- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- persistence and determination
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- thinking and reasoning skills
- the ability to work on your own
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Your day-to-day duties would depend on the project, but could include:
- research (using mathematical modelling to work through new developments and innovations)
- design (turning research ideas into technical plans for prototypes using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-assisted engineering (CAE) software)
- testing (collecting and analysing data from prototype testing)
- modifying designs (ahead of manufacture or installation)
- reporting (writing or presenting to project managers and clients)
You could work in an office.
You can work in industries from construction and engineering to electronics and renewable energy. You can progress your career by working towards incorporated or chartered engineer status and registering with an industry body.
You can get more details about engineering careers and training from the The Institution of Engineering Designers and Tomorrow's Engineers.
