About This Career

Researches, designs, develops, or tests electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Designs electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.

This career is part of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics cluster Engineering and Technology pathway.

A person in this career:

• Designs electronic components, software, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, medical, military, or scientific applications.
• Operates computer-assisted engineering or design software or equipment to perform electronics engineering tasks.
• Evaluates project work to ensure effectiveness, technical adequacy, or compatibility in the resolution of complex electronics engineering problems.
• Directs or coordinates activities concerned with manufacture, construction, installation, maintenance, operation, or modification of electronic equipment, products, or systems.
• Confers with engineers, customers, vendors, or others to discuss existing or potential electronics engineering projects or products.
• Provides technical support or instruction to staff or customers regarding electronics equipment standards.
• Recommends repair or design modifications of electronics components or systems, based on factors such as environment, service, cost, or system capabilities.
• Prepares documentation containing information such as confidential descriptions or specifications of proprietary hardware or software, product development or introduction schedules, product costs, or information about product performance weaknesses.
• Develops or performs operational, maintenance, or testing procedures for electronic products, components, equipment, or systems.
• Analyzes electronics system requirements, capacity, cost, or customer needs to determine project feasibility.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

People who do this job report that:

• You would often handle loads up to 10 lbs., sometimes up to 20 lbs. You might do a lot of walking or standing, or you might sit but use your arms and legs to control machines, equipment or tools.
• Work in this occupation requires being inside most of the time
• Work in this occupation involves sitting more than one-third of the time

Working in this career involves (physical activities):

• Seeing clearly up close
• Speaking clearly enough to be able to be understood by others
• Identifying and understanding the speech of another person

Work Hours and Travel

• Regular working hours and limited travel