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What does an Electrical Engineer do?

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Talent.com talent.com
Answered November 19 2021
Career Expert at Talent.com
Electrical Engineers design, develop, test, and supervise electrical manufacturing equipment, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, or power generation equipment. This process combines several carefully planned and executed steps, requiring incredibly detail-oriented candidates who are sticklers for the details.   
  
The daily workday can and will combine several situational experiences for Electrical Engineers that require quick-thinking and innovative approaches. They often perform complex calculations to ensure electrical systems and appliances are functioning without issue while developing new electrical products or improving existing ones.   
 
The manufacturing process requires careful oversight, given the standards and compliance required that ensures applicable codes are up to date. The process involves several touchpoints with clients and colleagues alike and factors into deadlines and budgeting. 
  
To climb the career ladder, Electrical Engineers rely on their expertise and experience in the field. Career advancement opportunities for Electrical Engineers may include leaving behind the hands-on work they're used to and moving on to more administrative responsibilities. In-depth reporting and other admin-level duties, even team management, will replace some opportunities to be on-site.  
 
Roles and responsibilities of an Electrical Engineer
Here's a non-exhaustive list of everyday tasks Electrical Engineers are required to complete:
  • Prepare engineering specifications and drawings for different electrical projects (e.g., commercial, residential, institutional, and industrial buildings), as well as municipal infrastructure projects (e.g., pumping stations or roadway lighting) 
  • Prepare lighting designs, calculations, power distribution, structured cabling, fire alarm systems, and security system designs.  
  • Establish budgets and estimate the time required for the development and creation of new technologies.  
  • Design, improve, and test new electrical appliances. 
  • Evaluate existing electrical appliances and machines to see if they can be improved or updated.  
  • Evaluate the overall feasibility and design of electrical appliances and machines.  
  • Design and manufacture the internal circuitry of electrical appliances and machines.  
  • Calculate electrical systems and equipment sizing (e.g., short circuit analysis, voltage drop calculations, and photometric calculations).   
  • Coordinate with equipment vendors and suppliers for the selection and specification of electrical equipment.  
  • Install specialized electrical systems and provide periodic maintenance when necessary.  
  • Inspect malfunctioning electrical systems or appliances and perform repairs when possible.  
  • Work alongside the entire design team to ensure the design meets the clients' expectations and requirements.  
  • Communicate with suppliers and contractors.  
  • Draft contracts and review construction proposals.  
  • Connect with contractors and perform on-site inspections.  
  • Monitor the proper handling and installation of new electrical technologies.  
  • Design and document maintenance procedures for electrical appliances and machines.   
  • Analyze malfunctioning equipment, if any, and provide immediate solutions.  
  • Supervise colleagues and other employees under their authority. 
  • Adhere to national and provincial safety regulations and procedures involved in designing, producing, and distributing new technologies and appliances.
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