Working in Electronic Engineering

Electronic engineers research, design, develop, assemble, test and put together programmes for electronic systems, components and equipment in a wide range of industries.

The majority of work they undertake is usually carried out in project management teams comprising of engineers, technicians and IT staff.

Electronic engineers work within an array of industries including telecommunications, data-communications, scientific research, medical instruments, military, manufacturing and automated systems.

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Qualifications

To secure an electronics engineer job most employers usually require either a foundation degree, BTEC HNC/HND or a degree in electronics / electrical engineering or engineering technology. Occasionally employers accept related course subjects where electronics is covered in the syllabus.

Dependent on the pass level of your degree, it is sometimes possible to start your career on a graduate apprenticeship scheme. If this opportunity does not arise then upon success of finding an electronics engineer job, it is common practice for the new recruit to receive on-the-job training from their employer.

It is possible to get an electronics engineer job without a degree but the candidate would have to demonstrate that he or she has a high level of competence and has relevant work experience.

Skills and knowledge

In addition to the formal qualifications required, employers also look for the following in candidates:

• Strong analytical skills
• Decision making skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Good time management skills
• Excellent maths, science, technology and IT skills
• Budget management skills
• The ability to work well in a team
• An understanding of electrical health and safety regulations

Typical work activities

Electronic engineers are usually present at all the stages involved in a project. This starts from the initial brief, to design and development, to testing of a product and finally manufacturing and implementation.

Different projects require electronic engineers to undertake different duties, but as a general rule their tasks typically include:

• Assessing the viability of a new concept
• Co-development of a project specification including designing of technical plans using CAD type software
• Estimation of costs involved and timescales
• Co-ordination of workload for technicians
• Testing of prototypes and analysis of data
• Improvements to the design to ensure that the performance meets the specification and safety regulations
• Presentations of the final product to managers/clients

Career opportunities

As with nearly all technical related and IT jobs, it is important to continuously update your knowledge and skills by taking up professional development opportunities.

Many electronic engineers help develop their careers by working towards incorporated or chartered status. Incorporated engineers usually specialise in day-to-day management of engineering operations. As a chartered engineer, your role would become more strategic consisting of planning, researching and developing new ideas and streamlining existing management methods.

Salary and benefits

• New entrants can expect to earn between £18,000 and £24,500 a year
• According to IT Jobs Watch the average salary for an electronics engineer is £35, 397 which has risen by 5.78% on the same period last year
• Depending on levels of experience and specialist skills, senior electronics engineers can earn between £40,000 and £52,000 a year