Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers are largely concerned with large power applications, generating and harnessing electrical power. They could be researching more efficient power generation systems, developing alternative energy sources or planning the future development of the electricity supply network. In the move away from burning fossil fuels to generate electricity, their work might involve designing an improved wind turbine, re-examining the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear reactors or exploring ways of harnessing the power of the oceans.

Electronics engineers, on the other hand, are concerned with using low-power electricity to control such things as telecommunications equipment, radio and television appliances, computers, hospital diagnostic equipment, and control systems for everything from satellite tracking to domestic appliances such as washing machines.

Experienced electrical/electronics engineers usually achieve either incorporated or chartered status. Broadly speaking, incorporated engineers specialise in applying modern technology, while chartered engineers focus more on research and development or manufacture and installation.

Entry level
Although it is possible to begin training for craft or technician level jobs straight from school with good GCSEs/S grades in English, maths and science, the normal way to train as a professional engineer is to study full time at university or college for a first degree. Entry is with at least two or three A levels/three or four H grades, normally including maths and a science subject, or equivalent qualifications, plus five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3). At many universities, you can take a one-year foundation course if you don't have the necessary background in science and maths. If you are unsure about specialising in electrical or electronics engineering, you will find that many courses have a common first year, allowing you to gain knowledge and experience before making a decision.

Graduate apprenticeships in engineering may be available in England, bringing together study at degree or diploma level with structured work-based learning.

Making the grade
To qualify as an incorporated electrical/electronics engineer, you should, having successfully completed an accredited three-year BEng degree or equivalent qualification, undertake a period of initial professional development, including practical training and professional engineering experience. You would then have to pass a professional review, before gaining corporate membership of the Institution of Incorporated Engineers.

To qualify as a chartered electrical/electronics engineer, you must have an accredited MEng degree or equivalent qualification, complete a period of initial professional development, which includes training and professional engineering experience, and pass a professional review with an interview, before gaining corporate membership of the Institution of Electrical Engineers.

Personal qualities
As an electrical/electronics engineer, you should have an analytical mind, be good at maths, and be highly computer literate. You would need good communication skills, a logical approach to problem solving, and normal colour vision.

You must have a deep interest in science and technology and the enthusiasm to keep up to date with new developments in a rapidly changing environment.

Looking ahead
There are opportunities for qualified electrical/electronics engineers in a wide range of industries. Some of the main ones include aerospace, marine, agricultural, chemical, civil, energy and medical.

Job prospects are particularly good in the huge and still expanding electronics industry. Rapid developments in telecommunications, robotics and digital technology are bringing a steady demand for electronics engineers, and there are skills shortages in some areas.

Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include aerospace engineer, marine engineer, materials scientist or mechanical engineer.

Take-home pay
Graduate salaries start at around £20,000 to £23,000 a year. If you gain incorporated engineer status, your earnings should increase to around £36,000 a year. Chartered engineers may earn £50,000 a year, or more.

Effects
Normal working times are 37 to 40 hours a week, although the actual number of hours may be considerably longer, depending on the deadlines for any given project. You may have to work on a rota system if you are involved with industrial production.

Sources of information
Engineering Careers Information Service: www.enginuity.org.uk
Institution of Electrical Engineers: www.iee.org
Institution of Incorporated Engineers: www.iie.org.uk
Engineering Council UK: www.engc.org.uk

CRCI: GE