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Electrical or Electronics Engineering Technologist

Electrical or electronics engineering technologists apply engineering principles to the design, manufacture, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of electrical and/or electronic plants and equipment.

Electrical or electronics engineering technologists may work with chartered professional engineers and senior management in the fields of electrical power, computers, telecommunications and industrial control.

They advise employers and clients in their fields of expertise about the application of new technologies.

Electrical or electronics engineering technologists may work in laboratories, factories or offices, or on ships or oil platforms performing maintenance, design, development and experimental work.

TASKS

Electrical or electronics engineering technologists may perform the following tasks:

design, test and develop electrical and/or electronic plants and equipment (under guidance from a professional engineer)
assist with the planning and design of electrical and/or electronic services associated with heavy industries
develop tests and equipment to meet Australian standards
administer plans, specifications and contract documents
supervise the installation, starting up, operation and maintenance of an electrical plant
work out the likely social, economic and environmental impact of a new industry or piece of equipment
be aware of the effects of electrical and/or electronic equipment on the health and safety of staff under supervision

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good at technical tasks
able to identify, analyse and solve problems
good oral and written communication skills
aptitude for computing and design
practical and creative
able to work independently and accept responsibility

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an electrical or electronics engineering technologist you usually have to complete a degree in engineering, engineering technology or engineering science with a major in electrical or electronic engineering. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry and physics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Graduates may be eligible for membership of Engineers Australia. Visit their website for more details.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Electrical or electronics engineering technologists are employed in the design, installation and maintenance of equipment in the marine, electrical, electronic, communications, instrumentation, defence and computer industries.

Opportunities also exist in the processing industries, where electronic control and instrumentation systems are increasingly being used.

With further training and experience, it is possible to become a professional engineer.