Featured Programs and Schools in Ohio

What Does an Electrical Engineer do

An electrical engineer works on electronic systems and products, looking after everything from research and design to manufacturing and installation. It is their job to focus on safety, keeping in view sustainability and value for money. A diverse field, electrical engineers can work in many areas that include IT, telecommunication, transportation, power and construction, as well as manufacturing.

To work in the field, it is very important to have excellent technical knowledge, be able to manage projects, and work as a team. To become an electrical engineer in Ohio, a minimum bachelor’s degree in electrical or electronic engineering is required. Students are also required to study advanced courses in physics, computing, and mathematics or computing is generally required.

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 Ohio (2018-2028) 5%
Average Salary in Ohio (2021) $95,980 per year

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

Steps to Become an Electrical Engineer in Ohio

The path to becoming an electrical engineer starts with education. While four years of Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) gives the basic knowledge of the engineering field, many students choose to take the extra step and pursue an advanced degree.

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
  • No matter which university you take admission in, make sure that it is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
  • During four years bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, students gain design experience by coming up with a solution or a prototype for real client. Includes coursework in digital systems design, understanding differential equations, and electrical circuit theory.
  • Coursework includes advanced studies in digital systems design, electrical circuit theory, and electromagnetism.
  • Many students also opt for an MSEE degree program that gives them an edge through advanced technical management techniques.
  1. Take Fundamentals of Engineering Exam
  • To be eligible to work in any utility field, electrical engineers are required to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
  • License to work in the field can only be obtained upon passing the FE exam.
  1. Land an Entry-Level Job
  • Mention all the extra achievements in your profile like details of senior project.
  • Highlight any work experience, especially your soft skills like communication, leadership, and good work ethics.
  1. Take Professional Engineer Exam
  • Pursue a Professional Engineer (PE) license to work in leadership roles.
  • After gaining four years of progressive engineering experience, candidates can enroll for PE exam and clear the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

Electrical Engineer Salary and Career Outlook in Ohio

According to the latest statistics provided by O*Net Online, there were 6,830 electrical engineers working in the state of Ohio in 2018. The electrical engineer job market is expected to grow by 5% in Ohio, between 2018 and 208. The corresponding national average for this occupation is 7% between 2020 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

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports, the mean annual wage for electrical engineers in Ohio was $95,980 in 2021. The corresponding national average annual wage was $107,890 for electrical 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)

Top Paying Electrical Engineering Companies in Ohio

According to BLS, the top paying industries for electrical engineers include, aerospace parts and products manufacturing, business support services, and oil and gas extraction. Some of the top paying companies are those that invest in scientific research and development. Ohio has listed the following companies as highest paying in the field.

  • McDermott ($237,858 per year)
  • Sandia National Laboratories ($164,807 per year)
  • Dell Technologies ($145,748 per year)
  • Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical) ($143,125 per year)
  • Lockheed Martin ($136,650 per year)

Top Jobs for Electrical Engineers in Ohio

According to O*Net Online, the projected annual job openings between 2018-2028 in Ohio are 500. Some of the most lucrative jobs for electrical engineers are:

  • Principal Electrical Engineer
  • Director Electrical Engineering
  • Data Center Electrical Engineer
  • Lead Electrical Engineer
  • Electrical Engineering Manager

Some of the highest paying cities for Electrical Engineers in Ohio are Perrysburg, Cleveland, Akron, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Solon.

You May Also Like

How to Become an Electrical Engineer in Pennsylvania
How to Become an Electrical Engineer in Georgia