What occupation offers an incredible range of tasks, from
working on massive electrical power systems to small-scale
electronic systems such as computers and integrated circuits?
Electrical engineering technology doesjust that, and it impacts
just about every facet of operations in the oil and gas
industry.
Do you get a "charge" out of working with high-voltage
generation, transmission and distribution systems? Perhaps you're
intrigued by sophisticated electronic control systems. Maybe you
see yourself upgrading complex electrical systems in production
plants.
If these opportunities "spark" your interest, a career as an
Electrical Engineering Technologist and Technician may be for
you!
What do Electrical Engineering Technologistsand Technicians
do?
Electrical Engineering Technologists and
Technicians assist Electrical Engineers in design, data
interpretation, technical consultation, specification preparation,
planning, analyses and project management. There are several
engineering fields from which Technologist jobs are derived. These
fields include power, control, instrumentation, electronics,
digital communications, computer, telecommunications, and
mechatronics (mechanical/electrical combination). You have several
typical jobs to choose from:
- Electrical Project
Technologists: Coordinate electrical upgrades to
facilities, equipment and systems. They oversee the work of
electrical engineering and construction contractors by scheduling
work, procuring equipment, and arranging electrical permits and
inspections.
- Electrical Design
Technologists: Develop and analyse 2D and 3D computerized
drawings based on sketches, notes, mark-ups and specifications
provided by engineers, designers and surveyors. They design
layouts, schematics, diagrams, schedules and installation
details.
- Electrical
Estimators: Prepare construction cost estimates for
electrical materials, labour and equipment based on design
drawings, specifications, bids, quotations and business
needs.
- Control Systems/Programmable
Logic Control (PLC) Programmer: Program, test and
troubleshoot process control equipment and system components. They
repair, install, troubleshoot and maintain electronic, electrical,
pneumatic and mechanical control systems.
- Electrical Sales
Representative/Account Manager: Provide advice on the
specifications, design, fabrication, installation, testing,
operation and troubleshooting of electrical-related products and
services.
How do I become an Electrical EngineeringTechnologist and
Technician?
A two or three year Electrical Engineering Technologist diploma
from a recognized technical institute is the minimum requirement.
You can pursue various technology disciplines such as electrical,
electronics, drafting, petroleum and mining.
Graduates may be granted certification by provincial
associations of the Canadian Council of Technicians and
Technologists (CCTT). Certification usually requires a minimum two
years of experience after graduation. To check out the
associations, visit the CCTT website at www.cctt.ca.
You will need a valid driver's license in good standing as
travel to worksites may be required.
What are the working conditions like?
Most Electrical Engineering Technologists and Technicians work
regular hours in comfortable office settings at operator or
engineer consulting firms. Others typically work shift hours at
plant sites, fabrication shops, and field/construction sites.
While on site, technologists must follow strict safety
procedures to avoid injury from electrical shock. Overtime and
on-call rotations may be required to meet deadlines. In some jobs,
lifting up to 20 kilogramsis required. Exposure to noise and dust
is also possible at some locations. Plants, facilities and
construction sites may be located in rural or isolated regions
requiring travel, overnight stays, or relocation.
Do I fit the bill?
Do you think you have what it takes to become an
Electrical Engineering Technologist and Technician?
- I am interested in electrical systems
and curious about how things fit together and operate.
- I pay special attention to detail and
accuracy and am not easily distracted.
- I enjoy problem solving and take a
methodical approach to analyzing problems and finding
solutions.
- I am a great
multi-tasker.
- I can take directions well and show
initiative.
- I am capable of working under
deadlines.
- I believe that applying proper
procedures, standards, codes and policies is very
important.
- I am quite versatile and can work on
my own or with a team.
- I have well developed communication
and computer literacy skills.
- I can follow safety rules and
precautions, and understand their importance when dealing with
potentially hazardous material and equipment.
- I can work rotational shifts and long
hours, and do not mind changes in routine.
- I believe that I have what it takes
to be an excellent Electrical Engineering Technologist and
Technician!
Quick tips and next steps!
- Visit career fairs and talk to
employers who offer jobs and careers in this occupation.Check with
employment centres, educational institutions, newspapers,
petroleumrelatedmagazines and the internet for information on
career fairs.
- While in high school, sharpen your
skills and knowledge in areas such as mathematics,electricity and
electronics, physics and computer science.
- Participate in National
Technology Week which is held annually during November
andoffers a host of activities along with interactive and fun
resources to help students,teachers and parents explore technical
careers.
- Read issues of the magazine,
Electricity Today, which can be downloaded at www.electricity-today.com
and Electrical Source, found at www.electrical-source.com.
Also check out the Electrical Construction &
Maintenance magazine at ecmweb.com.
- Check out websites of industry and
professional associations such as the CanadianCouncil of
Technicians and Technologists at cctt.ca.
Want more info?
For information on other industry occupations check out www.careersinoilandgas.com.