When it comes to the world of electricity, there are a few key terms that everyone should know. Two of those terms are “electrical engineer” and “electrician.” While both roles deal with electricity, there is a big difference between the two. So let’s take a closer look at what each one does.
What is an electrical engineer?
An electrical engineer is someone who designs, develops, tests, and supervises the manufacturing of electrical equipment. It can include everything from small devices like toasters to large systems like power plants.
To work as an electrical engineer, you must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. You may progress up the corporate ladder after earning your diploma. Alternatively, you can pursue a career as a teacher or researcher.
What is an electrician?
An electrician is someone who installs, repairs, and maintains electrical systems. It can include everything from wiring in a new home to fixing a faulty circuit breaker. Electricians typically have to complete a three or four-year apprenticeship before they can get their license.
What is an electrical engineer’s duty?
- The main job of an electrical engineer is to design electrical equipment and systems.
- Testing equipment and overseeing the manufacturing process.
- Working with project managers, they may also be responsible for installing electrical systems.
- They conduct tests and research to ensure that electrical equipment is safe and meets all relevant standards.
- Designing new plans or improving existing plans for electrical systems.
- Producing reports and presentations to share their findings with clients or other engineers.
- Producing electrical prototypes and models.
- Supervising and managing teams of electricians.
- Working with computer software to create electrical designs.
- Troubleshooting electrical problems.
What is an electrical engineer’s duty?
- The main work is installing wires, outlets, and other fixtures.
- Reading and understanding blueprints or other diagrams.
- Installing and maintaining electrical panels.
- Inspecting electrical components, identifying problems and making repairs.
- Maintaining electrical equipment and tools.
- Connecting electrical systems to a power supply.
- Testing equipment to ensure the proper functioning.
- Advising on the installation of new or upgraded systems.
The difference between these two professions
Education and training
The biggest difference between these two professions is the education and training required. As we mentioned, electrical engineers need to have a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Electricians, on the other hand, only need to complete an apprenticeship.
Skills and personality
Both electrical engineers and electricians need to have a strong understanding of electricity. They also need to be able to work with their hands and have good problem-solving skills. Electricians, however, need to be more comfortable working in tight spaces and dealing with customers face-to-face.
Work environment
Another big difference between these two roles is the work environment. Electrical engineers usually work in office settings, while electricians often work in residential or commercial settings.
Job duties
Electrical engineers typically work in an office setting, while electricians typically work in a more hands-on setting. Electrical engineers may occasionally visit job sites, but their primary responsibility is designing and developing electrical systems. On the other hand, electricians are responsible for installing and repairing those same systems.
Job prospects
The job outlook for electrical engineers is good, with a projected growth of 7% by 2029. The job outlook for electricians is also good, with a projected growth of 10% by 2029.
Salary
The salary of an electrical engineer is typically higher than the salary of an electrician. It is because electrical engineers have a higher level of education and training.
How does an electrician become an electrical engineer?
The best way for an electrician to become an electrical engineer is to complete a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. It will give them the necessary education and training for the role. Alternatively, some electricians may be able to find work as an assistant to electrical engineers. Again, it can provide them with experience and knowledge that can help them transition into the role of the electrical engineer.
