Electronics engineer
Electronics engineers design and develop systems for industry, from mobile communications to manufacturing and aerospace.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As an electronics engineer you could:
- research and design new electronic systems and circuitry
- create technical diagrams using computer-aided engineering and design software
- upgrade older electronic control systems and instruments with new components
- test prototypes and assemblies and analyse data
- service and repair electronic systems
- make sure projects meet safety regulations
- produce documentation and technical manuals
Working environment
You could work in a workshop, in a laboratory, in a factory or in an office.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- become a principal engineer and project manager
- specialise in research and development, such as robotics or semiconductors
- provide consultancy services
- work in patent law
- move into contracts management
You could also register for incorporated or chartered engineer status, which recognises your skills and expertise in the industry.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- complex problem-solving skills
- design skills and knowledge
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to use your initiative
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in electronic engineering.
Employers may also accept related subjects combined with electronics, for example:
- electronic and electrical engineering
- aerospace engineering
- physics and applied physics
- computer science
- nanotechnology
- maths
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
You could do electronic engineering or electronic systems engineering at college before applying for a trainee job.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
More Information
You can apply to do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in electronic engineering, such as:
- Electrical or Electronic Technical Support Engineer
- Embedded Electronic Systems Design and Development Engineer
These take between 3 and 5 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
More Information
You could start as an electronics engineering technician and do further training on the job to qualify as an engineer.
Career tips
Electronics are a fundamental part of everyday day life and there are opportunities to work in many different areas. Examples include:
- audio equipment
- telecommunications
- aerospace
- vehicle manufacturing
- medical equipment and assistive technology
- robotics
Further information
You can find more details about careers and training from The Institution of Engineering and Technology and Electrical Careers.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.