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alan
Student
Holland, Michigan
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how hard is it to find a job as an electrical engineer ?
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7 answers
Dan Stangel
Technology Expert
2
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Dan’s Answer
I have a degree in Electrical Engineering, and it is generally not hard to find a job as an EE, with a few caveats. Like many of the other answers posted here, it is important to work hard, maintain good grades, and participate in activities in your field outside of class. Almost every college and university with an Engineering program will have many clubs, societies, labs, professors, and advisors who can help you find lots of opportunities.
There are many different sub-fields within Electrical Engineering, from quantum computing to electrical power transmission. You might already know what area of EE you want to focus on, and can target your upper-division classes (usually the last two years of a Bachelors degree) towards that area. But if you don't know what sub-field you want to go into, you will have tons of opportunities to learn about them in school, and find out which ones interest you the most. Ask lots of questions, and try to find more people working in the industry to talk to. Not only will you learn a lot, but you might also find your first job that way!
Learn about the different sub-fields in electrical engineering, and decide which one you want to focus on
Find people working in the industry to talk to - ask your school counselors or teachers for some leads
Work hard and do well in school to give yourself the best chance of landing your dream job
There are many different sub-fields within Electrical Engineering, from quantum computing to electrical power transmission. You might already know what area of EE you want to focus on, and can target your upper-division classes (usually the last two years of a Bachelors degree) towards that area. But if you don't know what sub-field you want to go into, you will have tons of opportunities to learn about them in school, and find out which ones interest you the most. Ask lots of questions, and try to find more people working in the industry to talk to. Not only will you learn a lot, but you might also find your first job that way!
Dan recommends the following next steps:
Paul Iyoha, E.I.T
Research assistant
15
Answers
Lubbock, Texas
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Alan,
As a civil engineer myself, I can confidently say that among all the engineering disciplines out there, electrical engineering stands out as a shining star. These professionals are in high demand because they have the opportunity to work in a multitude of industries!
Should you decide to embark on this career path, rest assured, you'll be stepping into a field brimming with job opportunities. It's a profession that's not just rewarding but also ensures job security. So, go ahead and pursue your interest in electrical engineering, it's a choice you won't regret!
As a civil engineer myself, I can confidently say that among all the engineering disciplines out there, electrical engineering stands out as a shining star. These professionals are in high demand because they have the opportunity to work in a multitude of industries!
Should you decide to embark on this career path, rest assured, you'll be stepping into a field brimming with job opportunities. It's a profession that's not just rewarding but also ensures job security. So, go ahead and pursue your interest in electrical engineering, it's a choice you won't regret!
Glenn A
Mechanical Engineering Manager @ Belkin
149
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Glenn’s Answer
Alan, your question is excellent, and although I'm not an Electrical Engineer, but a Mechanical Engineer, I can certainly provide some insight. The answer, as always, is that it depends. It depends on factors like the economy, your self-presentation, and the amount of effort you invest in your job search.
The economy is beyond your control, but the other factors aren't. While you're in school, dedicate yourself to mastering the basics and taking on leadership roles in group projects. Choose elective courses that will make you more appealing to employers. If possible, gain practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs.
When you're crafting your resume, keep it concise and limit it to one page. Get it reviewed by a mentor who has experience in hiring engineering professionals. Don't limit your job applications and be open to all kinds of opportunities. Don't set restrictions on the kind of work you're willing to do or where you're willing to live.
When it comes to interviews, preparation is key. Familiarize yourself with the job description and learn about the company. During the interview, stay calm and be authentic.
The engineering job market is currently expanding, but it's crucial to present yourself as a desirable candidate. If you do, you should be able to secure a position.
Apply yourself in school and take leadership roles in projects
Coop or Intern
one page Resume reviewed by a mentor who is an experienced engineering hiring manager
Prepare for the interview by reviewing the company and the Job description
Relax and be yourself
The economy is beyond your control, but the other factors aren't. While you're in school, dedicate yourself to mastering the basics and taking on leadership roles in group projects. Choose elective courses that will make you more appealing to employers. If possible, gain practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs.
When you're crafting your resume, keep it concise and limit it to one page. Get it reviewed by a mentor who has experience in hiring engineering professionals. Don't limit your job applications and be open to all kinds of opportunities. Don't set restrictions on the kind of work you're willing to do or where you're willing to live.
When it comes to interviews, preparation is key. Familiarize yourself with the job description and learn about the company. During the interview, stay calm and be authentic.
The engineering job market is currently expanding, but it's crucial to present yourself as a desirable candidate. If you do, you should be able to secure a position.
Glenn recommends the following next steps:
Cory Yeager, PE, SE, MsC, PPM
49
Answers
Updated
Cory’s Answer
Creat a profile on job search engine (LinkedIn indeed etc).
I would recommend you apply for jobs in and around your target location.
Many jobs are available but unless you are applying directly most jobs are being filled by placement firms and headhunters. This is not a bad thing but understanding that they will only recommend the best candidate they can find to get their fee or commission.
Loads of jobs today are just filling a profile out with a placement firm whether they are connected to a position or not.
At the end of the day it’s not easy to find a job but it’s not a needle in a haystack either. It will require some hustle to stay in front of placement firms, a couple of specialized resumes (yes resumes are written for job not your past experience), a couple of interviews (make sure you ask questions about employer - not all jobs are equal) and lastly be patient cause it’s your career so don’t afraid to be picky (if you have the time and resources to say no). Good luck.
I would recommend you apply for jobs in and around your target location.
Many jobs are available but unless you are applying directly most jobs are being filled by placement firms and headhunters. This is not a bad thing but understanding that they will only recommend the best candidate they can find to get their fee or commission.
Loads of jobs today are just filling a profile out with a placement firm whether they are connected to a position or not.
At the end of the day it’s not easy to find a job but it’s not a needle in a haystack either. It will require some hustle to stay in front of placement firms, a couple of specialized resumes (yes resumes are written for job not your past experience), a couple of interviews (make sure you ask questions about employer - not all jobs are equal) and lastly be patient cause it’s your career so don’t afraid to be picky (if you have the time and resources to say no). Good luck.
Tj Avbovbo
Engineer
5
Answers
Poughkeepsie, New York
Updated
Tj’s Answer
As a professional in the field of chemical and material engineering, I can confidently affirm that electrical engineers are greatly sought after in numerous industries. Once you've acquired essential credentials such as a degree, coupled with practical experience (like internships) and leadership roles, securing a job as an electrical engineer becomes significantly more achievable. Keep going, your future is bright in this field!
Mike Rekstad
13
Answers
Updated
Mike’s Answer
I am an electrical engineer and it is not hard to find a job. Of course it will help to have better grades and involvement in projects you can talk about. There are so many different jobs in EE that you should be able to find something that excites you.
Xiaojie Johan Liu
Consultant
91
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Xiaojie Johan’s Answer
Hello Alan,
Just a disclaimer: I am not an electrical engineer, but am a consultant. From personal observations though, there is a shortage of engineers in the country and if you get an electrical engineering degree from a good undergraduate institution, you shouldn't have any problem in finding a position as an electrical engineer. Of course you need the skills required for the position, but it should not be as hard or as competitive as some other lines of work where there are an overwhelming amount of applicants for every position.
Hopefully this helps!
Best of luck!
Regards,
Johan
Just a disclaimer: I am not an electrical engineer, but am a consultant. From personal observations though, there is a shortage of engineers in the country and if you get an electrical engineering degree from a good undergraduate institution, you shouldn't have any problem in finding a position as an electrical engineer. Of course you need the skills required for the position, but it should not be as hard or as competitive as some other lines of work where there are an overwhelming amount of applicants for every position.
Hopefully this helps!
Best of luck!
Regards,
Johan