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Job Definition
Apply electrical theory and related knowledge to test and modify developmental or operational electrical machinery and electrical control equipment and circuitry in industrial or commercial plants and laboratories. Usually work under direction of engineering staff.
Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Interests
Realistic - Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative - Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Enterprising - Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
Knowledge
Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Public Safety and Security - Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Skills
Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Learning Strategies - Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Tasks
Write commissioning procedures for electrical installations.
Plan method and sequence of operations for developing and testing experimental electronic and electrical equipment.
Visit construction sites to observe conditions impacting design and to identify solutions to technical design problems involving electrical systems equipment that arise during construction.
Prepare project cost and work-time estimates.
Evaluate engineering proposals, shop drawings and design comments for sound electrical engineering practice and conformance with established safety and design criteria, and recommend approval or disapproval.
Draw or modify diagrams and write engineering specifications to clarify design details and functional criteria of experimental electronics units.
Conduct inspections for quality control and assurance programs, reporting findings and recommendations.
Prepare contracts and initiate, review and coordinate modifications to contract specifications and plans throughout the construction process.
Plan, schedule and monitor work of support personnel to assist supervisor.
Review existing electrical engineering criteria to identify necessary revisions, deletions or amendments to outdated material.
Perform supervisory duties such as recommending work assignments, approving leaves and completing performance evaluations.
Install and maintain electrical control systems and solid state equipment.
Provide technical assistance and resolution when electrical or engineering problems are encountered before, during, and after construction.
Assemble electrical and electronic systems and prototypes according to engineering data and knowledge of electrical principles, using hand tools and measuring instruments.
Modify electrical prototypes, parts, assemblies, and systems to correct functional deviations.
Wages

In 2008, the California average annual wage was $59,330.00.

Most people employed in this occupation were paid between $34,150.00 and $89,570.00.

Outlook

During 2006, there were approximately 23,000 people employed in this field in California. It is projected that there will be 25,300 employed in 2016. This occupation will have about 230 openings due to growth and about 450 replacement openings for approximately 680 total annual openings. This occupation .

Colleges and Training
Below are college programs that are generally associated with this occupation. To view colleges that offer these programs, click on the titles below.
Electrical, Electronic and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician - A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of electrical, electronics and communication engineers. Includes instruction in electrical circuitry, prototype development and testing; systems analysis and testing, systems maintenance, instrument calibration, and report preparation.
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