What's the difference between an electrical engineer and an electrician? I can't tell you how many times I've heard that question. It's an important question though, especially for those in the electrical industry or for those planning their career. Both jobs are essential for society and continue to be in high demand.
If you're looking for a short answer: electricians install electrical power systems and engineers design them.However, I would hardly consider that answer satisfactory.The distinction between electrical engineers and electricians can sometimes be subtle. Electrical engineers and electricians work together closely. The best electrical engineers will work with their electrical construction counterparts to ensure a design is buildable. Likewise, the best electricians will consult with their engineer when questions or unforeseen challenges arise.
Do electrical engineers always have to do the design? No-In the residential world, master electricians have authority to determine wire size, overcurrent device ratings, etc. per the requirements of the National Electrical Code. In this capacity, electricians are doing both the design and installation. Outside of the residential space, it is common for jurisdictions to mandate that electrical engineers complete the design for electrical systems and sign off (stamp) the design. These larger projects often require detailed calculations and careful planning to complete, the specialty of an electrical engineer. Electricians are then responsible for executing the design by installing raceways, conductors, overcurrent protection devices, and more.
An area of overlap can be in electrical commissioning, the end stages of installation where a system is checked out for functionality and safety. Experienced electrical engineers and electricians both work in commissioning. They may perform and interpret results of cable testing, such as insulation resistance testing, high potential tests, and more. Likewise, both electrical engineers and electricians can check out relays and control systems to make sure they work as expected.
A big difference is education and training. To become an electrical engineer, you must graduate from an ABET-accredited institution with a bachelor's degree in an engineering field. You must then complete four years of work experience and take two exams before becoming a licensed Professional Engineer. Requirements to become an electrician vary by state. In Kansas, electricians start as an apprentice and must complete 2 years of work experience before they can sit for the journeyman exam. To become a master electrician, they must complete 2 years of experience as a journeyman and take yet another exam.
Both career paths are excellent and offer continued growth throughout your career. Should you choose to enter the electrical industry, you really can't choose wrong.
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