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- An exciting growing field of engineering where you'll work on electrical systems in cars and other vehicles
- You'll need excellent maths and science skills
- Work as part of a team on high profile projects at the leading edge of new developments in the field
All modern cars have electrical systems within them, but as the electric vehicle (EV) industry grows this means there has been an increase in demand for electrical engineers within the automotive industry. Electrical engineers in this industry design, develop, and build electrical systems within all kinds of vehicles.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Carrying out feasibility studies for new technical developments
- Drawing up project plans and circuit diagrams using computer-assisted engineering and design software
- Estimating costs and project timings
- Coordinating the work of technicians and craftspeople
- Testing installations and systems and analysing test data
- Making sure projects meet safety regulations
- Overseeing inspection and maintenance programmes
- Attending meetings
- Writing reports
- Giving presentations
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You'll often work as part of a team of engineers, designers, and technicians on a particular project, and working in this industry will put you at the leading edge of electrical engineering research and development.
You'll work in an office, research facility, or manufacturing plant. There may be opportunities for overseas travel, if you work in the motorsport industry.
You'll need
This role requires excellent maths, science and IT skills, the ability to make and understand technical diagrams, analytical skills, the ability to explain design ideas clearly, and decision-making skills.
You can do a degree in electrical or electronic engineering. You may also be able to get into this career with a degree in electromechanical engineering, building services engineering, applied physics, aeronautical engineering or mechatronics.
You could also do a Level 4 and 5 Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at college before looking for work or an electrical and electronic technical support engineer higher apprenticeship.
You can apply for jobs if you've got qualifications and several years' experience in a related area of engineering, for example electronics. If you don't have experience you could start as an electrical engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.
You'll need to take a colour vision test for this role.
CAREER PROSPECTS
With experience, you may be able to move into contracting work, moving between short-term projects. You could also move into related work, such as environmental design, or lecturing in mechanical or automotive engineering.