Jobs for Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Graduates

A practical engineering qualification

The Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering trains technicians in electrical installation, power systems, electronics, instrumentation and telecommunications, usually over three years at national polytechnics and technical institutes. Options often include power, telecommunications or instrumentation. Technicians at this level install, test, maintain and repair electrical systems across buildings, factories and networks.

Licences and registration

Two registrations matter. The Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board (KETRB) registers engineering technologists and technicians. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) licenses electrical workers, issuing licences in classes that set what installation work you may carry out and certify, depending on your qualifications and experience. Many electrical job adverts specifically ask for an EPRA licence, so apply as soon as you qualify.

Typical jobs

• Electrical technician in factories, hospitals, hotels and commercial buildings
• Solar installation and maintenance technician with energy companies
• Telecoms and fibre technician for network operators and contractors
• Instrumentation and control technician in processing plants
• Power line and substation technician with utilities and their contractors

Entry requirements

Public TVET places are applied for through KUCCPS, usually requiring a KCSE mean grade of C- (minus) with passes in Mathematics and Physics. Holders of a craft certificate in electrical installation can progress to the diploma.

Getting hired

Employers want technicians who can work safely and independently. Experience with fault-finding, motor control, PLCs, solar systems or fibre splicing is valuable, depending on the sector. A logbook from industrial attachment, an EPRA licence, and a driving licence are often the difference between candidates. Fibre and solar companies hire regularly and often train people with a good electrical foundation.

Progression

Technicians progress to senior technician, supervisor and maintenance or electrical foreman roles, and can apply for higher EPRA licence classes as they gain experience. Many later study for a BTech or BSc in electrical engineering, which leads to graduate engineer registration with the Engineers Board of Kenya.