Electrical Engineers
What is an Electrical Engineer?
Electrical Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, systems, and devices. They apply principles of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism to efficiently create solutions for a variety of applications, including power generation, transmission, and distribution; control systems; telecommunications; and various electronic devices. Their work often involves complex problem-solving and requires strong analytical skills to ensure that systems work reliably and efficiently. Electrical Engineers may collaborate with professionals in multiple engineering disciplines and often engage in research to innovate and improve existing electrical technologies. With advancements in areas such as renewable energy, smart technologies, and automation, the role of Electrical Engineers continues to evolve, posing new challenges and opportunities in the field.
Tasks
- Design, implement, maintain, or improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, components, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, or domestic purposes.
- Oversee project production efforts to assure projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Direct or coordinate manufacturing, construction, installation, maintenance, support, documentation, or testing activities to ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements.
- Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, or installation standards or specifications.
- Operate computer-assisted engineering or design software or equipment to perform engineering tasks.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
- Word processing software
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Development environment software
- Operating system software
Tools Used
- Semiconductor process systems
- Spectrometers
- Signal generators
- Tube furnaces
- Laboratory evaporators
Knowledge
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Skills
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Abilities
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Associate's degree
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Scheduling Work and Activities
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Detailed Work Activities
- Design electrical equipment or systems.
- Design structures or facilities.
- Maintain electronic equipment.
- Direct industrial production activities.
- Direct construction activities.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$69320.0 - $172050.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.