What does an electrical engineer do?

An electrical engineer is a specific type of engineer. Electrical engineers work with a variety of different electrical components. Most electrical engineers have a specific field of expertise – such as computer components or automotive engineering – and this is where they really get to create remarkable new technology.

When an electrical engineer works on a project, he'll usually be given a brief by a client, or be presented with a problem and asked to come up with a solution. The electrical engineer will then create a plan – maybe even a 3D map – of the component they're creating. This will include all the circuitry and wiring.

The next step is to build a prototype of the component, and test that prototype in all kinds of different situations. There will be stringent safety tests to pass, as well as making sure all the components work together the way they should. Only once all the tests have been completed and the design modified and re-tested can the electrical engineer put a component into construction. But his/her job is still not over – for he/she may be required to perform maintenance or repair on the components over the years.

An electrical engineer is often part of a team of engineers, so they have to understand not just electronics, but other types of engineering as well. It's important that an electrical engineer can work well alongside other colleagues to produce the most efficient, cost effective and quality product.

Many electrical engineers will specialise in a particular type of technology, for example switch mode power supplies engineers. In order to become an electrical engineer, you'll need to go to university and obtain a Bachelor's degree in engineering with an electrical engineering speciality. Many engineers who wish to specialise further than that will go on to postgraduate study or choose a particular course of study. To be a good electrical engineer, you'll need to have a decent background in physics, mathematics, design (computer-aided), processing and production.

Above all, electrical engineers need to be quick thinkers with a real attention to detail and the ability to think laterally about any problem.