Electronics Engineer
Job Description:Electronics engineers design and develop systems for industry, from mobile communications to manufacturing and aerospace.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could research, design and develop electronic components and equipment in a range of industries, for example:
- telecommunications – mobile phones, radio, TV and satellite communications
- data communications – PCs, tablets and cashpoints
- scientific research – acoustics, optics, physics and nanotechnology
- medical instruments – clinical and laboratory equipment
- defence – communications, navigation and weapons systems
- aerospace – avionics, radar, navigation and communication systems
- manufacturing – programmable logic controls (PLCs) and industrial machinery
Your day-to-day duties will include:
- assessing new developments or innovations
- preparing technical plans using computer-aided engineering and design software
- estimating manufacturing and labour costs, and project timescales
- co-ordinating the work of technicians and craftspeople
- testing prototypes and analysing data
- making sure projects meet safety regulations
- planning and overseeing inspection and maintenance
You’ll often work on a project with a team of engineers, technicians and IT staff. You’ll follow electrical health and safety regulations.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- science skills
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of physics
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- persistence and determination (drive)
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- organisational skills
- budgeting skills
Entry Requirements:
You’ll usually need a foundation degree, HND or degree in electronic or electrical engineering, or engineering technology.
Employers may accept qualifications in related subjects like physics, maths or computer science.
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work around 40 hours a week. You may work longer to meet project deadlines.
You’ll usually work in an office or a lab. You may work in factories, workshops or outdoors.
Career Path & Progression:
With incorporated or chartered engineer status you could:
- move into project management roles
- specialise in research, such as telecommunications, robotics or
- semiconductors
- work as an engineering consultant
You could also move into patent law.