An electronics design engineer uses his highly technical skills and knowledge to design a range of electronic equipment. In order to become an electronics design engineer, you’ll typically have to complete high school or earn a general educational development (GED) diploma. You’ll then likely need to go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Once you’ve earned a bachelor’s degree, you may be ready to apply for an entry-level job in this field. You may, however, choose to expand your job and advancement opportunities by continuing your education until you’ve earned a master’s degree or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in engineering.
Earning a high school diploma is typically the first step you’ll need to take as you work to become an electronics design engineer. While all of your classes may prove important to getting into the college of your choice, classes in math and science may help you build a base of knowledge that may be critical for your college studies, and eventually, your career. Classes and activities that help you build communication skills may prove important as well. Electronics engineers often have to work as part of a team, and good communication skills are usually essential. If you do not earn a high school diploma, however, colleges typically accept a GED as an alternative credential.
In most cases, you’ll need to earn a degree in electronics engineering to become an electronics design engineer. Typically, aspiring electronics design engineers earn bachelor’s degrees in preparation for entry-level jobs in this field. You may, however, choose to pursue further education by earning either a master’s degree or doctoral degree in electronics engineering. Doing so may help you better compete against other job applicants and perhaps secure higher pay. Earning an advanced degree in this field may even help you secure a supervisory position once you’ve gained significant experience.
Completing an engineering internship while you’re in college may also help you prepare to become an electronics design engineer. An internship may help you make sense of the information you’ve learned in class and develop skills that will help you in your career. After you graduate from college, you might even receive a job offer from the company that hires you as an intern.
You may also seek professional engineer certification as you prepare for a career in this field. The exact requirements for certification may depend on where you live and the unique requirements set by the organization through which you will seek a credential. Often certification requirements include passing an examination or series of examinations. In fact you may take one exam before you've become an engineer and another after you've gained significant experience in the field.
