Electronic Engineer Career Description

An electronic engineer designs, develops and tests the production of electronic equipment, gadgets and devices. Electronic engineers also repair, calibrate, and install electronic equipment and machinery. With the crossovers of computer, electrical and electronics sciences and the influence of electronics in a diversity of applications, electronics engineering is one of the fastest growing and most sought after professions. An electronics engineer works in varied work settings and industries and works collaboratively with electrical and computer engineers on diverse products and applications.

Education

Electronic engineers generally acquire a Bachelor's or Master's degree in electronics and electrical engineering from state colleges or universities. However, professionals with a diploma or an Associate's degree in electronics can find work.

Specializations

An electronic engineer can specialize in consumer electronics, satellite radio and telecommunications, GPS systems and applications, optics, avionics, automobile electronics and fields/domains related to IT and computers.

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities are varied and have increased with the widespread use of electronics in many applications. Electronic engineers work for broadcast and telecommunication companies, defense contractors, entertainment electronics companies, avionics and automobile corporations, electrical utilities companies, and energy and industrial firms.

Other Skills

Most electronic engineers have to possess good communications skills, an effective team work ethic and an innovative mindset to succeed in diverse, dynamic and highly competitive work environments.

Salaries

Salaries of electronic engineers are strictly commensurate with qualifications, experience and state level job market dynamics. However, an electronic engineer generally earns a median salary of $40,000 in most states with highly experienced ones commanding annual salaries of $70,000-plus.