What is an Electronics Engineer? A Comprehensive Guide
Electronics engineering is a scientific field that deals with the design, development, and testing of electronic systems, devices, and circuits. An electronics engineer is a professional who specializes in the analysis, design, and development of electronic systems and components for various industries.
Electronics engineers work on a variety of different projects. Some work on the design of new electronic components, such as sensors, microchips, and circuits, while others focus on the development of software to support these systems or the integration of different technologies into a single system.
Examples of Electronics Engineering Jobs
There are many areas of electronics engineering, and as such, there are a variety of different job titles and responsibilities within the field. Here are a few examples:
- Quality Engineer
- Microelectronics Engineer
- Optical Engineer
- Circuit Designer
- Instrumentation Engineer
- Electronics Test Engineer
- Electronic Systems Engineer
Education and Training to Become an Electronics Engineer
There are several routes into an electronics engineering career, including:
- A degree in electronic engineering or a related field, such as electrical engineering
- An apprenticeship or traineeship in electronics engineering
- On-the-job training and experience, often starting in a junior position and working one’s way up
Electronics engineers must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an eye for detail. They must also be able to work well in a team environment, with good communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills.
Progression in the Electronics Engineering Field
As with many careers, there are different levels and opportunities for progression in a career in electronics engineering. Generally, a junior electronics engineer may work on specific tasks, such as design or testing, while more senior engineers may take on project management responsibilities or be involved in strategic planning.
To progress in the field, an electronics engineer may need to develop a range of skills and experience, such as project management, technical writing, and leadership. They may also need to undertake further education or training to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.
Getting Started in Electronics Engineering
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in electronics engineering, there are a few steps you can take:
- Research the field and gain an understanding of the different areas and job titles
- Consider your educational options and choose a degree program or apprenticeship that aligns with your interests and career goals
- Develop your skills and experience through internships, work experience, or on-the-job training
- Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in the field by attending conferences, workshops, and training courses
- Consider pursuing professional accreditation or certification to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field
With dedication and a passion for electronics engineering, a career in this field can be both challenging and rewarding, with opportunities for growth and progression throughout your working life.
| Occupation | Job Level | Salary (Low) | Salary (High) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 09 | $88,171.20 | |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 10 | $110,406.40 | $100,193.60 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 11 | $118,248.00 | $124,716.80 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 12 | $170,164.80 | $158,412.80 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Not able to be leveled | $112,611.20 | $117,686.40 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Entry | $90,396.80 | |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Experienced | $144,892.80 | |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | All levels (Nonunion) | $118,331.20 | $113,256.00 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | All levels (Full-time) | $118,268.80 | $111,945.60 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 09 (Full-time) | $88,171.20 | |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 10 (Full-time) | $110,406.40 | $100,193.60 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 11 (Full-time) | $118,102.40 | $124,675.20 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Level 12 (Full-time) | $170,123.20 | $157,393.60 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Not able to be leveled (Full-time) | $112,070.40 | $117,603.20 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Entry (Full-time) | $90,729.60 | |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | Experienced (Full-time) | $144,788.80 | |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | All levels (Time-based pay) | $118,331.20 | $111,883.20 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | All levels (San Diego-Carlsbad,CA) | $140,337.60 | $118,643.20 |
| Electronics Engineers, except Computer | All levels (Iowa) | $84,468.80 | $85,425.60 |
Electronics engineers, except computer, are highly skilled professionals who design, develop, and test electronic equipment and systems. The job level for this occupation varies from entry-level to experienced, with pay ranging from $90,396.80 to $144,892.80 respectively. The US national average salary for this occupation is $88,171.20 at Level 09. However, at Level 12, the average salary is $170,164.80 indicating that experience can significantly increase pay.
In the United States, electronics engineers, except computer, who are non-unionized have an average salary of $118,331.20, while full-time workers have an average salary of $118,268.80.
The geographic location can also have an impact on earnings. San Diego-Carlsbad, CA, offers the highest average salary of $140,337.60, while Iowa has the lowest average salary of $84,468.80.
In conclusion, electronics engineers, except computer, are highly skilled professionals who command a high salary. The level of education and experience can significantly impact the pay for this occupation. Unionization does not seem to have a significant effect on this job. The geographic location is also a significant factor in determining salaries for this profession.
