Electrical engineer qualifications: How to become an electrical engineer

Electrical engineers play a key role in the construction industry. They are responsible for designing, installing and maintaining the electrical systems that power buildings and infrastructure. From lighting and security to renewable energy and data networks, electrical engineers' work is essential to any construction project.

It’s a career that suits people who enjoy proElectrical engineers play a key role in the construction industry. They are responsible for designing, installing and maintaining the electrical systems that power buildings and infrastructure. From lighting and security to renewable energy and data networks, electrical engineers' work is essential to any construction project.

It’s a career that suits people who enjoy problem-solving, technical design and seeing their ideas come to life on site. In this article, we take a closer look at electrical engineer qualifications and what it takes to become an electrical engineer in the construction industry.

What does an electrical engineer do?

One of the key responsibilities of an electrical engineer in construction is to plan and oversee the electrical aspects of a construction project. They work closely with architects, contractors, and other engineers to ensure systems are safe, cost-effective, and compliant with regulations.

Typical tasks include designing power layouts, creating technical drawings, inspecting installations and solving on-site challenges. As sustainability has become a core focus for many construction projects, electrical engineers often find themselves working on energy-efficient systems, automation projects and renewable power generation to help meet environmental standards.

What qualifications does an electrical engineer need?

There are many routes to becoming an electrical engineer, but a strong technical education is a solid foundation for those seeking this career path. Most employers will expect a degree or the equivalent qualification in electrical or electronic engineering. Practical apprenticeship programs are also available and can help those who want to enter a career in the construction industry.

Common qualifications for an electrical engineer include:

• A-levels or equivalent in maths, physics and design technology.
• BTEC or T-level in Engineering.
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical or electronic engineering.
• Degree or higher apprenticeship.

While a master’s degree isn’t always required, it can help progress into senior or specialist roles.

Do electrical engineers need professional registration?

Once qualified, many engineers seek professional registration with the Engineering Council through bodies like the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) or CIBSE. Being registered with these bodies demonstrates an electrical engineer's competence and professional standing.

There are three main levels of professional registration:

• Engineering Technician (EngTech)
• Incorporated Engineer (IEng)
• Chartered Engineer (CEng)

Professional recognition can improve job prospects and show employers you’re committed to maintaining high standards.

Gaining practical experience

Alongside qualifications, employers value engineers with real-world site experience and an understanding of how projects are delivered. Apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and work placements are excellent ways to gain exposure to live construction environments, build teamwork and safety awareness, and develop essential project management skills.

With experience, electrical engineers can progress into roles such as design engineer, project engineer, consultant, or site manager - and later move into leadership or specialist consultancy positions.

Electrical training courses at Pragmatic Consulting

At Pragmatic Consulting, we deliver a comprehensive portfolio of City & Guilds-approved electrical training courses for professionals working across the construction sector. Our training helps ensure individuals meet vital electrical compliance, safety, and technical standards required on modern-day worksites.

Electrical training courses at Pragmatic Consulting include:

City & Guilds 2382-22 18th Edition Full Course:

• Over 3 full days
• Covers the full scope of the IET wiring regulations, including Amendment 2 (2022)
• Ensures you are up-to-date with the latest industry standards
• Perfect for practising electricians, electrical contractors and installers, as well as professionals transitioning into the electrical industry or those preparing to enter a role that requires up-to-date wiring regulations knowledge.

Find out more.

City & Guilds 2382-22 18th Edition BS7671:2018+A2:2022:

• Over 1 day (including exam)
• Designed for qualified electricians who have already achieved City & Guilds 2382-22 18th Edition, and need to upgrade their certification in line with the latest IET wiring regulations (Amendment 2).
• Idea for electricians and professionals who have previously passed the 18th Edition (2018), as well as professionals needing to certify knowledge of Amendment 2 (2022)
• Also of interest to professionals, contractors, supervisors and installers who want to keep on top of current regulations.

Find out more.

City & Guilds 18th Edition Exam Only (Half-Day).

If you’re already clued up on 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, then explore this exam-only option:

• Half-day
• Open-book exam
• Ideal for qualified electricians already familiar with 18th Edition course content, individuals who have self-studied using the IET Wiring Regulations (Brown Book) or those wanting to upgrade from previous editions (for example, 17th Edition).

Employers looking to certify staff without retraining should also consider this option. Find out more.

City & Guilds 2377-77 In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment Two-Course (PAT Testing):

• Over 2 full days
• Includes: detailed electrical theory, practical inspection, testing techniques and compliance with the IET Code of Practice (5th Edition)
• A great option for professionals (maintenance staff, landlords, office managers, and non-qualified electricians) who need a certificate without committing to the 3-day course.
• No prior PAT experience is required, but a basic awareness of electrical hazards is beneficial.

Find out more.

City & Guilds 2377-77 In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment (PAT Testing):

• Over 3 full days
• Combines two days of theory learning and one day of practical training
• Designed with beginners and those new to PAT (portable appliance testing) in mind
• Perfect for those with no prior electrical experience.

Find out more.

Find out more about what we offer and book your electrical training today. Alternatively, get in touch to discuss your requirements and enquire about course dates.

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