Electrical engineer

Electrical engineering covers a wide range of career choices and offers tremendous scope for advancement for dedicated professionals.

Alternative job titles for this role

Design engineer
Project engineer
Power engineer
Control engineer
Computer engineer
Systems design engineer
Telecommunications engineer
Test engineer

Introduction

Electrical engineers work with electricity in a variety of areas including aircraft and automobiles; broadcasting and communications systems; lighting and wiring in buildings; machinery controls; power generating and transmitting; and radar and navigation systems. They can be involved with the design of new products as well as testing equipment and solving problems. Electrical engineers can also work in automation and communications engineering, microelectronics and technical informatics.

What the job involves

Design and research work on the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity
Design a range of related devices such as transformers, electric generators, electric motors and power electronics
Model and design dynamic control systems used in areas such as transport and aviation
Design computers and computer systems
In telecommunications, facilitate transmission of information across a channel such as a coaxial cable, optical fibre or free space
Complete maps and technical drawings or specifications of electrical systems
Incorporate public safety in all designs

How your career can develop

There is huge scope for specialisation in an electrical engineering role. Experienced electrical engineers sometimes go into project management or progress to taking on a management role. Some opt for an academic career or may become a self-employed consultant or contractor.

Why electrical engineering matters

Electrical engineers will be a core requirement behind the largest ever windfarm constructed in Ireland, at a cost of €240 million, in County Galway.

Skills

Aptitude for design
Keen interest in technology and engineering
Knowledge of physics
Good maths skills
Interest and aptitude for computers and electronics
Good problem-solving and analytical skills
Planning and organisational ability`

Typical employers

Utility and power companies
Sustainable energy suppliers and generators
Energy research labs
Telecommunications and other engineering industries
Electronics developers and manufacturers
Commercial electrical manufacturers
Local authorities

Typical salary

Graduate/Starting €35,000

Senior/Potential €65,000+

Typical qualifications

Engineers who graduate after 2013 and wish to become chartered engineers will need to hold an accredited masters degree (level 9), or equivalent. Level 8 bachelor degrees will satisfy the requirements for Institution of Engineers Ireland membership only. Gateway degrees for the profession include: