowledge learned in school to new tasks in every project they undertake. In addition, continuing education is important for them so that they can keep up with changes in technology.
Communication skills. Electrical and electronics engineers work closely with other engineers and technicians. They must be able to clearly explain their designs and reasoning and to relay instructions during product development and production. They may also need to explain complex issues to customers who have little or no technical expertise.
Detail oriented. Electrical and electronics engineers design and develop complex electrical systems and electronic components and products. They must keep track of multiple design elements and technical characteristics during these processes.
Math skills. Electrical and electronics engineers use the principals of calculus and other advanced topics in mathematics for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.
Teamwork. Electrical and electronics engineers must work with others during production to ensure that their plans are being correctly applied. This includes monitoring technicians to see that plans are being implemented properly and devising remedies to problems as they come up.
Licenses
Licensure for electrical and electronics engineers is not as common as it is for other engineering occupations, but it is encouraged for those working in companies that have contracts with the government at all levels. Engineers who become licensed are designated professional engineers (PEs). Licensure generally requires the following:
A degree from an engineering program accredited by the ABET
A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Relevant work experience
A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
The initial Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam can be taken right after graduation from a college or university. Engineers who pass this exam commonly are called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After getting work experience, EITs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.
Several states require engineers to take continuing education to keep their license. Most states recognize licensure from other states if the licensing state’s requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements.
Advancement
Engineers may advance to supervise a team of engineers and technicians. Some may move into management positions, such as engineering managers or program managers. Preparation for managerial positions
