Job Family: Engineering

Engineers are involved in research and development, design and production. They work on the machinery, products and systems used in everyday life - from cars to hospital scanners, from computers to drilling rigs and from alternative energy to telecommunications.

There are various branches of engineering, including:

• aerospace engineering - aircraft and space technology
• automotive engineering - vehicles and their systems
• chemical and materials engineering - converting natural resources to products ranging from cosmetics to foods
• electrical, electronics, telecommunications and power engineering - including computer systems, communication networks and nuclear power
• production engineering - systems in factories, including automated and computer-controlled machines
• marine engineering and shipbuilding - ships, offshore platforms, other marine structures and the equipment installed on them
• mechanical engineering - designing components, machines and systems that involve the conversion and use of mechanical energy
• oil and gas engineering - exploration and production
• renewable energy engineering - the production of energy through natural resources such as wind, solar and wave power and the production of bio-fuel sourced from crops.

People work in engineering at all levels, ranging from operators, craftspeople and technicians to professional engineers involved in research and design.

Working hours depend on the job, but are usually around 38 hours a week. Depending on the nature of the work, shift work may be required. Jobs may be indoors, in an office, workshop or factory, or outdoors.

There are opportunities with industrial and manufacturing companies, in specialist engineering workshops, with utilities (such as gas and electricity companies) and in design and development companies.

Around 1.5 million people, men and women, work in engineering-related jobs in the UK and the sector is currently undergoing a massive transformation as it comes to terms with changes in the global economy and some of the low cost advantages available in developing countries. However engineering and engineering design is central to all developing and advancing technologies and people with the right skills will always be in demand.

Engineering today is closely linked with technology and many roles rely on the most recent technological advances. Most jobs require people who like maths and science, enjoy finding solutions to challenging problems, are practical and good communicators.

Entry is possible through a number of different routes. Engineering can be taken as a subject in school or college such as the Diploma in engineering. This can provide the first step towards college/university entrance or lead to an engineering or manufacturing apprenticeship. Maths and science are also important subjects, especially for those wanting to train to become technicians or professional engineers. Apprenticeships can lead to craft and technician jobs.

Any of these routes can lead to one of three nationally (and internationally) recognised professional levels: Engineering Technician (Eng Tech), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Chartered Engineer (CEng). Each of these levels can be achieved by various routes of study - going to university to study an engineering course is just one of the many options available.

Why not have a look at other career family articles as they may hold information on related jobs.

March 2010