Engineering
Engineering is the practice of using science and mathematics to develop inventive solutions to everyday problems. In engineering programs, students study a variety of scientific concepts, computer technology, mathematic principles, and practical design theories. They also learn about problem analysis, research techniques, prototype building, and laboratory testing. Bachelor's degrees in engineering vary according to concentrations; however, many of these awarded degrees are in a specific engineering discipline like civil, mechanical, chemical, industrial, or electrical. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, general employment within the field of engineering is projected to increase 11 percent by 2018.
Common Career Paths:
Engineer
Engineers examine technical problems and develop solutions that are economical and appropriate for consumer needs. They design and develop new products using computers to create and analyze designs, generate specifications, monitor product quality, and control process efficiency. They also are involved in production where they supervise factory processes, test products for quality assurance, and identify the causes of failed components. Job responsibilities often vary depending on the area of engineering one choose to specialize in, such as chemical, civil, computer, electrical, industrial, or mechanical. Regardless of specialty, duties tend to revolve around problem-solving, research, design, production, manufacturing, and testing. Engineers tend to work closely with scientists, technicians, managers, and other engineers in work environments like offices, laboratories, industrial plants, and construction and production sites.
Engineers must have at least a bachelor's degree in engineering preferably one within a particular specialty. These types of programs consist of relevant courses like scientific visualization, engineering law, chemistry, physics, numerical methods, construction methodology and procedures, processes of industry, computer-aided design and quality control. Many courses also depend on one's area of interests such as fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, environmental microbiology, materials science, and mechanical design. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of engineers is expected to grow by 11 percent by 2018, particularly in biomedical, civil, environmental, and petroleum engineering. In May 2008 the median annual salaries of engineers ranged from $68,730 to $108,020.
Engineering Technician
Engineering technicians use engineering principles to find solutions to technical problems within research and development. They often assist with research where they perform duties such as setting up equipment, conducting experiments, calculating data, and recording results. Some technicians work in quality control inspecting products and evaluating processes, while others work in manufacturing and help design and produce products. Job responsibilities often vary depending on the area of engineering technicians choose to specialize in, most commonly electronic, industrial, mechanical, civil, and aerospace. These types of technicians often work closely with engineers, scientists, and other technicians in work environments like offices, laboratories, and manufacturing or industrial plants.
Engineering technicians are usually required to have an associate or bachelor's degree in engineering technology, as well as a concentration in specialized area of engineering. These types of programs consist of relevant courses like quality control technology, automated manufacturing technology, construction methodology and procedures, processes of industry, strength of materials, structural systems, and computer-aided design. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of these types of technicians is projected to increase by 5 percent by 2018, although job opportunities will vary according to engineering specialty. Engineering specialties that are expected to have the best opportunities for technicians include civil, environmental, and industrial. PayScale reports that in the United States the annual salary of engineering technicians ranges from $39,053 to $75,327 depending on years of experience.
Engineering Manager
Engineering managers plan and coordinate engineering activities concerning research, design, and production. They are responsible for identifying technical goals within an organization, developing project plans, and supervising staff including scientists, engineers, and technicians. Job duties are typically related to the staff assignments, project budget proposals, identification of technical problems, supervision of activities, and establishment of administrative procedures. These types of managers often work with other managers in the financial, marketing, and production departments, as well as various contractors and suppliers in order to obtain equipment and supplies. Much of an engineering managers work day is spent in an office, although it is not uncommon for them to also be found in research laboratories or industrial plants.
Engineering managers are usually required to have at least a bachelor's degree in a specialized area of engineering, and it is preferable that they have taken courses that focus on management. These types of programs consist of relevant courses like principles of project management, product design and development, quality control, processes of industry, industrial supervision, engineering economy, and construction methodology and procedures. Many positions also require managers to have some education or professional experience in the field of business. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of these types of managers is projected to increase by 8 percent by 2018, with the most job opportunities within growing fields of engineering such as environmental and biomedical. In May 2008 the median annual salary for engineering managers was $115,270.
