Electronic engineers are employed in a variety of industries where the work environment may vary significantly. Research based jobs are carried on in laboratories while the fabrication and assembly line jobs are carried on the shop floor. Sales and marketing jobs involve travelling and dealing with market research personnel, agents and users. Teaching jobs are institution based and involve constant academic pursuits. Electronic engineers work under typical conditions in defence, hospitals, aeronautics, weather labs etc.
Telecommunication engineers work in manufacturing industries, research and in services sector. Working conditions vary with the nature of job. Nevertheless the job involves desk work involving technical calculations, design and testing. Field work requires travelling and may be physically demanding. Telecommunication engineers working in the aerospace industry, in defence and at airfield control towers work under significantly demanding situations.
Personal Characteristics
Analytical mind, strong problem solving abilities, sound mathematical and scientific foundation and a desire to be in constant pursuit of knowledge is required for success in electronics and telecommunication engineering. Most engineers work in teams with other professionals hence the ability to work in a team and gradually to rise to the position of a team leader is expected of qualified engineers. Strong communication skills are needed as engineers are expected to present reports and participate in technical forums.
Employment Avenues
Companies dealing with consumer, aircraft or broadcast electronics, hospital and medical equipment, satellite, computers, marine navigation; audiovisual test and farm machinery offer opportunities for electronic/telecommunication engineers. The convergence or blending of technology for telephones, computers, cable, video and broadcast television will require professionals skilled in multitude of disciplines. Engineers from computers, electronics telecommunications/communication have opportunities in a wide variety of companies.
