Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers research, design, develop, test, and improve electrical equipment, instruments, facilities, products, components, or systems. They work with a wide variety of components and equipment: generators, electric motors, power and light equipment, transformers, relays and switches, appliances, and power distribution systems.They confer with engineers, customers, suppliers, or others to discuss existing or potential products or projects for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific applications.Using computer assisted design or engineering software, they prepare technical specifications and drawings of electrical sytems. They supervise and advise on projects to ensure that installation and operation of electrical systems conform to specifications and meet performance standards.They may conduct field surveys, study maps, graphs, and diagrams to gather data to aid in design and installation or correct power system problems.They use computers to map out details for components and systems, individually or in their place in the planned project. And they may design tools to accomplish installation and repairs.They usually work indoors, but may work in the field with some travel required. Their tasks are varied and exacting, and continuing education is necessary to stay current in a rapidly evolving field. Competition and deadlines may result in elevated stress levels. Interpersonal skills are an aid in communicating about projects and technical details.