An electronic engineer is a skilled professional who creates plans and designs for electronics. They assist in the development of a variety of electronic products such as radios, televisions, computers, and GPS systems. Electronic engineers have a range of duties and must complete specific education and certification requirements. They work for a variety of organizations and have a positive career outlook.
Duties
- Design, evaluate, maintain, and repair electronic equipment and components.
- Work with a variety of experts to develop and maintain communications systems that maintain data flow such as entertainment systems, computers, cell phones, portable music devices, and navigational equipment.
- Work directly with customers, producers, and suppliers to develop the specifications for new products.
- Play a part in management of projects and quality assurance.
Education
- An electronic engineer must earn at least a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering or other related engineering field.
- Many colleges and universities offer electronic engineering degrees and an increasing amount of web-based institutions are offering the discipline.
- Admission into engineering programs is often competitive and students must have a high GPA. Good grades in science and math courses such as calculus and physics are especially important.
Certification
- Electronic engineers must also become certified before they can be hired.
- The American Association of Engineers maintains certification processes and candidates must apply once they have graduated from an approved engineering training program.
- A certification examination is generally required for all applicants.
- After passing the examination and meeting all other certification requirements, electronic engineers earn the title of Professional Engineer or P.Eng.
Skills
- Detail oriented
- Computer software skills
- Effective communication
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Employment
- Electronic engineers often work in manufacturing firms, product development organizations, and research agencies.
- Technological advancements and increased use of a variety of electronics in a diverse amount of consumer products results in a high demand for electronic engineers.