|
Tell me about it
Electrical engineers are largely concerned with large power applications,
generating and harnessing electrical power. They could be researching
more efficient power generation systems, developing alternative
energy sources or planning the future development of the electricity
supply network. In the move away from burning fossil fuels to generate
electricity, their work might involve designing an improved wind
turbine, re-examining the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear
reactors or exploring ways of harnessing the power of the oceans.
Electronics engineers, on the other hand, are concerned with using
low-power electricity to control such things as telecommunications
equipment, radio and television appliances, computers, hospital
diagnostic equipment, and control systems for everything from satellite
tracking to domestic appliances such as washing machines.
Experienced electrical/electronics engineers usually achieve either
incorporated or chartered status. Broadly speaking, incorporated
engineers specialise in applying modern technology, while chartered
engineers focus more on research and development or manufacture
and installation.
Entry level
Although it is possible to begin training for craft or technician
level jobs straight from school with good GCSEs/S grades in English,
maths and science, the normal way to train as a professional engineer
is to study full time at university or college for a first degree.
Entry is with at least two or three A levels/three or four H grades,
normally including maths and a science subject, or equivalent qualifications,
plus five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3). At many universities, you can
take a one-year foundation course if you don't have the necessary
background in science and maths. If you are unsure about specialising
in electrical or electronics engineering, you will find that many
courses have a common first year, allowing you to gain knowledge
and experience before making a decision.
Graduate apprenticeships in engineering may be available in England,
bringing together study at degree or diploma level with structured
work-based learning.
Making the grade
To qualify as an incorporated electrical/electronics engineer, you
should, having successfully completed an accredited three-year BEng
degree or equivalent qualification, undertake a period of initial
professional development, including practical training and professional
engineering experience. You would then have to pass a professional
review, before gaining corporate membership of the Institution of
Incorporated Engineers.
To qualify as a chartered electrical/electronics engineer, you
must have an accredited MEng degree or equivalent qualification,
complete a period of initial professional development, which includes
training and professional engineering experience, and pass a professional
review with an interview, before gaining corporate membership of
the Institution of Electrical Engineers.
Personal qualities
As an electrical/electronics engineer, you should have an analytical
mind, be good at maths, and be highly computer literate. You would
need good communication skills, a logical approach to problem solving,
and normal colour vision.
You must have a deep interest in science and technology and the
enthusiasm to keep up to date with new developments in a rapidly
changing environment.
Looking ahead
There are opportunities for qualified electrical/electronics engineers
in a wide range of industries. Some of the main ones include aerospace,
marine, agricultural, chemical, civil, energy and medical.
Job prospects are particularly good in the huge and still expanding
electronics industry. Rapid developments in telecommunications,
robotics and digital technology are bringing a steady demand for
electronics engineers, and there are skills shortages in some areas.
Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include aerospace
engineer, marine engineer,
materials scientist or mechanical
engineer.
Take-home pay
Graduate salaries start at around £20,000 to £23,000
a year. If you gain incorporated engineer status, your earnings
should increase to around £36,000 a year. Chartered engineers
may earn £50,000 a year, or more.
Effects
Normal working times are 37 to 40 hours a week, although the actual
number of hours may be considerably longer, depending on the deadlines
for any given project. You may have to work on a rota system if
you are involved with industrial production.
Sources of information
Engineering Careers Information Service: www.enginuity.org.uk
Institution of Electrical Engineers: www.iee.org
Institution of Incorporated Engineers: www.iie.org.uk
Engineering Council UK: www.engc.org.uk
CRCI: GE
|
