Five reasons to pursue a career in electrical engineering
Engineers are problem-solvers and innovators. They use scientific principles, mathematical calculations and creative thinking to design, develop and maintain systems, structures and solutions that address real-world challenges. These professionals come from various fields, including electrical engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering and more, and they play a vital role in shaping our world.
Electrical engineers are central to modern technological advancements, and there are numerous compelling reasons to join this career path. If you are an analytical thinker who pays attention to detail and has good maths and physics skills, a career in electrical engineering might be a great fit for you. In this blog, we will explore five reasons to pursue a career in electrical engineering.
- Diverse career opportunities: Electrical engineers have access to a wide array of career options spanning across aerospace, telecommunications, energy, healthcare and manufacturing. The flexibility of the field means you can explore diverse areas of interest, adapt to changing markets and enjoy job security.
- Competitive salaries: Electrical engineering offers competitive salary ranges. Entry-level positions typically start at around £20,000 to £25,000 per year, with mid-career engineers earning between £28,000 to £40,000 annually*. Experienced electrical engineers can command salaries exceeding £60,000, depending on their specialisations and years of experience. This financial stability ensures that you can thrive in this field.
- Transferrable skills are welcome: Diversity is widely welcomed by employers. Having people from different backgrounds and experiences helps to bring new perspectives and approaches to the business. While having the skills needed for electrical engineering is undoubtedly important, what truly sets candidates apart is their drive for career development and their ability to adapt their skills to their role.
- High job satisfaction: A survey at Machine Design found that 87% of respondents were satisfied with their job in engineering. This is a result of many factors. The profession is inherently dynamic, featuring varied and engaging tasks. There is also a high degree of autonomy which fosters a sense of accomplishment and innovation. The constant demand for innovation and adaptation keeps electrical engineers intellectually stimulated and contributes to their overall job satisfaction.
- Having a positive impact on daily life: As an electrical engineer, you will have a significant impact on the daily lives of many. You have the task of powering homes and devices, designing efficient transportation systems and renewable energy solutions and enhancing healthcare. The work of an electrical engineer is integral to our modern lifestyle, improving convenience, sustainability and safety across various aspects of our daily routines.
*Salary ranges from prospects.ac.uk
Entry routes and progression
There are many entry routes into an electrical engineering career. The most common path is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field from a reputable university. This gives you a holistic foundation in electrical engineering principles and is usually completed over a three to four year period. Alternatively, you can opt for an engineering apprenticeship which allows you to gain practical experience alongside your studies. Additionally, some individuals transition into electrical engineering from other engineering disciplines, often by pursuing a postgraduate degree or specific conversion course. These varied entry routes make electrical engineering accessible to individuals of all backgrounds.
As an engineer, your skills are versatile. There are many industries that you could work in, from power and renewable energy to transport, construction and manufacturing, which means that there is also lots of opportunity for progression. You can choose to become a specialist in your chosen area, move into a different area of electrical engineering or perhaps you may consider becoming a consultant or a contractor. Whichever route or career path you take, becoming an electrical engineer is an interesting and rewarding career choice, providing you with an abundance of opportunities.
At Manpower Engineering, we match innovative and highly skilled talent to in-demand careers in high-growth industries, so if you’re ready to start your engineering career or progress in your current role, we’re here to help. Our experienced consultants offer a wealth of knowledge and are on hand to help you get to the next stage of your career journey.
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