Interested candidates can expect a career in Electrical Engineering to involve designing, developing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and components. Important things to consider before entering the field are:

• Technical skills: A strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and electrical engineering principles is crucial.
• Creativity: The ability to find innovative solutions to complex problems and think outside the box is important in this field.
• Attention to detail: Electrical engineers must be meticulous and pay close attention to details, as errors in their work can have serious consequences.
• Communication skills: Effective communication skills are important for collaborating with colleagues and presenting designs and ideas to clients and stakeholders.
• Adaptability: Technology is rapidly advancing, so electrical engineers need to be able to adapt to new tools and techniques.
• Passion: A genuine interest and passion for electrical engineering is important for success and job satisfaction in this field.

Job Description of an Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers play a crucial role in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems and components. They tackle a variety of projects, from creating electrical systems for structures to pioneering new technologies in fields such as renewable energy, robotics, and communication. Success in this career requires technical expertise, creative problem-solving, careful attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a willingness to embrace new technologies.

Education Requirements to Become an Electrical Engineer

Bachelor’s Degree: A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions in the field. The typical Bachelor’s program takes four years to complete and covers the following core courses:

• Circuit Analysis
• Digital Systems Design
• Electromagnetic Fields and Waves
• Electromechanical Systems and Devices
• Power Systems
• Signals and Systems

Master’s Degree: A Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering can lead to more advanced and specialized positions in the field. The typical Master’s program takes two years to complete and covers the following advanced courses:

• Advanced Circuit Analysis
• Communication Systems
• Control Systems
• Power Electronics
• Renewable Energy Systems

Top Schools in Oregon Offering Electrical Engineering Degree

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Electrical Engineer in Oregon

• Acquire a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering: The first step towards becoming an Electrical Engineer is to complete a Bachelor’s degree program in Electrical Engineering.
• Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: After completing a Bachelor’s degree, candidates must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to become an Engineering Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT).
• Gain work experience: Engineering Interns or Engineers in Training must gain work experience in their field under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer. This experience must last at least four years.
• Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: Once candidates have completed the required work experience, they can take the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
• Obtain a Professional Engineer (PE) license: Candidates who pass the PE exam can apply for a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which is issued by the Oregon State Board of Examiners for Engineering and Land Surveying.

Licenses and Certifications for Electrical Engineers in Oregon

• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: The first step in the licensure process, the FE Exam is a computer-based test that assesses a candidate’s knowledge of engineering fundamentals.
• Engineering Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT): After passing the FE Exam, candidates can apply for the Engineering Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.
• Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: The PE Exam is a computer-based test that measures a candidate’s ability to apply engineering principles and practices in their field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license: Upon passing the PE Exam and meeting work experience requirements, candidates can apply for a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which is issued by the Oregon State Board of Examiners for Engineering and Land Surveying.

Job Market for Electrical Engineers in Oregon

The job market for Electrical Engineers in Oregon is promising, with an estimated growth rate of 21% from 2020 to 2030. According to the O*Net Online, the employment for electrical engineers in Oregon till 2030 is projected to be 3,310 employees. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, relevant work experience, strong technical skills, creative thinking ability, effective communication skills, and the ability to adapt to new technologies are in high demand.

Electrical Engineering Jobs in Oregon

• Building and construction: Electrical Engineers can work on designing and implementing electrical systems for new and existing structures.
• Renewable energy: Electrical Engineers can play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy systems.
• Robotics and automation: Electrical Engineers can work on designing, testing, and implementing robotic systems and automation processes.
• Communications: Electrical Engineers can work on developing and maintaining communication systems, such as wireless networks and data transmission systems.

Top Companies Hiring Electrical Engineers in Oregon

• Intel Corporation
• Nike, Inc.
• Tektronix
• HP Inc.
• Mentor Graphics Corporation

The hiring criteria for Electrical Engineers in top companies in Oregon involves a combination of education and experience, as well as specific technical and interpersonal skills. A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering is a common requirement, with relevant work experience also playing a significant role. In addition, top companies look for Electrical Engineers who possess strong technical skills, have the ability to think creatively, possess effective communication skills, and can adapt to new technologies. Having these qualifications and skills can give a candidate a competitive edge in the job market for Electrical Engineers in Oregon.

Salary Range for Electrical Engineers in Oregon

As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports, in 2021, the average mean salary for Electrical Engineers in Oregon was around $102,030 per year. The salary range for Electrical Engineers in the state can range from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on various factors such as experience, education, and specific industry.

The industries with high pay for electrical engineers in Oregon include

• Computer and electronic product manufacturing
• Architectural, engineering, and related services
• Scientific research and development services

The other factors affecting electrical engineer’s salary in Oregon include

• Experience: As with most industries, experience is a significant factor that affects salary. Electrical Engineers with more experience tend to earn higher salaries.
• Education: Advanced degrees, such as a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, can increase an Electrical Engineer’s earning potential.
• Industry: As mentioned, certain industries, such as computer and electronic product manufacturing, offer higher salaries for Electrical Engineers.
• Location: The cost of living and the demand for Electrical Engineers in specific regions of the state can also affect salary.

Ways to Increase Electrical Engineer’s Salary in Oregon

• Continued education and training: Keeping up with new technologies and industry trends can increase an Electrical Engineer’s earning potential.
• Networking and building relationships: Building relationships with industry professionals and networking with companies can lead to new job opportunities and salary increases.
• Specialization: Specializing in a specific area of Electrical Engineering, such as renewable energy or robotics, can increase an Electrical Engineer’s earning potential.