In building an establishment, there are components needed to complete it. Most people may not notice it as the finished product does not show much of these components but before finishing a building, an electrical system is applied to follow the design. The electrical system is important in a building or construction as it provides a connection of utilities to an office, a plant or home. The layout of such electrical system is vital as it can affect the distribution of the power needed in an outlet. It is imperative then that an expert plans out the electrical system to ensure safety of implementing it. This job is done by the Electrical Designer.
What is an Electrical Designer?
An Electrical Designer is a professional designer of electrical systems. He is responsible for the layout or map of the electrical system in a building or infrastructure which needs electricity and other forms of power that uses power lines. An electrical system layout is made to properly plan the electrical components wherever it is necessary such as construction, utilities company, communication centers and power plants among others.
Duties of an Electrical Designer
- An electrical designer applies his knowledge on electrical systems in preparing wiring diagrams for electricians and electrical installers.
- An electrical designer identifies the layout or plan, materials and procedures that are essential in order to implement an electrical system.
- He may also guide a drafting personnel if that specific job is given to another worker and he focuses on the design of the electrical system.
- Comprehensive knowledge in computer assisted design (CAD) programs and the latest programs is necessary in this kind of job as all companies use such programs in order to accomplish such electric systems created by the electrical designer.
- An electrical designer should be responsible in carrying out his tasks and follow rules and regulation of the company that he is employed to.
Work Condition of an Electrical Designer
An office setting is usually the work place of an electrical designer though occasional travel is also needed to fulfill his duties. This professional also coordinates his work with an electrical engineer, drafting personnel or an architect depending on the industry that he is working for.
This kind of job requires the electrical designer to work a 40-hour schedule. An electrical designer needs to be physically strong as he may lift weighs up to 25 pounds, climb stairs and expose himself to construction sites and other industrial areas.
Educational Requirements of an Electrical Designer
To be an electrical designer, a training with drafting program from a technical or community college is required. A certification by the American Design Drafting Association or ADDA is also available. Being an Electrical Designer also demands math skills and latest computer assisted design (CAD) knowledge.
Occupation and Progress of an Electrical Designer
The demand for this kind of job is quite slow. It is because most companies outsource this kind of job with the development of internet technology. But in order to have an edge in being an electrical designer, one must be updated with the latest trends especially in the design programs that are being used by companies; and be informed of developments of these programs and other programs so as to keep up with the technology that is rapidly changing in the society. Most if not all electrical designers pursue a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering to have an advantage in their career. Furthermore, others take on postsecondary training to gain more edge over others. Of course companies would also like to promote you if you are willing to take on more responsibilities than you already have.