When exploring careers in electricity, the roles of electricians and electrical engineers often stand out. Though both handle electrical systems, their distinct differences lie in focus, duties, and the education needed. These distinctions are crucial for those considering these professions.
Electricians are key in installing, maintaining, and fixing electrical wiring, fixtures, and devices. They ensure these systems are safe, run efficiently, and meet all necessary standards. In contrast, electrical engineers delve into designing, developing, and putting into practice electrical systems and products. They leverage their expertise in electrical circuits and power systems to innovate across industries.
The paths to becoming an electrician or an electrical engineer vary. Electricians often start with vocational training, apprenticeships, or specific college courses. Electrical engineers, however, need a degree from a university in electrical engineering or a similar field. Electricians' training focuses on practical skills and safety, whereas electrical engineering education covers theoretical knowledge, mathematics, and design.
Key Takeaways
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and equipment, while electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems and products.
Electricians work hands-on with electrical installations, whereas electrical engineers work in office, lab, and research settings.
Electricians typically enter the field through vocational training or apprenticeships, while electrical engineers require a university degree.
Electricians focus on practical skills and safety procedures, while electrical engineers emphasise theoretical concepts and design principles.
Both careers play crucial roles in ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of electrical systems in various industries.
What Is an Electrician?
An electrician is a skilled professional dedicated to the installation, upkeep, and fixing of electrical systems and devices. They operate across residential, commercial, and industrial environments, ensuring electrical setups are secure, effective, and meet safety standards.
Electricians handle a broad spectrum of tasks, from setting up new wiring and lighting to finding and fixing electrical problems. They employ a range of tools and devices, like wire strippers and multimeters, to pinpoint and fix electrical issues.
Job Duties of an Electrician
The core responsibilities of an electrician encompass:
Installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems and equipment
Interpreting technical drawings and wiring diagrams
Identifying and solving electrical faults and malfunctions
Ensuring adherence to electrical safety regulations and building codes
Offering advice and guidance to clients on electrical matters
Electricians may face the need for overtime or on-call duties for urgent repairs. Electrical problems can occur unexpectedly, necessitating prompt action.
Skills Required for Electricians
To excel as an electrician, a blend of technical knowledge and practical abilities is crucial. Key skills include:
Deep understanding of electrical theory and principles
Proficiency in interpreting technical drawings and wiring diagrams
Outstanding problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
Strong communication and customer service skills
Electricians must also possess the required professional qualifications and licences for lawful and safe electrical work. This often involves completing an apprenticeship and passing exams to prove their expertise.
What Is an Electrical Engineer?
An electrical engineer is a professional dedicated to designing, developing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment. They leverage their expertise in electrical engineering principles, power systems design, and electricity generation to craft solutions that are both safe and efficient. These solutions cater to various sectors, such as energy, telecommunications, and manufacturing.
Electrical engineers typically adhere to a standard 40-hour workweek, with typical office hours. A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, a four-year program, is often the educational foundation for this role. The NZ job market for electrical engineers is anticipated to grow by more than 3% from 2021 to 2031, with an average annual salary exceeding $95,000. Entry-level positions start around $77,000, while seasoned engineers can earn up to $160,000, with an hourly rate of $48.72 for those with experience.
Responsibilities of an Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers undertake a broad spectrum of duties, including:
Designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components
Working with diverse teams to devise and implement efficient power distribution solutions
Employing software tools to design and optimise electrical circuits
Assessing economic factors and ensuring projects adhere to budget constraints
Assigning tasks and managing teams for the timely completion of projects
Ensuring all work complies with health and safety standards and regulations
Essential Skills for Electrical Engineers
To excel, electrical engineers must master a broad array of skills, including:
Deep knowledge of mathematics, physics, and electrical engineering principles
Proficiency in computer software and hardware, alongside an understanding of other engineering disciplines
Strong analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail for complex problem-solving
A creative and innovative approach to develop new solutions and enhance existing systems
Effective verbal and written communication skills for team collaboration and technical information dissemination to non-technical audiences
Project management skills for the planning, implementation, and upkeep of electrical systems and power distribution networks
Key Differences Between an Electrician and an Electrical Engineer
Electricians and electrical engineers both work with electrical systems but have distinct roles and environments. Knowing these differences can guide you in choosing a career that suits your skills and goals.
Focus of Work
Electricians focus on installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring and systems in various settings. They ensure these systems operate safely and efficiently, following all relevant codes and standards.
Electrical engineers, however, concentrate on designing, developing, and testing electrical equipment and systems. They use electrical theory and mathematics to innovate solutions across industries like telecommunications and aerospace.
Work Environment
Electricians work on construction sites, in homes, and businesses, facing diverse weather and hazards. They often stand, climb ladders, and work in tight spaces to install and repair electrical systems.
Electrical engineers work mainly in offices, labs, or industrial plants. They design and test electrical systems with computer software and advanced tools. Sometimes, they visit sites to oversee their designs or solve problems.
Tools and Equipment Used
Electricians use hand and power tools like wire strippers and drills for their work. They also employ specialized tools, including conduit benders and thermal scanners, for wiring and circuit maintenance.
Electrical engineers mainly use software like CAD and simulation tools to design and test electrical systems. They also use oscilloscopes and multimeters to check electrical components and systems.
Educational Requirements and Training
To become an electrician or an electrical engineer, you must meet certain educational standards and complete specific training. The journey to becoming a professional varies, requiring different skills and knowledge for each role.
Becoming a Qualified Electrician in New Zealand
In New Zealand, those wanting to be electricians can start by taking a college course or an apprenticeship. Options include the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory (Level 3) or the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 4). These courses lay a strong base in electrical theory, safety rules, and practical skills.
To be a fully qualified electrician, you must pass practical tests and get an Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) licence. This licence proves you have the skills and follow electrical safety laws.
Educational Path to Becoming an Electrical Engineer
To aim for a career as an electrical engineer in New Zealand, a four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree in electrical engineering is usually required. This programme gives you a deep understanding of electrical systems, circuit design, control systems, and power generation.
While studying, you'll build a solid base in maths, physics, and computer science, crucial for the field. You'll also get practical experience through lab work and projects, putting your theory into practice.
For further expertise and career advancement, postgraduate studies like a Master's degree or a PhD in electrical engineering are beneficial. These advanced degrees offer specialisation and research opportunities, letting you explore specific areas of electrical engineering deeply.
Salary Comparison and Career Prospects
In the electrical industry, electrical engineers typically earn more than electricians. This is because they have more advanced education and handle design tasks. While according to NZ employment statitistics, Electrical Engineers made a median annual wage of $95,000 in May 2019. Electricians, on the other hand, earned a median salary of $78,000.
Entry-level engineering jobs for those with a bachelor's degree start around $77,000. Those with a master's or PhD in electrical, computer, software, or cyber security engineering can earn even more.
In the UK, a person with a master's degree in electrical engineering from a British university might find themselves earning £18k pro rata in a trainee position. This is a drop from their previous job paying £40k pro rata. However, electricians in their area often earn more than senior electrical designers, including the individual in their current role. This suggests that experienced electricians with special skills or those running their own businesses can earn more than some electrical engineering positions, depending on the local market.
Both electrical engineers and electricians have promising career prospects. The demand for skilled professionals in the electrical industry is steady. Electrical engineers are expected to see a 3% growth from 2021 to 2031. Electricians are projected to see an 8% increase in demand over the same period.
Electrical engineering and computer engineering are among the fastest-growing fields in New Zealand. This ensures a wealth of opportunities for those with the right qualifications and skills.
Conclusion
Electricians and electrical engineers are crucial to the electrical sector, each with distinct roles and skills. Both professions stress safety, with electricians following strict safety codes and regulations. Electrical engineers design with safety in mind, conducting risk assessments. While electricians focus on various sectors within the electrical industry, electrical engineers excel in diverse electrical engineering areas. Their combined efforts ensure electrical systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably in all our lives.
FAQ
What is the main difference between an electrician and an electrical engineer?
Electricians focus on installing and maintaining electrical systems. They work on-site, fixing faults, testing wiring, and connecting components. In contrast, electrical engineers design these systems. They work mainly in offices, using computers, and sometimes inspect or supervise on-site.
What skills do electricians need to succeed in their profession?
Electricians require a solid grasp of machines and tools, strong maths skills, and the ability to solve problems. They must also be adept at working with their hands in challenging environments. Crucially, they need excellent customer service and communication skills, particularly if they run their own businesses.
What are the essential skills for electrical engineers?
Electrical engineers need deep knowledge of maths, physics, computer technology, and other engineering disciplines. They must excel in analysis, have a keen eye for detail, and be adept at solving complex problems. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are also vital for success.
How can I become a qualified electrician in New Zealand?
To become an electrician in New Zealand, one can pursue a college course or an apprenticeship. Options include the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory (Level 3) or the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 4). Full qualification requires passing practical tests and obtaining a licence from the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB).
What education is required to become an electrical engineer in New Zealand?
Electrical engineers typically earn a four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree with a focus on electrical engineering. Some may further their education with postgraduate studies to boost their skills and career opportunities.
Which profession earns a higher salary, electricians or electrical engineers?
Electrical engineers generally command higher salaries due to their advanced education and design roles. In New Zealand, electricians' median salary is about NZD 59,000 annually. Electrical engineers earn a median salary of around NZD 75,000 yearly. Yet, experienced electricians with special skills or those running their businesses may earn more.