With China fast emerging as the technology manufacturing hub of the world, the need for qualified electrical engineers is on the rise. This means that for foreign professionals it creates a wealth of opportunities to work in a vibrant market that is also changing quickly. In this article the author will attempt to demystify the jobs available to foreign electrical engineers in China, the industries they can expect to work in, their remuneration, and market demand.
What Do Electrical Engineers Do?
Electrical engineers bear the responsibility of designing, developing and maintaining electrical systems and units. The duties may differ greatly depending on the type of the enterprise these professionals work for. Here are some key tasks that electrical engineers typically perform:
| Tasks | Description |
| Designing Electrical Systems | Creating schematics and layouts for electrical systems in various applications. |
| Testing and Evaluation | Conducting tests to ensure systems meet specifications and safety standards. |
| Project Management | Overseeing projects from conception to completion, ensuring timelines and budgets are met. |
| Troubleshooting | Diagnosing issues in electrical systems and implementing solutions. |
| Collaboration | Working with other engineers and professionals to achieve project goals. |
Daily Activities of Electrical Engineers
On a daily basis, electrical engineers engage in a variety of tasks that may include:
- Conducting Research: Business changes – Learning the new technologies in the market or the latest changes within the industry.
- Design Work: Having designs on software such as AutoCAD or MATLAB, in order to produce models and computerized simulations.
- Meetings: Advising by and consulting with other team members in the project as well as other stakeholders on progress and problems.
- Fieldwork: Checking installments for compliance with standards to be met and conducting tests on installations meant for compliance.
Where Do Electrical Engineers Work?
Electrical engineers can be found in a wide array of industries, including:
- Telecommunications: Organizing the communication channels and also ensuring they are optimally put to use.
- Power Generation: Develop and add-value energy systems, into working in power plants.
- Manufacturing: Supervising electrical systems of various machines and production lines.
- Renewable Energy: Specifically, carrying out activities on investment in solar, wind and other renewable technologies.
- Automotive: Designing electrical systems for automobiles such as electric /hybrid automobiles.
There are many opportunities for electrical engineers in China across the major cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen which has many multinational and local industries that provide many opportunities for electrical engineers to work for.
Are Electrical Engineers in Demand in China?
Yes, China is a place where electrical engineers are much needed. Since the country is rather rapidly industrializing and switching to renewable sources of energy, there is an immense demand for the trained workforce now. And based on the recent report, it has been found that the global electrical engineering sector is likely to increase progressively in the foreseeable future with the support from technological innovation and improvement of infrastructures.
Key Industries Driving Demand
- Renewable Energy: China is the largest producer of solar panels and wind turbines in the whole world; this means many electrical engineers are needed to support this industry.
- Telecommunications: As part of the expanded need for technologies that will support the 5G infrastructure that has been adopted in recent years, engineers are needed to build new communication technologies.
- Manufacturing: Since China remains to be the factory of the world, the demand for automation and control systems is becoming more popular hence providing employment for the electrical engineers.
How Much Do Electrical Engineers Make in China?
Income range of electrical engineers in China depends on the level of experience, geographical location as well as the sector of operation. It is estimated that foreign electrical engineers can get decent wages for their work, particularly if they work in large cities. Here’s a general breakdown of salary expectations:
| Experience Level | Average Salary (RMB/year) | Equivalent (USD/year) |
| Entry-Level | 120,000 – 180,000 | $18,000 – $27,000 |
| Mid-Level | 180,000 – 300,000 | $27,000 – $45,000 |
| Senior-Level | 300,000 – 500,000 | $45,000 – $75,000 |
Factors Affecting Salary
- Location: In general salary levels tend to be higher in first tier cities such as Shanghai and Beijing than in second and third tier cities.
- Industry: Those working in niches relevant to engineering high in demand, for example, renewable power, or telecoms may notice increased pay.
- Experience: As is expected, seniority often earns engineers better remunerations than their junior engineers.
Famous Electrical Engineers
We are all familiar with famous personalities that have defined the field of electrical engineering. Some famous electrical engineers include:
- Nikola Tesla: Famous for his development of the AC power transmitting technology.
- Thomas Edison: This man is well known for inventing the phonograph and the electric light bulb.
- Gustav Kirchhoff: Well known for his works in field of circuit theory and laws of circuitage.
These inventions brought developments into modern electrical engineering and are still anticipated by new generations of engineers.
Job Opportunities for Foreign Electrical Engineers in China
Foreign electrical engineers will have an added incentive to work in China, they have experience and knowledge in new technologies all over the world. Here are some avenues for finding job opportunities:
Job Portals
- 51Job: A leading employment service provider in the People’s Republic of China that provides Engineering jobs.
- Zhaopin: It is a good source for a number of postings in diverse fields.
- LinkedIn: A very useful means for getting contacts and identifying employment opportunities with the great multinational corporations.
Networking
The employment opportunities can be boosted by working on relationships in the field. Watch relevant conferences and expos, become a member of a professional association, and engage with local groups to meet more people.
Recruitment Agencies
It might also be helpful to engaging recruitment agencies that focus on placing international talent in China. It will also benefit to note that these agencies can be resourceful on the job market and the process of applying for jobs.
Fortunately for foreign electrical engineers China is a land of great opportunity containing virtually limitless job openings in numerous sectors. In light of such investment in technology and renewable energy, there is expectation of increase in the demand for qualified personnel. From market knowledge, how to network and get familiar with the trends in this market, foreign electrical engineers can persevere and work well in this market and thus can establish a good future for themselves in China.
FAQs
1. What kind of requirements does one need to meet before working as an electrical engineer in China?
There are many requirements of employment, but every employer expects the employee to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or any closely related field of study. Field experience or practical knowledge and working experience in application of engineering software are desirable.
2. Do Chinese people need to learn Mandarin in order to secure a job within China?
As in many organizations, English is often used in business activities, particularly in large cities but have good Chinese; Mandarin is preferable as it will act as an advantage in lobbying for and getting some of the jobs, and as means of communication with the local workers.
3. How do I get a work visa for China?
In order to get a work visa, a foreigner is supposed to have a Chinese employer who offers him a job. This means that you will need a visa to work in the country and your employer will help you with form completion and documentation, which requires you to meet certain qualifications.
4. Is the wage rate of electrical engineers reasonable for employers in China?
Yes, electrical engineers in China receive decent packages, or are paid better especially if they work within the large cities. The pay, like all things, depends on experience, location or sometimes the company of employment.
5. Which sectors are employers of electrical engineering graduates in China?
These areas have the demand with growth in renewable energy, telecommunication, manufacturing industry, automotive industry and power generation.