An electrical design engineer designs, builds, installs, tests, and maintains electrical systems, equipment, machines, and control instruments. Examples include smartphones, navigation systems, radar, electric motors, and electric power generation equipment.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of electrical engineers is estimated to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032. Approximately 17,800 openings for electrical engineers are anticipated annually over the decade. As a result, there are plenty of opportunities to build a career.
The diverse job duties and responsibilities of an electrical design engineer make each workday different. The tasks depend on the type of project and the progress. Therefore, the engineer might focus on product design while collaborating with other departments, oversee project work, manage finances, or report to upper management or a client.
Learn more about a day in the life of an electrical design engineer to determine whether this career might be right for you.
Electrical Design Engineer Duties
Typical job duties and responsibilities of an electrical design engineer include:
- Preparing technical drawings that include the device specifications and topographical maps to ensure the product meets the client’s requirements.
- Meeting with the project team, including a design team, architects, project managers, and related professionals, to discuss the project goals, production processes, schedule, and budget.
- Overseeing project production to ensure the work is accurately completed on time and within the budget.
- Testing the prototypes to check for errors and make corrections before delivering the product.
- Reporting to upper management or the client to discuss the progress of the work, share any updates on the product or delivery time, and ensure satisfaction.
Education to Become an Electrical Design Engineer
A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is required to work as an electrical design engineer. A master’s degree or certificate typically is required to become an engineering manager.
Apprenticeships and internships offer opportunities to gain experience as an electrical design engineer. Enrolling in a work-study program provides income while learning.
After graduation, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam is required to work as an electrical design engineer. Then, the job search can begin.
Job Search Tips for an Electrical Design Engineer
These job search tips can help an electrical design engineer land a job:
Network
Building a network of engineering professionals is essential for career growth. These professionals might be found by participating in engineering workshops, professional associations, and online engineering communities.
Engineering professionals help an electrical design engineer stay current and connected within the field. They also might mention job openings, offer employee referrals, and provide introductions to hiring managers.
Apply for entry-level jobs
Use company websites, job boards, social media, and industry communities to find entry-level electrical design engineering jobs that fit your skills and interests. Next, research the companies and set up informational interviews to determine whether the company and job suit you. Then, apply for the jobs you like best.
Work with a staffing agency
Partner with a local staffing agency that specializes in electrical design engineering:
- An agency recruiter can match you with employers and opportunities that fit your skills and interests.
- You gain access to resume and interview resources and coaching.
- The agency recruiter negotiates any job offers on your behalf.
- The recruiter regularly follows up to ensure your satisfaction.
Are You Ready to Find an Electrical Design Engineer Job?
Explore exciting electrical design engineer job opportunities with Impact Staffing. Visit our job board today.
