Job Description

This job is part of our sustainability series: > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers

Electrical Engineers are involved in the innovation of new systems and electrical products, as well as the installation of systems. They will often be involved in the wiring of the whole buildings as well as the infrastructure for large projects such as new power stations and transport systems.

Entry Requirements

You can get into this job through:

College

You could do a college course like Electrical Installation Technical Certificate Level 2 or Engineering Extended Diploma Level 3.

You will need 5 GCSEs including Maths and English at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent.

The following local colleges offer courses in Engineering/Electrical:

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course

Apprenticeship

You could do an electrical or electronic technical support engineer advanced/higher apprenticeship.

You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent.

University

You can do a degree in electrical or electronic engineering. You may also be able to get into this career with a degree in:

electromechanical engineering
building services engineering
applied physics
aeronautical engineering
mechatronics

You'll usually need 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree.

Click here to search for a suitable course.

Work

You could start as an electrical engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.

Career Path and Progression

You could work in different industries, from power and renewable energy to transport, construction and manufacturing.

You can improve your career prospects with incorporated or chartered engineer status. Chartered status can help you move into electrical design and project management roles, specialise in a particular field, or work as an engineering consultant. The Engineering Council have further details on how to become a chartered engineer.

Related careers you may be interested in:

Electrical engineering technician
Aerospace engineer
Aerospace engineering technician
Building services engineer
Electronics engineer

Required Skills

Good planning and organisational skills
The ability to follow plans
Up to date sector knowledge
The ability to work well with other professionals
Good problem solving skills
The ability to work well under pressure

Salary Range

£20,000 to £60,000

Electrical Engineer