Top 12 Entry Level Electrical Engineer Skills to Put on Your Resume

Landing your first role as an entry-level electrical engineer demands a resume that showcases not only your academic qualifications but also a skill set tailored to meet the industry's dynamic needs. This article equips you with the top 12 skills to highlight on your resume, ensuring you stand out in a competitive job market and pave the way for a successful engineering career.

Entry Level Electrical Engineer Skills

1. AutoCAD
2. MATLAB
3. PLC Programming
4. Multisim
5. LabVIEW
6. PSpice
7. Python
8. C/C++
9. PCB Design
10. SolidWorks
11. Power Systems
12. Signal Processing

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software used for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings and models, widely utilized by electrical engineers for designing electrical schematics, layouts, and other technical documentation.

Why It's Important

AutoCAD is important for an Entry Level Electrical Engineer because it enables precise and efficient creation, modification, and documentation of electrical schematics and layouts, facilitating effective design, analysis, and troubleshooting of electrical systems.

How to Improve AutoCAD Skills

Improving your AutoCAD skills as an entry-level electrical engineer involves a mix of practice, leveraging resources, and understanding industry-specific applications. Here are concise steps to enhance your AutoCAD proficiency:

1. Daily Practice: Spend time daily on AutoCAD to become faster and more efficient. Practice by working on real-world electrical design projects.

2. Online Tutorials and Courses: Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy that offer courses tailored to electrical engineering applications.

3. Use AutoCAD Electrical: Specialize in AutoCAD Electrical, which is designed for electrical design. It includes electrical-specific libraries and tools that can significantly improve efficiency.

4. Join Forums and Communities: Engage with communities on platforms like the Autodesk Community and Reddit. They can be great resources for tips, tricks, and troubleshooting.

5. Read Books and Guides: Invest in books that are specific to electrical engineering practices in AutoCAD. Websites like Amazon have listings of books ranked by user reviews.

6. Shortcut Keys: Learn and use AutoCAD shortcut keys to speed up your work. Autodesk provides a useful list of shortcuts.

7. Customize AutoCAD: Customize toolbars, commands, and workspaces in AutoCAD to suit your specific workflow in electrical engineering projects.

By integrating these strategies, you'll enhance your AutoCAD skills tailored to electrical engineering, becoming more proficient and efficient in your design work.

How to Display AutoCAD Skills on Your Resume

2. MATLAB

MATLAB is a high-level programming and numeric computing environment used for algorithm development, data analysis, visualization, and numerical computation, widely applied in engineering, especially for modeling and simulating electrical systems.

Why It's Important

MATLAB is crucial for an entry-level electrical engineer due to its powerful computing environment and toolboxes specifically designed for algorithm development, data visualization, and analysis, enabling efficient handling of electrical engineering problems such as signal processing, system design, and simulation.

How to Improve MATLAB Skills

Improving your MATLAB skills as an Entry Level Electrical Engineer involves focusing on understanding core functions, efficient coding practices, and exploring specialized toolboxes relevant to electrical engineering. Here's a concise guide:

1. Learn the Basics: Start with mastering the fundamentals of MATLAB. MATLAB's official documentation and Getting Started Guide are excellent resources.

2. Practice Coding: Regular practice is key. Work on small projects or problems related to electrical engineering to apply what you've learned. Websites like MATLAB Cody offer challenges that can help improve your coding skills.

3. Explore Toolboxes: MATLAB offers various toolboxes for specialized tasks. For Electrical Engineers, the Signal Processing Toolbox and Control Systems Toolbox are particularly useful. Explore and learn these toolboxes to enhance your capabilities.

4. Join Community Forums: Engaging with communities can provide insights and solutions to complex problems. The MATLAB Central is a great place to start.

5. Online Courses and Tutorials: There are numerous free and paid courses that can help you improve. Coursera, edX, and MATLAB's own training courses offer structured learning paths.

6. Implement Projects: Apply your skills in real-world projects. This could be anything from data analysis, signal processing to control systems design. Implementing projects will deepen your understanding and expose you to practical challenges.

7. Stay Updated: MATLAB is constantly evolving, so stay updated with the latest features and functions by following the MATLAB blog and release notes.

Becoming proficient in MATLAB is a journey that combines learning, practicing, and applying. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enhancing your MATLAB skills as an Entry Level Electrical Engineer.

How to Display MATLAB Skills on Your Resume

3. PLC Programming

PLC programming involves creating and implementing software logic to control industrial machinery and processes via Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). This allows automation of tasks, monitoring, and control of systems within various industries.

Why It's Important

PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming is crucial for Entry Level Electrical Engineers because it enables the automation of industrial processes and machinery, ensuring efficient, reliable, and safe operations across various industries. This skill is foundational in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting control systems, making it essential for career advancement and success in the field of electrical engineering.

How to Improve PLC Programming Skills

Improving PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming skills, especially for an entry-level electrical engineer, involves a combination of structured learning, hands-on practice, and continuous updating of knowledge. Here are concise steps to follow:

1. Understand the Basics: Start with the fundamentals of PLCs. Websites like PLC Academy and AutomationDirect provide foundational knowledge.

2. Learn a Programming Language: Focus on commonly used PLC programming languages like Ladder Logic, Structured Text, or Function Block Diagram. PLCdev is a good resource for learning these languages.

3. Get Hands-On Experience: Simulators like PLCSim from Siemens or LogixPro allow for practical experience without needing physical PLCs.

4. Join Online Forums and Communities: Participate in forums such as PLCTalk and Reddit’s PLC community to ask questions, share knowledge, and stay updated with industry trends.

5. Take Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy and LinkedIn Learning offer courses tailored to various levels of expertise and PLC brands.

6. Read Technical Manuals and Documentation: Manufacturers like Rockwell Automation and Siemens provide extensive documentation that is invaluable for understanding specific PLC models and software.

7. Work on Real Projects: Apply your skills to actual projects, either personal or professional. This practical application solidifies learning and builds experience.

8. Stay Updated: Technologies and standards in PLC programming evolve. Following industry news on websites like Control Engineering helps stay current.

By following these steps and consistently applying yourself, you can significantly improve your PLC programming skills as an entry-level electrical engineer.

How to Display PLC Programming Skills on Your Resume

4. Multisim

Multisim is a simulation and circuit design software tool used by electrical engineers to visualize, simulate, and analyze electronic circuits, facilitating the design and testing process before physical prototyping.

Why It's Important

Multisim is important for an Entry Level Electrical Engineer because it provides a powerful, intuitive platform for designing, simulating, and analyzing electronic circuits, enhancing understanding, reducing prototype errors, and speeding up the development process.

How to Improve Multisim Skills

Improving your proficiency in Multisim, a popular software used for circuit design and simulation, involves a combination of practice, utilizing available resources, and engaging with the community. Here are concise steps to enhance your Multisim skills:

1. Explore Tutorials: Start with NI’s official Multisim tutorials for a structured learning path.

2. Practice Regularly: Apply concepts by designing and simulating various circuits. Experiment with different components and configurations.

3. Use Documentation: Refer to the Multisim documentation for in-depth understanding and troubleshooting.

4. Join Forums: Participate in forums like the NI Community to ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from experienced users.

5. Watch Video Tutorials: YouTube and the NI official channel have numerous tutorials covering basic to advanced topics.

6. Take Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy or Coursera offer courses on circuit design with Multisim. Look for highly rated courses.

7. Read Books: Books like “Multisim 7: Circuit Design and Simulation Applications” provide comprehensive guides and examples. Check for the latest editions or relevant books.

By following these steps and consistently applying yourself, you’ll significantly improve your Multisim skills.

How to Display Multisim Skills on Your Resume

5. LabVIEW

LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) is a graphical programming platform used for data acquisition, instrument control, and industrial automation, tailored for applications in testing, measurement, and control systems. It allows engineers to visually design complex systems through a user-friendly interface.

Why It's Important

LabVIEW is important for an Entry Level Electrical Engineer because it provides a versatile and intuitive graphical programming environment for designing, simulating, and analyzing electronic systems, enabling efficient data acquisition, instrument control, and automation of measurement and testing processes.

How to Improve LabVIEW Skills

Improving your skills in LabVIEW as an Entry-Level Electrical Engineer involves understanding the basics, practicing consistently, and gradually tackling more complex projects. Here are concise steps with resources to aid your learning journey:

1. Understand the Basics: Start with the fundamentals of LabVIEW, including its interface, data flow programming, and basic functions. National Instruments (NI) offers a free interactive tutorial to get you started.

2. Online Courses and Certifications: Engage in online courses that offer structured learning paths. NI provides LabVIEW Core 1 and Core 2 training, which are great for beginners.

3. Practical Projects: Apply what you learn by working on real-world problems or projects. Websites like Instructables often feature projects with LabVIEW components.

4. Join Forums and Communities: Engage with the LabVIEW community for support, insights, and inspiration. The NI Community Forums are a great place to start.

5. Explore Additional Resources: Books, YouTube tutorials, and blogs can provide diverse perspectives and tips. One recommended resource is "LabVIEW for Everyone" by Jeffrey Travis and Jim Kring, available in many libraries or bookstores.

6. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Set aside regular practice time to experiment with LabVIEW, challenging yourself with new functions and tools.

7. Feedback and Collaboration: Collaborate with peers or mentors who can provide feedback and guidance on your projects. This could be through university groups, online communities, or workplace teams.

8. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with new LabVIEW versions and features. NI’s What’s New page is a good resource to keep track of updates.

Remember, mastery of LabVIEW comes with time and practical application. Start with small projects and gradually increase the complexity as you become more comfortable.

How to Display LabVIEW Skills on Your Resume

6. PSpice

PSpice is a computer program used for simulating electronic circuits, providing engineers with tools to analyze the behavior of passive and active components and circuits under various conditions, aiding in circuit design and optimization.

Why It's Important

PSpice is important because it allows entry-level electrical engineers to simulate and analyze electrical circuits accurately before physical implementation, reducing design errors, saving time, and minimizing costs.

How to Improve PSpice Skills

Improving your proficiency in PSpice as an entry-level electrical engineer involves a combination of mastering the software's basics, understanding electronic circuit design principles, and continuous practice. Here are concise steps and resources to help you improve:

1. Learn the Basics: Start with the fundamentals of PSpice. Get familiar with the interface, how to set up a circuit, run simulations, and interpret results.

   • OrCAD PSpice Designer Lite

2. Understand Circuit Design: Enhance your understanding of electronic circuits. Knowing how circuits operate will help you simulate them more effectively in PSpice.

   • All About Circuits

3. Practice Regularly: Practice by replicating and simulating simple circuits, then gradually move on to more complex designs.

   • Electronics-Tutorials

4. Utilize Tutorials and Guides: Leverage the plethora of tutorials and guides available online to understand specific features and advanced simulation techniques.

   • PSpice User Community

5. Join Forums and Communities: Engage with online communities and forums. Asking questions, sharing knowledge, and learning from experienced users can significantly speed up your learning process.

   • PSpice Forum

6. Experiment with Advanced Features: As you become more comfortable, start experimenting with PSpice's advanced features like parameter sweeps, Monte Carlo analysis, and sensitivity analysis to understand their impact on circuit performance.

7. Incorporate Real-World Components: Use PSpice's extensive library of components or create your own models to simulate circuits with real-world components.

By following these steps and utilizing the linked resources, you'll steadily improve your PSpice skills, contributing valuable insights into your projects and expanding your capabilities as an electrical engineer.

How to Display PSpice Skills on Your Resume

7. Python

Python is a high-level, versatile programming language widely used for scripting, automation, data analysis, and software development, including in electrical engineering applications for simulation and modeling tasks.

Why It's Important

Python is important for an Entry-Level Electrical Engineer because it enables efficient data analysis, automation of repetitive tasks, and simulation of electrical systems, enhancing problem-solving skills and productivity in electrical engineering projects.

How to Improve Python Skills

Improving your Python skills as an Entry Level Electrical Engineer involves a blend of understanding core concepts, practical application, and continuous learning. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure a strong foundation in Python syntax, data structures, and basic algorithms. Python.org offers comprehensive tutorials.

2. Practice Coding: Apply what you've learned by solving problems. LeetCode and HackerRank provide numerous challenges that improve your coding skills.

3. Learn Libraries Relevant to Electrical Engineering: Familiarize yourself with libraries like NumPy for numerical computations, Matplotlib for plotting, and SciPy for engineering applications. SciPy’s Official Documentation is a great place to start.

4. Work on Projects: Apply your skills to real-world projects. GitHub is a fantastic platform to find project ideas and collaborate. Start with simple projects and gradually increase complexity.

5. Read Code: Understand others' code to improve your coding style and efficiency. GitHub repositories in your domain are valuable resources.

6. Continuous Learning: Technology evolves rapidly. Follow blogs, forums, and websites related to Python and electrical engineering. Real Python and Python for Engineers are great resources.

7. Join a Community: Participate in Python communities such as Stack Overflow or Reddit’s r/Python. Engaging in discussions and asking questions can significantly boost your learning curve.

By adhering to these steps and consistently dedicating time to learn and apply Python, you'll greatly enhance your programming skills, which are invaluable in the field of electrical engineering.

How to Display Python Skills on Your Resume

8. C/C++

C/C++ is a combination of two closely related programming languages: C is a foundational, procedural programming language known for its efficiency and control over system resources, while C++ builds on C, adding object-oriented features to enhance code organization and reuse. Both languages are widely used in software development for embedded systems, firmware, and high-performance applications relevant to electrical engineering.

Why It's Important

C/C++ is crucial for an Entry Level Electrical Engineer because it enables low-level control of hardware, efficient manipulation of system resources, and is widely used in embedded systems, firmware development, and real-time application programming, which are core areas in electrical engineering.

How to Improve C/C++ Skills

Improving your C/C++ skills, especially as an entry-level electrical engineer, involves a blend of theoretical learning and practical experience. Here’s a concise guide to help you enhance your proficiency:

1. Understand Fundamentals: Solidify your grasp of C/C++ basics, data structures, and algorithms. GeeksforGeeks offers a comprehensive resource for both C and C++.

2. Practice Coding: Regularly solve problems on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank. This will improve your problem-solving and coding skills.

3. Read Quality Code: Analyze open-source projects or code from experienced developers. GitHub is a great place to start; explore projects and understand different coding styles and practices.

4. Work On Projects: Apply your knowledge by working on small-scale projects or contributing to open source. This practical experience is invaluable.

5. Learn Best Practices: Understanding and adhering to best practices in coding is crucial. C++ Core Guidelines is an excellent resource.

6. Useful Books: Books like “Effective C++” by Scott Meyers and “C Programming Language” by Kernighan and Ritchie are highly recommended.

7. Join a Community: Participate in forums like Stack Overflow or Reddit. Engaging with a community can provide support and deepen your understanding.

8. Stay Updated: The world of programming is always evolving. Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, and news to stay updated with the latest in C/C++.

By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application and staying engaged with the programming community, you can significantly improve your C/C++ skills.

How to Display C/C++ Skills on Your Resume

9. PCB Design

PCB Design involves the creation and planning of the layout of electronic circuits on a printed circuit board (PCB), determining the placement of components, and routing electrical connections to ensure optimal performance and reliability of the electronic device.

Why It's Important

PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design is crucial because it determines the functionality, reliability, and manufacturability of electronic devices. For an Entry Level Electrical Engineer, mastering PCB design is essential to effectively translate electrical schematics into physical, workable boards that meet design specifications and constraints, ensuring that devices perform as intended in real-world applications.

How to Improve PCB Design Skills

Improving PCB design as an Entry Level Electrical Engineer involves understanding best practices and continuously learning. Here are concise tips and resources:

1. Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with PCB design principles. This introduction by Autodesk covers the basics.

2. Use the Right Tools: Leverage CAD tools like EAGLE or KiCad, which are suitable for beginners and professionals.

3. Follow Design Standards: Adhere to industry standards to ensure compatibility and reliability. IPC standards are a good starting point.

4. Component Placement: Carefully plan your layout, starting with critical components. Altium’s guidelines offer detailed advice.

5. Signal Integrity: Pay attention to trace layout to minimize interference. Texas Instruments provides a basic overview of maintaining signal integrity.

6. Grounding and Power Distribution: Ensure robust grounding and power distribution networks. Analog Devices offers insights on grounding practices.

7. Thermal Management: Keep thermal considerations in mind to avoid overheating. This guide by Autodesk discusses PCB heat dissipation.

8. Review and Testing: Always review your design and conduct thorough testing. This checklist by Altium can help ensure you cover essential aspects.

9. Learn from Community and Courses: Engage with online communities and courses. Coursera offers courses on PCB design, and forums like Reddit’s r/PrintedCircuitBoard can provide community support.

10. Practice and Iterate: Experience is key. Keep practicing, learn from each project, and don’t be afraid to iterate on your designs.

By following these tips and utilizing the provided resources, you can steadily improve your PCB design skills.

How to Display PCB Design Skills on Your Resume

10. SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a computer-aided design (CAD) and engineering software used for creating and modeling 3D mechanical designs, often utilized by engineers, including electrical engineers, for designing electrical components, systems, and enclosures.

Why It's Important

SolidWorks is important for an Entry Level Electrical Engineer because it enables efficient design and visualization of complex electrical systems and components, facilitates collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and aids in the simulation and testing of electrical designs, enhancing innovation and productivity.

How to Improve SolidWorks Skills

Improving your SolidWorks skills as an entry-level electrical engineer involves focusing on specific functionalities relevant to your field, such as electrical design and PCB integration, while also enhancing your overall CAD proficiency. Here's how you can improve:

1. Understand the Basics: Solidify your understanding of SolidWorks fundamentals. Start with SolidWorks Tutorials for a structured learning path.

2. Specialize in Electrical Features: Dive into SolidWorks Electrical functionalities that are crucial for electrical engineering. Explore SolidWorks Electrical for specialized tools designed for your field.

3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key. Work on small projects or follow online tutorials to apply what you've learned. Websites like GrabCAD provide numerous models to practice on.

4. Join a Community: Engage with the SolidWorks community through forums such as the SolidWorks Community to exchange knowledge and get help with specific issues.

5. Take Advantage of Add-Ons and Plugins: Look into add-ons and plugins that can streamline electrical engineering tasks within SolidWorks. The SolidWorks Marketplace is a good place to start.

6. Enroll in Online Courses: There are many online platforms offering SolidWorks courses tailored to different levels and specializations. Platforms like Udemy and LinkedIn Learning have courses designed for electrical engineering focuses.

Improving in SolidWorks as an electrical engineer means leveraging the software's vast resources to your advantage, practicing consistently, and staying engaged with the SolidWorks community for continuous learning and support.

How to Display SolidWorks Skills on Your Resume

11. Power Systems

Power Systems refer to the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical power. It encompasses the study, design, and engineering practices needed to ensure the reliable and efficient supply of electricity to meet consumer demands.

Why It's Important

Power systems are essential because they ensure the reliable generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity to meet societal needs, impacting everything from daily life to industrial operations. For an entry-level electrical engineer, understanding power systems is crucial for designing, improving, and maintaining these critical infrastructures, ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

How to Improve Power Systems Skills

Improving power systems involves enhancing efficiency, reliability, stability, and safety. Here are concise strategies tailored for an Entry Level Electrical Engineer:

1. Embrace Smart Grid Technologies: Implement smart grids to improve the efficiency and reliability of power distribution. Learn more about smart grids.

2. Renewable Integration: Focus on integrating renewable energy sources to reduce dependency on non-renewable power sources. Explore the basics at the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy.

3. Demand Response Management: Implement demand response programs to balance supply and demand, enhancing system reliability. Delve into demand response.

4. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI): Utilize AMI for real-time data monitoring and management, improving outage management and customer service. Learn about AMI at Smart Electric Power Alliance.

5. Power Quality Improvement: Use power quality analyzers and implement corrective measures to reduce power disturbances. Fluke offers insights on power quality.

6. Energy Storage Systems (ESS): Integrate ESS to enhance grid stability and store excess energy from renewable sources. Understand ESS better through Energy Storage Association.

7. Cybersecurity Measures: Strengthen cybersecurity practices to protect the power grid from potential cyber threats. The Department of Energy provides resources on cybersecurity.

8. Continued Education and Training: Stay updated with the latest technologies and practices through online courses and certifications. IEEE Power & Energy Society offers resources and training for professionals.

As an Entry Level Electrical Engineer, focusing on these areas will contribute significantly to improving power systems.

How to Display Power Systems Skills on Your Resume

12. Signal Processing

Signal processing involves analyzing, modifying, and synthesizing signals such as sound, images, and scientific measurements to improve transmission, storage efficiency, and quality or to extract information.

Why It's Important

Signal processing is crucial because it enables the extraction, interpretation, and manipulation of information from various signals, essential for communication, data analysis, and system control. This enhances the performance and functionality of electrical systems and devices, making it a foundational skill for entry-level electrical engineers in designing and optimizing technology solutions.

How to Improve Signal Processing Skills

Improving signal processing involves enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of signal analysis and interpretation. Here are concise steps an entry-level electrical engineer can take to improve signal processing skills:

1. Grasp the Basics: Start with a strong understanding of fundamental concepts such as Fourier transforms, convolution, and digital filtering. MIT OpenCourseWare offers free courses on these topics.

2. Learn from Projects: Engage in hands-on projects. Websites like Hackaday provide a plethora of DIY electronics projects that involve signal processing.

3. Use Simulation Tools: Gain proficiency in using simulation tools such as MATLAB or Python (with libraries like NumPy and SciPy). The MATLAB and Python documentation are excellent starting points.

4. Understand DSP Hardware: Familiarize yourself with digital signal processing hardware. Texas Instruments offers resources and training on DSPs.

5. Stay Updated: Signal processing is an evolving field. Follow relevant journals and websites such as IEEE Signal Processing Magazine to stay updated on new theories, tools, and applications.

6. Network and Collaborate: Join forums and groups like Signal Processing Stack Exchange to learn from professionals and peers.

By following these steps, an entry-level electrical engineer can significantly improve their signal processing skills, contributing to advancements in communications, healthcare, and many other fields.

How to Display Signal Processing Skills on Your Resume