Electrical engineers work on equipment, components and systems used in commercial, industrial, scientific and other settings. In the United States, the O*NET occupational profile for electrical engineers describes work ranging from design and testing to coordinating installation and investigating system problems. Individual positions differ in their duties and preparation requirements.
What electrical engineers may do
Some engineers design or improve electrical instruments, equipment and facilities. Their work can include calculations, technical drawings and specifications, or the use of computer-assisted engineering and design tools. Others test products, inspect installations or investigate equipment and power-system problems.
Engineering work also involves communication. O*NET lists discussing projects with engineers and customers, writing technical reports, preparing equipment specifications and coordinating work with others. Depending on the position, an engineer may oversee production, installation, maintenance or testing activities.
Areas of work to explore
The occupational profile includes a range of project activities. An engineer interested in controls might work on systems that control equipment or develop software for electrical systems. Someone interested in power systems might study system data or investigate operating problems. Other listed tasks include developing or integrating renewable energy systems and designing equipment that uses energy efficiently.
These examples describe activities within the occupation, rather than a fixed list of positions. A job title alone does not establish the work a particular employer expects. O*NET lists reported titles such as electrical design engineer, electrical controls engineer, project engineer and test engineer.
Knowledge, skills and work setting
O*NET identifies engineering and technology, computers and electronics, design, mathematics and physics among the knowledge areas relevant to the occupation. It also lists skills such as critical thinking, writing, listening, complex problem solving and systems analysis. The balance of technical and communication skills depends on the assignment.
Work can involve computer-based analysis and documentation as well as discussions with colleagues or customers. The profile also describes inspecting completed installations and observing operations. Its work-context responses include both controlled indoor settings and the use of protective equipment; they should not be treated as a description of every engineering job.
Preparing and evaluating opportunities
O*NET places electrical engineers in a job zone associated with considerable preparation. Its broader job-zone description says most occupations in that zone require a four-year bachelor's degree, while some do not. Its occupation-specific education responses include bachelor's, associate's and master's degrees. Neither description establishes the requirements for every position, so review each employer's stated qualifications and responsibilities.
When comparing roles, look at the systems involved, whether the work emphasizes design, testing, field observation or coordination, and what training or experience the position asks for. The occupational profile can help identify terms and activities to investigate further.
Source and job prospects
This overview is based on O*NET OnLine’s Electrical Engineers profile, occupation 17-2071.00, marked updated 2026. An occupational outlook or job-prospects indicator describes a broader employment context; it is not a list of current vacancies. To find an actual opening, check a current posting and its application details.