- Project plans
- Project activities
- Legislation and standards
- Industry context
Last edited 10 Aug 2018
Electrical engineers design, develop and maintain electrical systems and components.
They may work in a variety of sectors, including:
- Construction, and in particular, building services such as; heating, lighting and ventilation.
- Power generation and distribution.
- Industrial processes.
- Petrochemical industries.
- Research and development.
- Armed forces.
Generally, an electrical engineer will work within a project team that may include other engineers (such as structural, mechanical and building services engineers), architects, contractors and suppliers. The may undertake a wide range of activities such as:
- Identifying the requirements of the employer.
- Researching potential solutions.
- Designing systems and components.
- Producing drawings, models and prototypes (including the use of Building Information Modelling).
- Collaborating with other team members.
- Attending site meetings.
- Testing systems and components.
- Recording, analysing and interpreting data.
- Certifying systems and components.
- Maintaining and servicing equipment.
Generally a degree in electrical or electronic engineering or a related subject is required for entry into this profession. A relevant professional body will support career progression, such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). In order to become a chartered engineer (CEng), postgraduate qualifications are required. It is possible to become an incorporated engineer (IEng) with a degree level qualification.
To see some of the modules studied as part of an engineering degree course, see Construction engineering management course essentials.
 Find out more
 Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Appointing consultants.
- Building services engineer.
- Civil engineer.
- Consultant team.
- Electrical control systems.
- Electrical drawing.
- Institute of Engineering and Technology.
- Mechanical engineer.
- Review of Engineering Skills.
- Project engineer.
- Protected circuit.
- Structural engineer.
 External references
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