What does an Electrical Engineer do?

Electrical engineering dates back to the late 19th century, and is one of the newer branches of engineering. The field of electronics was born with the invention of the thermionic valve diode vacuum tube in 1904 by John Ambrose Fleming, and was the foundation of all electronics, including radios, television and radar, until the mid-20th century.

Some of the most important pioneers in electrical engineering include Thomas Edison (electric light bulb), George Westinghouse (alternating current), Nikola Tesla (induction motor), Guglielmo Marconi (radio) and Philo T. Farnsworth (television). Innovative ideas and concepts were turned into practical devices and systems that paved the way to what we have and use today.

Electrical engineers work on a variety of projects, such as computers, robots, cell phones, cards, radars, navigation systems, wiring and lighting in buildings and other kinds of electrical systems.

More and more, electrical engineers are relying on computer-aided design (CAD) systems for the creation of schematics and to lay out circuits, and they use computers to simulate how electrical devices and systems will function.

Electrical engineers work in various industries and the skills required also vary. These skills can range from basic circuit theory to those required to be a project manager. The tools and equipment that an electrical engineer may need are also variable and can range from a straightforward voltmeter to a top end analyzer to advanced design and manufacturing software.

Evaluate & Design

Evaluate electrical systems, products, components, and applications. They design and conduct research programs while applying knowledge of electricity and materials.

Research & Reporting

Electrical Engineers prepare product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends. They research and test manufacturing and assembly methods and materials.

Develop Procedures

Electrical engineers researching and testing manufacturing and assembly methods and materials. They develop manufacturing processes by designing and modifying equipment.

Quality Assurance

Electrical engineers assure product quality by designing electrical testing methods. They test finished products and system capabilities. Confirm system’s and components’ capabilities by designing testing methods and properties.

How much does an Electrical Engineer make?

The average annual salary for an Electrical Engineer in the United States is $111,091. salaries as high as $168,000 and as low as $50,500, the majority of Electrical Engineer salaries currently range between $83,000 (25th percentile) to $132,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $167,000 annually across the United States.

These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.

What does the workplace for an Electrical Engineer look like?

An electrical engineer can be employed in a variety of engineering industries: aerospace, automotive, chemical, construction, defense, electronics, consumer goods, marine, materials & metals, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, power generation, rail, telecoms, and utilities. They work for corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

A large part of an electrical engineer’s day involves project management, such as meeting with clients, determining budgets, and preparing project schedules. Supervising the work of other professionals, such as computer programmers, electricians, scientists, and other engineers, is also required at times. A typical work week is 40 hours, although there may be overtime involved to meet deadlines.

How to become an Electrical Engineer?

A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is required by most employers. Students need to do well in courses such as physics, mathematics, programming, and project management. Aside from colleges and universities, there are also electrical engineering degree programs offered online, which allow students to study while working.

Government and federal contractors require licenses, with different procedures and requirements depending on the state. Applicants must pass an exam to receive their license, as well as have a minimum number of years of job experience. For fresh graduates, there are also pre-licensure certifications.
Most electrical engineers have a bachelor’s degree. The most common areas of study are electrical engineering, and electronics engineering technology.