Top 5 Skills Needed to Be an Electrical Engineer
Introduction
From sustaining power infrastructure to developing communications and navigation systems, electrical engineers and the job roles they perform are vital across almost every industry. Electrical engineering experts with advanced skills can lead the testing, design, and manufacturing of the equipment that keeps the world running.
The role of an electrical engineer is sometimes mistaken to be similar to that of an electronic engineer. While the jobs of electrical and electronics engineers often overlap, there are vital distinctions between the scope of these two fields, especially regarding required skills and earning potential.
This article explores the top five skills required for an electrical engineer, highlighting specific aspects that strongly impact one’s average salary. While this list is not exhaustive, developing these skills can help you stand out to employers and elevate your competitiveness in the engineering job market.
Top 5 Electrical Engineer Skills Overview
For an electrical engineer, essential skills include a blend of programming proficiency and software knowledge (such as MATLAB and AutoDesk), understanding of engineering methodologies, and leadership abilities like project management. Programming languages such as C++ are also broadly utilized across various engineering disciplines. While not listed among the top five, knowledge of these languages can be highly beneficial for electrical and computer engineers.
Leading industries employing electrical engineers include security firms, defense contractors, aerospace, and IT services companies. To secure top job offers and a strong professional career, an electrical engineer must develop the following skills:
1. Project Management
According to a survey by PayScale, project management has the strongest positive impact on an electrical engineer’s salary. Engineers with project management skills earn about six percent more than the overall average. This skill is especially crucial for those aiming for senior or managerial positions, as they may guide or supervise teams or junior engineers on specific projects.
2. Engineering Design
Engineering design is a methodology for identifying and solving problems, making it a common and crucial skill for electrical engineers. While it may have only a small impact on salary, it is essential for career growth in this industry. Organizations such as the Massachusetts Department of Education, the Boston Museum of Science, and the National Center for Engineering and Technology Education have developed their own engineering design models. Despite differences, all models emphasize an iterative and purposeful approach to problem-solving and solution invention.
3. AutoDesk AutoCAD
According to PayScale, AutoCAD is among the top three most common skills for electrical engineers. However, experience with AutoCAD does not have the same positive impact on earning potential as other skills listed here. The best CAD software for engineers can vary by specialization, and many CAD programs include built-in documentation libraries for specific industries. For example, AutoDesk offers a version of AutoCAD with features tailored for electrical control systems.
4. MATLAB
Expertise with MATLAB is valuable across multiple engineering disciplines, including electrical and electronics engineering, as well as other STEM fields. Simulink, a graphical programming environment within MATLAB, is widely used by electrical and computer engineers to model and simulate system designs. For example, power system engineers might simulate the impact of different voltages and transformer configurations.
5. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) are computing devices developed for industrial applications such as manufacturing. While not all electrical engineers require PLC expertise, having a working knowledge is advantageous, as PLCs are integrated into a broad range of electrical devices and equipment. PLC technology governs the operation of power relays in energy systems and can significantly enhance the efficiency of various control systems.