20 Highest Paying Electrical Engineering Jobs

Electrical engineering is a dynamic and rewarding field that offers a wide range of career opportunities. Not only does it provide the chance to work with cutting-edge technology, but also offers excellent earning potential. With the rapid advancement of science, electrical engineers are at the forefront of innovation, driving the development of new equipment and machinery. In this article, we will explore some of the highest paying electrical engineering jobs available today.

What is the role of an electrical engineer?

The job role of an electrical engineer is to design, configure, test, install, and keep a check on electrical components like electric motors, communication systems, radar and navigation systems, etc. People who do electrical engineering can work in various industries, such as aerospace engineering, computer software engineering, and mechanical engineering.

In fact, electrical engineers can also design and build the electrical systems of aircraft and automobiles. Other than the engineering degree, the skills required to become a skilled electrical engineer are organizational skills, active listening, critical thinking, technical knowledge, complex problem-solving skills, innovative thinking, and mathematics & physics skills.

20 Highest Paying Electrical Engineering Jobs

You now know what electrical engineering is and how to succeed in this field. Now, let us know about some of the best paying jobs in electrical products. This list has been curated after a lot of research so that you can opt for the right job without wasting any time:

1. Digital Signal Processing Engineer

Their main objective is to make these signals more reliable and accurate by researching and using high-end tools. The role of a digital signal processing engineer is:

• Initiate, install, support, and convert digital signals.
• Develop signal processing systems and algorithms.
• Convert digital signals for videos, audio, and pressure.
• Design various hardware devices like controllers, microprocessors, and other such devices.

To become a digital signal processing engineer, one must have in-depth knowledge of programming languages like Python and GNU Octave. The average salary in this job role varies from $80,000 to $90,000; it increases as per your experience.

2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Engineer

They are referred to as AIML and called the future of engineering. It is one of the highest paid jobs in Electrical Engineering as they play a crucial role in any organization. Their primary responsibility is integration of humans and machines.

• Design and create systems that can learn on their own using machines.
• Use different algorithms to make the systems smart and capable of understanding patterns in data.
• Run experiments to test and improve the performance of the systems.
• Keep up to date with the latest developments in the field of artificial intelligence.
• Work with data to build models and analyze statistics.
• Train and retrain the systems to make them better and more efficient.
• Aim to develop applications that can learn and improve on their own.
• Contribute to the progress of artificial intelligence by making advancements in the field.

AI is competent in dealing with human behavior and integrating it with machines; on the contrary, machine learning is a part of AI that is capable of learning from data without programming. To opt for a position in this job role, one needs to have a degree in computer science, math, or statistics or a master’s degree in Machine Learning, neural networks, or other related fields.

Plus, it is important for them to have a good knowledge of programming languages, such as Python, R, C++, and Java. The average salary of an AIML ranges from $1,10,000 to $1,50,000 annually.

3. Hardware Design Engineer

If you wish to make good money, this can be the perfect job for you, as it is one of the highest paying electrical engineering jobs. As a hardware design engineer, you need to:

• Meeting with design and engineering teams to figure out what hardware we need.
• Creating and building things like circuit boards, processors, memory modules, and network parts.
• Working with software engineers to make sure the software works well with the hardware.
• Testing out prototypes of the hardware and studying the results.
• Making reports about how the hardware performs and presenting them for feedback.
• Fixing problems and suggesting changes or repairs when something goes wrong.
• Keeping an eye on the manufacturing process to make sure the components are made correctly.
• Taking care of maintenance, repairs, and changes to existing parts.

To apply for a job as a hardware design engineer, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or similar. Plus, one should also have knowledge of firmware languages such as C++, Verilog, etc., so one can program and debug hardware components. The average salary of a hardware design engineer ranges from $1,00,000 to $1,10,000 annually.

Also Read: Ceramic Engineering Salary in India

4. Aerospace Electrical Engineer

This is a pretty exciting job, wherein one has to use their engineering skills to:

• Design airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft.
• Maintain, test, and study aircraft as per the engineering principles.
• Work directly with clients to meet the design requirements of their projects.

The demand for aerospace electrical engineers is high as they work in various industries, such as satellites, aircraft, missiles, and military. This job role has a high demand, especially in the government sector, so if you wish to serve your nation, this can be the one of the best paying jobs in electrical products for you wherein you will also get good remuneration.

To work as an aerospace electrical engineer, one must possess a bachelor’s degree in engineering, but if you want a better position and a good salary, it will be better if you have a master’s degree. The average salary of an aerospace electrical engineer varies from $1,10,000 to $1,20,000.

5. Software Engineer

The role of a software engineer is to:

• Design and develop applications and computer system software using advanced math skills and computer science principles.
• Handle the computer software’s implementation, testing, and analysis.
• Create software from start to finish.
• Write code that is easy to understand, test, and runs smoothly.
• Make plans and decide if the software can actually work in practice.

The demand for software engineers is pretty high because they are needed in various industries, such as for creating computer games, operating systems, business apps, etc. There are various job roles that a software engineer can opt for, such as computer programmer, Industrial engineer, technical support engineer, consultant, computer science analyst engineer, and many more.

To work as a software engineer, you should possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, Computer Programming, Software Development, Mathematics, or a similar field. The average annual salary for a software engineer varies from $1,50,000 to $1,60,000.

6. Communication Engineer

This can be one of the best paying jobs in electrical products if you are looking for one of the highest paying electrical engineering jobs. Their work is usually related to the communication system and equipment. As a communication engineer, you need to:

• Project management for switching to a new firewall system.
• Designing, developing and testing electric equipment that are used in communication systems.
• Handling internet connectivity using backup Cisco routers and Nokia firewalls.
• Managing various construction and service projects in multiple service centers in south-east Michigan.
• Setting up and connecting PCs for controlling networks and routers in data networks.
• Troubleshooting and integrating a prototype SATCOM system.
• Installing, setting up, and updating UNIX-based servers in-house and in data centers.

The requirements of communication engineers are majorly in broadcasting industries like radio, telecommunications, internet & computing technologies, research & development, and networking. The demand for communication engineers has increased tremendously over the years as the telecommunication base is increasing exponentially with time.

To apply for this job, one must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, possess strong technical skills, and be updated with the latest technologies. The average salary of a communication engineer ranges between $1,00,000-$1,10,000.

7. Electrical Distribution Engineer

You can also become an electrical distribution engineer as it also offers a pretty good salary. Their primary role is to help with the:

• Design, prepare specifications, work orders, estimates, and layout of residential and commercial electric systems.
• Prepare and design electric systems within a facility by checking space.
• Determine which circuitry system will suit them appropriately.
• Design the electric systems to ensure the right distribution of power so that there is no overload and to avert outages.

This is one of the best paying jobs in electrical products that is required in almost every industry to determine safe and efficient designs. Many companies want distribution engineers to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as electrical engineering or mechanical engineering.

Although it is an office job but sometimes, they might have to travel on-site to check the installations and layout. The annual salary of an electrical distribution engineer ranges from $75,000 to $85,000.

8. Applications Engineer

The role of the applications manager is to:

• Provide technical assistance in the design and development process to help transform the software concept into reality.
• Design and improve the software that helps in product advancement.
• Perform the required evaluations with clients to understand their goals and then implement them after doing proper assessments.
• Communicate client feedback and maintenance requirements to our development teams.
• Improve applications by adding new technologies and performing updates.
• Assist in sales presentations and demonstrate prototypes and finished applications.
• Identify and fix problems in the software through diagnostic tests and debugging.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in application engineering and new technologies.

To apply for the job as an application engineer, you need to have a bachelor’s or Graduate’s Degree in computer engineering, computer science, engineering, or information systems. Some job roles even demand a master’s degree in engineering. Furthermore, learning search codes like HTML is essential as they help remove unnecessary codes and components. The salary of an applications engineer varies from $1,00,000 to $1,10,000.

9. Electric Control Engineer

It is one of the best paying jobs in electrical products as their demand has increased immensely over the last couple of years. Their primary role is:

• Ensuring the electrical systems operate smoothly in the facility.
• Designing, developing and monitoring all the elements related to electrical control systems, equipment, and machinery.
• Checking for the issues and finding safer & more productive solutions to all the electrical problems.
• Creating and managing systems that control how things work.
• Designing and choosing tools to make these systems work correctly.
• Buying and setting up computer equipment for controlling processes.
• Creating the physical and digital parts of control devices.
• Making sure existing control systems are working properly.
• Writing programs to control machines and making them work safely and efficiently.

You need to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, if possible, but at the very least, you should have an associate degree or a Technical Diploma. Their role differs from company to company as a few expect them to do the installation and provide technical support for PLC-based hardware and software. An electric control manager’s average annual salary ranges from $75,000 to $85,000.

10. Production Engineer

This is one of the highest paying electrical engineering jobs that one can opt for. The major responsibility of a production engineer is to:

• Improve and keep a check on the production of manufacturing plants by creating safety protocols and strategies.
• Improve the machine’s efficiency, which will help raise revenue.
• Define and plan how the product will be manufactured, which includes designing packaging and ensuring that the right quantity of products is delivered and aligned to support the production line’s speed.
• Implement health and safety codes and ensure that the workers use machines correctly.
• Check for issues in the production line.

To apply for the job as a production engineer, you need to have a master’s or accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering design and Manufacture, knowledge of CAD software, strong leadership skills, and good problem-solving & critical thinking skills. The salary for this profile varies from $1,20,000 to $1,30,000.

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11. Computer Hardware Engineer

This is an excellent choice in the field of highest paid jobs in electrical engineering. In this job role, you need to:

• Create computer systems and components.
• Research, design, develop and test the computer systems and components, such as processors, routers, circuit boards, and memory devices.
• Configure, test, and troubleshoot end-user workstation hardware, networking hardware products, and networked peripheral devices.

To get a job in computer hardware engineering, you usually need a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Some companies also hire hardware engineers who have a degree in electronics engineering. Computer hardware engineers have different job titles, such as electronics engineer, hardware project engineer, hardware test engineer, computer scientist, and many more. The average salary for this job ranges from $1,11,500 to $1,20,000.

12. Electrical Project Engineer

Expertise of electrical project engineers spans across diverse industries, requiring a comprehensive grasp of the project’s electrical needs. They are responsible for:

• Design, development, and management of electrical systems within a specific project.
• Collaborate with vendors, subcontractors, and clients, adhering to specifications.
• Ensure the smooth execution of electrical requirements throughout the project’s lifecycle.
• Coordinate and control handling various aspects of electrical engineering.

To start working as an electrical project engineer, you typically need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and some previous work experience. The average annual salary is between $75,000 and $85,000 for an electrical project engineer.

13. Systems Engineer

The role of a systems engineer is crucial in the world of computers. Throughout each stage of the process, from initial planning to validation and implementation, systems engineers work diligently, focusing on aspects such as performance, testing, scheduling, and budgets. Their primary responsibility is to:

• Establish the requirements of customers or stakeholders.
• Determine the fundamental operations of a system during the early stages of developing a product or service.
• Play a coordinating role by bringing together various teams.
• Oversee the testing and evaluation of product or system development.
• Collaborate with project managers and engineering teams, serving as a communication bridge between different groups.

To become a systems engineer, you need to start by getting a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering, or in other similar fields like computer engineering or mechanical engineering. Some systems engineers may also have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or other technical subjects. For this post, the average salary varies between $90,000 and $1,10,000.

14. Principal Electrical Engineer

This is another great choice among the highest paying electrical engineering jobs. The role of a principal electrical engineer includes:

• Supervising the progress of electrical systems and initiatives.
• Leading electrical projects during their lifecycle, including planning, implementation, and monitoring.
• Setting objectives and budgets and establishing guidelines.
• Designing testing frameworks and devising strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
• Addressing and resolving problems and inquiries in a timely and effective manner.

You need at least a four-year college degree in Electrical Engineering, but having a master’s degree would be even better. Furthermore, as a principal electrical engineer, it is crucial to oversee personnel management while ensuring compliance with company policies and regulations. The average salary typically falls between $1,34,409 and $1,70,105.

15. Electrical Estimator

Generally employed by construction companies or electrical contractors, their primary responsibility is to deliver precise cost estimates for new projects or renovations. An Electrical Estimator’s role involves:

• Estimating the expenses associated with electrical projects.
• Encompassing materials, labor, and equipment required for the task.
• Assessing project specifications, drawings, and blueprints to determine the project’s extent.
• Estimating the necessary materials, researching and pricing raw materials.
• Consulting vendors and subcontractors for pricing and availability.
• Preparing and presenting bids and proposals to clients.
• Maintaining effective communication with project managers and stakeholders to provide updates on cost estimates and project progress.

Additionally, they continually refine cost-estimating models and databases to ensure accuracy and efficiency. You can get a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, construction management, or a similar area of study. The average salary of Electrical Estimator is between $65,000-$85,000.

16. Electrical Test Technician

The responsibilities of an Electrical Test Technician typically encompass the testing, troubleshooting, and upkeep of electrical systems and equipment. Here are some specific duties associated with the role:

• Performing electrical tests on a range of systems and components, which may include motors, transformers, switchgear, and control systems.
• Interpreting electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals to identify issues and carry out necessary repairs.
• Utilizing specialized testing equipment, such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and voltage testers, to measure and diagnose electrical problems.
• Analyzing test results and providing recommendations for repairs or replacement of faulty components.

To work as a test technician, you usually need either a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree in engineering or a similar field of study. The average salary for this post ranges between $35,000 and $77,000.

Also Read: Best Paying Jobs in Public Utilities for a Lucrative Career

17. Electrical Systems Integration Engineer

This job profile is suitable for you if you are looking for highest paying electrical engineering jobs. An Electrical Systems Integration Engineer has the job of:

• Automating tasks for projects using programming languages like Perl and ScriptIt.
• Create batch files that can be run automatically without needing someone to monitor them.
• Set up and manage the testing environment, which includes both physical and virtual servers.
• Design and maintain a medium-sized infrastructure using VMware.
• Develop a database that allows multiple users to keep track of development progress.
• Provide recommendations on how to improve fuel economy and reduce costs in areas like engine, air handling, after-treatment, and controls.

You need to have a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or computer science. Additionally, you should have 3 years of experience in electrical design or software. The average salary of Electrical Systems Integration Engineer is in the range of $1,00,000 to $1,15,000.

18. Field Electrical Engineer

Field Electrical Engineers communicate with clients to understand their needs and explain complex problems in a clear way.

• They go to the site to study and research the area.
• They also manage field activities and put engineering plans into action.
• When there are problems with construction or machinery, they figure out what’s wrong and fix it.
• They also respond quickly to emergencies and make repairs or install new systems to make things better.

This should be in your list of highest paid jobs in electrical engineering. To qualify for a job as a field electrical engineer, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and some work experience in the industry. The average salary falls between $80,000 and $1,00,000.

19. RF Engineers

RF Engineers are experts in the field of electrical engineering, specifically focusing on technology related to wireless communication. They work with devices that use radio waves, such as mobile phones, wireless devices, and radios. Radio Frequency (RF) Engineers play a vital role in ensuring smooth communication through radio waves, whether it’s for wireless or mobile devices.

The field of radio frequency engineering has grown significantly in recent years. It has evolved from basic commercial radio, TV, and military communication to becoming an essential part of technology that is crucial for the global economy. RF technology enables various communication methods like Wi-Fi, satellite communications, and 4G networks.

• RF Engineers work on creating technical specifications for products and designing the structure of Radio Frequency Solutions.
• They integrate various modules and components to create a comprehensive solution and develop plans for testing and simulating these solutions.
• RF Engineers are responsible for building the entire solution and ensuring its validation or verification.
• They focus on integrating different parts to create a functional RF system and define the architecture for it.
• RF Engineers also play a role in testing and simulating the solutions to ensure they meet the required standards and functionality.

To become an RF engineer, you typically need to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering. You’ll also need to pass a test called the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and become a licensed professional engineer. The average salary of RF engineers varies between $167,310 and $190,560.

20. Power Electronics Engineer

This job profile appears at the last of our list of best paying jobs in electrical products. It involves a vast range of responsibilities, such as:

• Designing, creating, and testing power electronic systems and devices like inverters, converters, and motor drives.
• Working with electrical and electronic systems to ensure power is efficiently converted, controlled, and distributed.
• Using computer simulations and tests to check how well power electronic systems perform and making changes if needed.
• Collaborating with other engineers, technicians, and manufacturing teams to ensure power electronic systems are successfully produced and implemented.
• Fixing and resolving issues with power electronic systems and parts, including finding and analyzing problems and coming up with solutions.

To become a power electronics engineer, you typically need to have a college degree in engineering and some years of practical work experience in the field. The average salary for Power Electronics engineers is in the range of $88,000 and $110,000.

How to Get Started in the Electrical Engineering Field?

If you also wish to opt for one of the highest paid jobs in electrical engineering, it is important for you to follow the right procedure:

Step 1- The first thing required is an educational background in electrical engineering which means the right degree. You can learn from basic concepts to specialized skills if you opt for electrical engineering.

Step 2- Other than the theoretical understanding, it is important for you to have practical knowledge as well, which you can get by working on independent projects. You can join engineering clubs, where they will provide you with an opportunity to work on different projects. The major benefit of joining such clubs is that it increases your network, job opportunities, study partners, and you can get expert advice or feedback.

Step 3- To grow in this field or get a good opportunity, learn from professionals or people who have been in this industry for long.

Step 4- Take your time to grab a job; by doing proper research about the company. Also, the electrical engineering industry is diverse, so analyze your interest & skillset and pursue the job that matches it.

How to Excel as an Electrical Engineer in any Job Profile?

Here are a few things that you should follow if you wish to excel in the field of highest paying electrical engineering jobs:

• Build your skills: Along with the educational qualification, it is also important for one to have some personal competencies to stand out from the competitors. Critical thinking, active listening, a thorough understanding of the field, and excellent communication skill set is required. As electrical engineers work with other engineers on projects, thus, they need to have excellent teamwork skills too.
• Opt for ABET-accredited engineering programs: To become an electrical engineer; one needs a bachelor’s degree in engineering; thus, it is recommended to opt for a degree from an institute that offers ABET-accredited engineering programs.
• Study Extra: If you wish to opt for the highest paying Electrical Engineering jobs, it is recommended to study extra. This means you should study topics that they won’t teach you in the traditional course. It is important for one to have basic business skills as you will be working with different firms and organizations. Thus, you should know well how to prepare reports, read charts, negotiate deals, and comprehend financial accounts.
• Get a postgraduate degree: To get an edge over others or for a higher salary, opting for a postgraduate degree in a relevant field is recommended. In fact, it would be best if you pursue additional training in advanced math or any other field. Furthermore, you should always stay updated with the latest news and technologies.
• Long-term commitment: To succeed in any career or field, one needs to offer a long-term commitment. It is important because it helps one to learn best practices in the area, particularly when numerous technologies are involved.

Also Read: 21 Best Paying Jobs in Oil & Gas Production for Financial Success

FAQs

Q1. Which are the best entry-level electrical engineering jobs?

A1. Some of the best entry-level and highest paying electrical engineering jobs are electro-mechanical technician, electrical and electronics engineering technician, and junior electrical engineer.

Q2. What are the primary skills that electrical engineers need to excel in their field?

A2. The basic skills required for becoming an electrical engineer are problem-solving, critical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication skills, computer proficiency, and firmware know-how.

Q3. Which are the best remote electrical engineering jobs?

A3. Some of the remote and highest paid jobs in electrical engineering you can opt for are software engineer, electrical designer, computer hardware engineer, and telecommunication engineer.

Q4. What are the job prospects for electrical engineers?

A4. As per the research by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job rise is expected to increase by 7% by 2030. Growth needs will majorly occur because of the people retiring from their positions.

These are some of the highest paid jobs in electrical engineering that you can choose from as per your skills and interest. Most of them offer fair job security and good earning potential. If you have the desired skillset, then you can easily succeed in this field.