How to Get Into Electrical Engineering

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING CAREERS

Looking to start your career in electrical engineering? This is your first step…

Looking to start your career in electrical engineering? Whether you're a student, graduate, or someone curious about a career change, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know - from what electrical engineering is, to how to get into the profession, and why RED Engineering Design is the place to launch your career.

What is Electrical Engineering in building services?

Electrical engineering is a dynamic and fast-evolving field that focuses on the study, design, and application of electrical systems. From power generation and transmission to electronics and smart technologies, electrical engineers shape the infrastructure of the modern world.

At RED, our electrical design engineers are part of our MEP services department and are crucial in the building services industry, where they help power and future-proof complex sustainable spaces. These engineers:

• Design building electrical systems using software like CAD and BIM (Revit)
• Collaborate across disciplines to deliver safe, compliant, efficient designs
• Oversee installation and ensure systems perform as intended
• Navigate and implement health, safety, and compliance standards
• Solve design and implementation challenges creatively
• Document and present detailed technical reports

Industries we work in include:

• Complex buildings - Data centres, laboratories, cleanrooms, manufacturing plants
• Industrial - Manufacturing facilities and logistics centres
• Civil & infrastructure - Airports, transport hubs, and public systems (built environment)
• Mixed-use & residential - From smart apartments to multi-use developments
• Commercial & institutional - Offices, hospitals, schools, and universities

Why choose a career in Electrical Engineering?

As an electrical engineer, you’ll be a part of some truly outstanding projects and outcomes. Here are just some of the reasons why a career in electric engineering is highly rewarding:

Problem-solving and innovation

Electrical engineering is all about innovation. At RED, our engineers solve complex challenges for some of the most advanced buildings in the world, from hyperscale data centers to pioneering energy transition projects. Explore our latest projects.

High demand, global opportunities

Electrical engineer jobs are in high demand globally. With RED’s presence in cities including London, Bicester, Newcastle, Dubai, Singapore, and Manila, you could find yourself working on cutting-edge developments anywhere in the world.

We're actively hiring electrical design engineers across all our locations. Explore our vacancies.

Sustainability and career progression

• Impact on sustainability
  Electrical engineers help drive sustainable building design. From integrating renewable energy to optimising systems for energy efficiency and LEED certification, your work directly contributes to reducing carbon footprints.
• Diverse project opportunities
  Whether you're designing for a hospital in the UK or a smart campus in Southeast Asia, the range of electrical engineering jobs at RED offers variety, challenge, and continuous learning.
• Collaborative, creative work
  Working at the intersection of architecture, engineering, and design, you’ll help bring ambitious buildings to life through strong teamwork and problem-solving.
• Career stability and growth
  As global demand for sustainable buildings grows, so does the need for electrical engineers in building services. RED offers structured paths for career development and long-term growth.
• Shape modern infrastructure
  From energy-efficient lighting systems to high-performance electrical grids, your work will power the spaces people rely on every day.

Why choose a career at RED Engineering Design?

RED is a leading MEP consultancy known for its low-energy designs, innovative thinking, and global reach. Here’s what makes us different:

• Sustainability at our core - We’re dedicated to designing zero-carbon buildings and pioneering energy-efficient solutions.
• Global offices, global impact - Work across London, Bicester, Newcastle, or internationally in Dubai, Singapore, and the Philippines.
• Continuous learning - Access to career development, training, and support for professional certifications.
• Diverse projects - From hyperscale data centres to mission-critical infrastructure.
• Team culture - Collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Education & qualifications needed to become an electrical engineer  

To apply for our graduate roles, you’ll need:

• A degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field
• Coursework or projects within building services are highly desirable

For experienced roles, we look for:

• Proven industry experience in electrical design
• Strong understanding of the building services environment

We're actively hiring electrical engineers across all our locations. Explore our vacancies.

Essential skills for an electrical engineer

At RED, we look for a bit more than just technical excellence. Our ideal candidates are:

• Technically competent in electrical systems and software (like Revit or AutoCAD)
• Strong communicators who work well across teams and with clients
• Effective problem-solvers who thrive in collaborative environments
• Curious and committed to continuous learning

How to gain experience as an electrical engineer? 

Looking to build your CV and get your first electrical engineering job?
Here’s how to stand out:

• Apprenticeships: RED Engineering offers apprenticeships that provide real, hands-on learning in electrical design.
• Graduates: Showcase relevant modules and projects in your application (and don’t forget to express your interest in RED’s work and sustainability goals).
• Stay informed: Read up on building services industry trends through:
• BSRIA – Building Services Research and Intelligence Association
• CIBSE – Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
• RED’s own Thought Leadership

Current vacancies for electrical engineers at RED Engineering

We're hiring at all levels:

• Apprentices
• Graduates
• Mid-career professionals
• Director-level leaders

Visit our Careers page to browse current electrical engineer jobs and apprenticeships across all RED offices.

Ready to power your future as an electrical engineer?

Start your career with RED Engineering Design and be part of shaping a sustainable, high-performance future.

View current vacancies