Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers sevelop and design electrical systems by applying the physics and mathematics of electricity.
Electrical Engineers specialise in the engineering discipline of designing and developing new electrical systems. They use physics, mathematics and an understanding of electricity, electromagnetism and electronics to create, implement, and test systems that process and transmit energy. They work on systems for the generation, distribution, utilisation and control of electric power. They also work on electronic systems used for computing, communications and other industrial applications. Electrical engineers may specialise as electrical maintenance engineers, electrical power engineers, electrical design engineers, communications engineers or computer engineers. They may also specialise in areas such as the design and operation of power plants, generators, metal refining, rolling mills, motors and transformers, and in researching new applications of technology or production machinery.
Electrical Engineers perform a range of tasks that including:
- develop new systems that use electrical power.
- install and test electrical systems and processes.
- use software to plan, design and improve electrical systems.
- perform detailed calculations to develop manufacturing, construction and installation standards and specifications.
- make or improve products such as electric motors, parts, equipment and appliances
- ensure completed works meet specifications and safety standards
- design and install control and signalling devices for road, rail and air traffic
More information
Personal Requirements
- able to identify, analyse and solve problems
- good oral and written communication skills
- enjoy computing and technical design
- practical and creative
- able to work independently and accept responsibility
Education and Training
To become an Electrical Engineer in Australia a university degree in engineering (with a major in electrical engineering) is usually required.
- Complete a bachelor degree in the field of engineering. This will usually be a Bachelor of Engineering (majoring in electrical engineering). Entry to these courses is generally based on Year 12 results and having met the requirements for prerequisite subjects (usually mathematics and physics).
- To work independently as an Electrical Engineer, most states require you to have a Professional Engineer’s Licence. This is usually gained after at least four years of practice as an engineer.
- Electrical Engineers may undertake a Masters of Electrical Engineering in order to increase their chances of becoming a consultant, manager or project leader.
