Electrician vs Electrical Engineer: Which Do You Need?

Did you know that electricians and electrical engineers are completely different career paths? In fact, you would never call on an electrician to do the work of an electrical engineer or vise versa. Keep reading to learn the difference between the two and discover which you need to hire.

What’s the Difference?

First, let’s define our terms. At JP Electrical, we are electricians based here in Utah. Our primary role is to install and repair various systems that require electricity to operate. For example, our services include working with

• Breakers and panels
• Lighting
• Smart home adaptation
• Outlets
• Generators
• Hot tub electrical work
• Various other improvements.

These services apply to both businesses and homes. We are also involved in the construction phases of such facilities and help make sure that the systems we install have access to electricity.

In contrast, electrical engineers build and design products that will need electricity to work after being manufactured. There are so many different things that require electricity, and so electrical engineers are behind the design of many things we use every day. For example, electrical engineers have been critical in the creation of iPhones, computers, cars, and many other products. Electricians and electrical engineer career paths don’t typically cross. However, there are systems that electricians repair or install that were first designed and built by engineers.

Now that you understand the difference, you should know who to call. Are you a homeowner or business looking for repairs or installations? Call an electrician! If you’re a business or someone with a startup idea looking for assistance in the custom design of an electronic product, you’ll need to find an electrical engineer.

What Does an Electrician Do?

An electrician doesn’t usually need more than a high school diploma, apprenticeship, and a license in order to work in their role. Their primary responsibilities are to

• Wire houses and buildings.
• Connect electrical systems to the power supply.
• Inspect existing wiring and electrical systems.
• Locate electrical issues and conduct repairs.
• Follow blueprints and building codes.
• Operate power tools.

What Does an Electrical Engineer Do?

Electrical engineers will typically have a bachelor’s degree under their belt. In their roles, their responsibilities are

• Create product design plans.
• Identify areas of improvement for existing products.
• Evaluate consumer feedback about products.
• Oversee product manufacturing.
• Ensure that products operate properly.

Need an Electrician?

At JP Electrical, we are your local Utah electricians. Our electricians are friendly and dedicated to providing our customers with quality service. We want the best for you and your home or business. Should you have need of our services or have any questions, please call us at (801) 294-4340.

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