I wonder if this would get more traction in the Wiring and the Regulations BS 7671 section?

I think there is a certain amount of general careers advice which could be valuable here.

Note, I am not an electrician, I definitely shouldn't be let loose too near a distribution box :) However, I started my career in testing and commissioning of electronic systems and worked my way across to the design side where I have mostly stayed. It was easy for me as i was working for a large company that did both design and test, so it was a case of getting a placement. I don't think this is the position you find yourself in.

However, there are a few things you can do. If you can identify companies and people that do the sort of work you are interested in, then you can do a bit of research (LinkedIn is useful here) and see what you can find out from those profiles.

What you may find that there are common qualifications that those people have. That might give you an idea of it there is further study you need to do.

However, just because you don't have a qualification, doesn't mean you can't get there. Most of the people I work with have engineering degree's, but not all of them. Those who don't often offer a useful viewpoint different from the rest of us.

The other thing I would add, given you do text and inspection, you are probably aware of all the design flaw that make it difficult to test and inspect. That can be a useful skill in its own right. I've know people who were taken into design teams because they came from manufacturing backgrounds and could make sure the design was easier to manufacture (which makes it cheaper to manufacture also).

So its a case of what educations and skills do you need to develop to get into design, but also what useful perspectives you can bring to the design process from your current viewpoint.

Good luck,

Mark

www.cityandguilds.com/.../2396-design-erection-and-verification

Hi Joe,

If you are already a competent electrical installation inspector, tester and verifier. One would presume that you already have an intimate knowledge of the BS7671 standard as amended, after all thats the function of the inspector/tester especially on new installations as you are cconfirming the "Design" and the "Installation" is actually appropriate for the circumstances of the actual project.

As Sparkingchip suggests the C&G 2396 course and qualification, would certainly be a great place to start. Also need to consider what type of installation/s you may wish to design, as obvioulsy designing a installation for a retail shop, totally diffrent from a factory etc.

I would start with the 2396.

Cheers GTB 

Thank you all. I will look further into the 2396. Watch this space for more questions if I go ahead with the course!

Hi Tom, I've come from a background not dissimilar to yourself. I'm a time served electrician and entered the Electrical Design field circa 2009 originally employed by Babcock. Much of your practical knowledge will be valuable in your design role as you'll be conscious of selection of circuit protection, adequacy of cable selection, selection of cable management etc.

GTB has already responded, but to reiterate, C&G2396 is a comprehensive design course. Under the course you'll be assigned with a project which will require you to complete the electrical design (small power layouts, calculations etc.). Example coursework(s) are available to access on the C&G Website.

If you haven't already, familiarise yourself with software such as Trimble (Amtech), AutoCAD and Relux / Dialux. The latter software is free to download.