Career Advice

How to Find Electrical Engineering Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in the UK in 2025

Electrical engineering continues to be a highly sought-after profession in the UK, given its role in industries such as energy, manufacturing, transportation and construction. For international professionals, securing an electrical engineering job with visa sponsorship in the UK in 2025 is an exciting opportunity, but it requires a strategic approach.

This article will guide you through the steps to find electrical engineering jobs, the skills and qualifications you’ll need, visa options, and tips to boost your chances of success.

The UK Job Market for Electrical Engineers

The UK’s focus on renewable energy, smart technology, and infrastructure development has driven a steady demand for electrical engineers. Key sectors hiring electrical engineers include power generation, automotive, telecommunications, and building services.

Current Trends in the Job Market:

Renewable Energy Boom: Projects in wind, solar, and other renewable sources are creating numerous roles.
Infrastructure Projects: The UK’s emphasis on rail electrification, smart grids, and green buildings is fuelling demand.
Technology Integration: Industries are embracing automation, IoT, and AI, requiring electrical engineers with expertise in these areas.
Salary Range: Entry-level roles start at around £30,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning upwards of £50,000.

Key Career Paths in Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering is a diverse field offering a range of career paths. Here are some popular specialisations:

1. Power Systems Engineering: Design and maintenance of electrical power grids, renewable energy systems, and distribution networks.

2. Electronics Engineering: Focuses on designing, testing, and improving electronic devices and systems, from consumer electronics to industrial applications.

3. Control and Automation Engineering: Specialises in designing automated systems for industries like manufacturing, energy, and transportation.

4. Telecommunications Engineering: Involves the development of telecommunication networks and technologies, including fibre optics, satellites, and wireless systems.

5. Building Services Engineering: Focuses on electrical systems in buildings, including lighting, HVAC, and energy efficiency solutions.

6. Railway Electrification Engineering: Works on rail infrastructure, particularly in electrification and signalling systems.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Electrical engineers play a critical role in designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and components across various industries. Their responsibilities vary depending on the industry and specialisation, but here’s an overview of typical day-to-day tasks:

1. Designing and Developing Systems

Creating electrical systems for products, buildings, or infrastructure projects.
Using software tools like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or Simulink for circuit and system design.
Testing prototypes and refining designs to ensure functionality and efficiency.

2. Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Diagnosing issues in electrical systems or equipment and implementing repairs.
Regularly inspecting systems to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Collaborating with maintenance teams to ensure systems remain operational.

3. Project Management

Managing timelines and budgets for electrical projects.
Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical engineers, architects, and contractors.
Overseeing the installation of electrical systems to ensure proper implementation.

4. Testing and Quality Assurance

Conducting tests on electrical components and systems to verify performance.
Ensuring systems meet industry standards, such as BS 7671 in the UK.
Preparing detailed reports on test results and recommending improvements.

5. Research and Development

Exploring new technologies, such as renewable energy solutions or smart systems.
Conducting research to improve energy efficiency or enhance system capabilities.
Developing innovative solutions to complex engineering problems.

6. Documentation and Reporting

Preparing technical drawings, specifications, and system schematics.
Writing detailed reports for stakeholders, including performance assessments and compliance documentation.
Keeping records of maintenance, repairs, and system updates for audits.

7. Meeting Compliance Standards

Ensuring systems adhere to UK regulations, including safety codes, environmental laws, and energy standards.
Staying updated with evolving industry guidelines to maintain compliance.

8. Client and Stakeholder Collaboration

Communicating technical information to clients and stakeholders.
Advising on the best electrical solutions for specific projects or challenges.
Providing ongoing support and consultation after project completion.

Work Environments for Electrical Engineers

Electrical engineers may work in a variety of settings, including:

Offices: For design, planning, and documentation tasks.
On-Site Locations: For system installations, inspections, and troubleshooting.
Laboratories: For testing components and systems.
Remote Locations: For fieldwork in industries like energy or telecommunications.

By balancing technical expertise, problem-solving, and collaboration, electrical engineers contribute to the success of projects across industries every day. Understanding these day-to-day responsibilities can help candidates prepare for the role and demonstrate relevant experience during the job application process.

Skills and Qualifications Needed

To land an electrical engineering job in the UK, you need a mix of technical expertise, industry certifications, and transferable soft skills.

Technical Skills:

Circuit Design: Proficiency in tools like AutoCAD, MATLAB, and PCB design software.
Programming: Familiarity with languages like Python, C++, or Java for automation and IoT applications.
Power Systems: Expertise in high-voltage systems, renewable energy systems, and smart grid technologies.
Testing and Troubleshooting: Hands-on experience with testing equipment like oscilloscopes and multimeters.
Standards and Compliance: Knowledge of UK electrical codes (BS 7671) and international standards like IEC and IEEE.

Qualifications:

Degree: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field is essential.
Chartered Engineer (CEng): Working toward or holding a Chartered Engineer status through institutions like the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology) boosts your employability.
Certifications: Certifications such as Six Sigma, PLC Programming, or specialised renewable energy training are valuable.

Soft Skills:

Problem-solving: Critical for troubleshooting and designing efficient systems.
Communication: Ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Teamwork: Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams is common in large projects.
Adaptability: Willingness to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving industry trends.

Top Companies for Visa Sponsorship

Here are the top five companies in the UK that hire electrical engineers, along with a brief introduction to each:

1. Siemens

Industry: Technology, Energy, Automation

UK Headquarters: Surrey

Siemens is a global technology leader specialising in electrification, automation, and digitalisation. In the UK, Siemens works on cutting-edge projects in energy management, smart infrastructure, and manufacturing. The company offers electrical engineers opportunities to work on transformative technologies such as renewable energy systems and advanced automation solutions.

Apply for visa-sponsored roles at Siemens here.

2. Rolls-Royce

Industry: Aerospace, Marine, Energy

UK Headquarters: Derby

Rolls-Royce is renowned for its high-performance power systems and engineering excellence. The company designs and manufactures engines for the aerospace and marine sectors, as well as power systems for the energy industry. Electrical engineers at Rolls-Royce are involved in innovative projects, including sustainable aviation and hybrid-electric propulsion.

Apply for visa-sponsored roles at Rolls-Royce here.

3. BAE Systems

Industry: Defence, Security, Aerospace

UK Headquarters: Farnborough

BAE Systems is a global defence and aerospace company known for its cutting-edge military and security technologies. Electrical engineers at BAE Systems work on advanced systems such as radar, electronic warfare, and aircraft electrification, contributing to national security and global innovation.

Apply for visa-sponsored roles at BAE Systems here.

4. Schneider Electric

Industry: Energy Management, Automation

UK Headquarters: London

Schneider Electric specialises in sustainable energy management and automation solutions. The company provides electrical engineers opportunities to design and implement innovative systems that optimise energy efficiency and support renewable energy integration. Their projects span industries such as building services, infrastructure, and data centres.

Apply for visa-sponsored roles at Schneider Electric here.

5. National Grid

Industry: Energy Transmission, Infrastructure

UK Headquarters: Warwick

National Grid operates and maintains the UK’s electricity and gas transmission network. Electrical engineers at National Grid play a key role in modernising the grid, integrating renewable energy sources, and ensuring the stability of the country’s energy supply. The company is a cornerstone of the UK’s green energy transition.

Apply for visa-sponsored roles at National Grid here.

6. WSP

Industry: Engineering Consultancy, Infrastructure

UK Headquarters: London

WSP is a leading engineering consultancy firm involved in designing and delivering infrastructure projects across the UK. Electrical engineers at WSP work on diverse projects such as smart building systems, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable transportation electrification. The company is known for its focus on innovation and environmental sustainability.

Apply for visa-sponsored roles at WSP here.

These companies are leaders in their respective industries, offering electrical engineers the chance to work on impactful projects while advancing their careers in a dynamic environment.

Visa Options for Electrical Engineers in the UK

International candidates must secure the appropriate visa to work in the UK. The Skilled Worker Visa is the most common route for electrical engineers.

1. Skilled Worker Visa

Requires a job offer from a UK-based employer licensed to sponsor visas.
The role must meet the skill and salary threshold, usually £38,700 per year.
For engineering roles, many employers often hire candidates from overseas.

You can learn more about the Skilled Worker visa here.

2. Graduate Visa

Allows international graduates of UK universities to work for two years without employer sponsorship.
It is a great option if you’ve recently completed an electrical engineering degree in the UK.

You can learn more about the Graduate visa here.

3. Global Talent Visa

For highly skilled professionals in science and technology, including electrical engineering.
Requires endorsement from a recognised body like the Royal Academy of Engineering.

You can learn more about the Global Talent visa here.

Steps to Find an Electrical Engineering Job with Visa Sponsorship

1. Research Visa-Sponsoring Employers

Focus your search on employers licensed to sponsor visas. Large organisations in energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing, such as National Grid, Siemens, and Rolls-Royce, often sponsor international talent.

2. Leverage Specialised Job Portals

Use platforms like UK Visa Jobs and Engineering-specific job boards to filter for visa-sponsored opportunities in electrical engineering.

3. Tailor Your CV and Application

Create a UK-standard CV emphasising your technical skills, certifications, and achievements.
Highlight projects that align with the employer’s needs, e.g., “Developed a smart grid system that improved energy efficiency by 20%.”

You can learn more about how to write a UK-standard CV here and attend our webinars to enhance your CV writing skills.

4. Build Your Network

Attend industry events like Engineering Expo UK or Renewable Energy Conferences to meet potential employers.
Engage with professionals on LinkedIn to discover hidden job opportunities.

You can also learn more about how to build your network here.

5. Target Growing Sectors

The renewable energy sector, smart technology, and automation industries are particularly keen on hiring skilled electrical engineers.

Preparing for Interviews

Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss circuit design, power distribution systems, or troubleshooting methods.
Behavioural Questions: Highlight your problem-solving abilities and teamwork experience with specific examples.
Practical Tests: Some employers may ask you to solve technical problems or perform tasks during the interview.

You can learn more about how to prepare for interviews by joining our live webinars.

Additional Tips for Success

Upskill Regularly: Stay updated on industry advancements, particularly in renewable energy and IoT technologies.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Include hands-on projects, internships, or research that demonstrate your expertise.
Learn UK Standards: Familiarity with UK regulations and standards like BS 7671 can set you apart.

Resources at UK Visa Jobs

At UK Visa Jobs, we support international candidates in finding visa-sponsored roles in the UK. Here’s what we offer:

Job Listings: Access a curated list of electrical engineering jobs with visa sponsorship.
Webinars: Learn how to craft a standout UK CV or excel in interviews.
Career Guidance: Receive tips on navigating the UK engineering job market.

Summary

Finding an electrical engineering job with visa sponsorship in the UK in 2025 is an achievable goal with the right approach. You can unlock rewarding opportunities in this dynamic field by understanding the job market, honing your skills, and targeting visa-sponsoring employers.

Start your journey today with the help of UK Visa Jobs, and take the first step toward a successful career in the UK!