A branch of engineering, electrical engineering is the study and design of electrical equipment, technology, and devices that use electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Due to the advancements in technology, the demand for electrical engineers is increasing rapidly.

What Does an Electrical Engineer Do?

Typically, it is the job of an electrical engineer to engage in research and development, and later design, test, and manufacture electrical equipment. An immensely broad field, electrical engineers work with both small and large-scale systems to develop electrical components, power generation equipment, and navigation systems, and electrical motors. Electrical engineers are involved in planning of projects, testing and evaluation, manufacturing, and performing maintenance and repairs. To become an electrical engineer in New York, strong educational foundation is the key. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering prepares graduates to work in a critical role that relies greatly on safety, sustainable technology, and quality assurance.

Education & Career Info

Education Required Bachelor’s Degree
Training Required None
Key Skills Advanced mathematical skills, understanding of electronics, knowledge of science and technology, computer design, and engineering
Job Growth in New York (2018-2028) 6%
Average Salary in New York (2021) $107, 510 per year

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021) and O*Net Online

Steps to Become an Electrical Engineer in New York

Electrical engineers have the opportunity to work in diverse areas that include research facilities, utility providers, manufacturing companies, and telecommunications. To become an electrical engineer in New York or any other state, candidates must acquire additional mathematical skills and have knowledge on physics. To become an electrical engineer in New York, a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is the standard entry-level.

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
  • When choosing an electrical engineering school that meets your requirements, make sure that it is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
  • Students pursuing four years degree program receive training in fundamentals like circuits and electronics, digital system design, telecommunication, and remote sensing and photonics.
  • During the program, students gain hands-on-experience by learning in state-of-the-art laboratories and applying their knowledge to various design situations.
  • Universities in New York give the option of combining four years bachelor’s program into five years master’s in electrical engineering.
  1. Passing Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam
  • After graduating with a degree, it is recommended to complete an internship in related field and gain experience by working in electrical engineering department.
  • It is mandatory to have a license to work in utility field and to become eligible, applicants must pass Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.\
  • Candidates who obtain passing score on the FE exam are called Engineers-In-Training (EITs).
  1. Finding Job that Matches Your Skills & Qualification
  • Licensed electrical engineers can work in different fields ranging from electronics, automotive, telecommunications, IT, gaming, and avionics.
  • Through their knowledge, electrical engineers can enjoy a lucrative career with immense potential for growth.
  1. Take Professional Engineering Exam
  • The highest standard of competence for electrical engineers, Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is a standard requirement if you want to be called a professional exam.
  • PE exam can be taken two years after passing FE exam.

Electrical Engineer Salary and Career Outlook

Electrical engineers work with companies across different industries and depending on their skills, enjoy continuous career progression According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports, the median annual wage for electrical engineers in New York was $107, 510 in 2021. The corresponding national average annual wage was $ 107,890 for engineers. Below are the top paying states for electrical engineers.

State Annual Mean Wage 
California $ 126,640
District of Columbia $ 123,280
Washington $ 118,890
Massachusetts $ 118,100
Maryland $ 117,950

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)

O*Net Online forecasts a 6% increase in employment opportunities for Electrical Engineers in New York between 2018 and 2028. The corresponding national average for this occupation is 7% between 2018 and 2030. Below are the states with the highest employment level in Electrical Engineers.

State Employment 
California 28,070
Texas 15,230
Michigan 10,050
New York 8,960
Pennsylvania 8,250

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021) and O*Net Online