Engineering is a broad field encompassing so many areas of our daily existence. The reach and comprehensiveness of the profession have led to a great deal of misunderstanding of its scope and essence.
The guide below breaks down this colossal field into its basic elements. We explore the fundamentals of engineering and what the field entails and look at a few major specialty areas.
We also provide an overview of how to start an engineering career before exploring the possible salary figures to expect and the career projections.
What is Engineering?
Engineering is a field that leverages in-depth technical know-how of mathematical and scientific principles to design, develop, and build new products, structures, and systems for functional purposes.
Once the systems and products are actualized and functional, engineers are also called upon to maintain and enhance these products. The work of an engineer never ends, seeing as the field is driven fundamentally by innovation.
Newer, better systems continue to replace the old, and engineers always push the boundaries of what we deem possible.
Naturally, such a vast field includes various specialty areas. We explore some notable options below.
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is a field that deals with mechanical components and devices. Examples include engineering projects dealing with engines, renewable energy technologies, machinery, and HVAC systems.
Computer Engineering
Computer engineers work with computer hardware and software systems. Projects in computer engineering range from embedded systems and network engineering to computer architecture and software development.
Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical engineering involves applying engineering principles to medicine and biology. Projects include designing and developing medical devices, equipment, and diagnostic devices.
Civil Engineering
Civil engineers are concerned with public works and infrastructure projects. Examples are bridge building, roads, dams, airport construction, and water supply systems.
How to Become an Engineer
While each engineering specialty may have unique requirements, the following are some general considerations when starting an engineering career in any field.
Step 1: Education
Engineers typically need to acquire a Bachelor of Science degree before starting their careers. They may attend brick-and-mortar colleges or obtain degrees online. Usually, the classroom arrangements don’t matter as long as the program and the institution are accredited.
While a bachelor’s degree is usually the basic requirement for all engineering fields, some roles and specialty areas may require more advanced degrees.
Step 2: Specialization
Aspiring engineers are advised to choose a specialty area based on their passions and interests. This makes the journey much more exciting and the career more rewarding.
Candidates may also choose a specialty area based on job outlook and salary potential. In the section below, we explore key data concerning both criteria.
Step 3: Licensure
Engineers may be expected to participate in several professional exams to verify their skills and become licensed. For instance, a civil engineer may be expected to obtain an EI or ETI certification.
Engineers may also have to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination and, along the way, pass specific examinations in their disciplines, such as the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) examination.
Step 4: Practical Experience
Naturally, engineering is a very hands-on profession. Classroom training is important to become familiar with the fundamental principles, but ultimately, all engineers must become familiar with their real-world responsibilities by participating in actual engineering projects.
This may be possible through internships, co-op programs, joining clubs, and competitions. This will also help them develop critical teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Step 5: Continuing Education
After completing the above steps, candidates may proceed to secure entry-level employment. However, as engineering is an ever-evolving field, candidates must keep up with advancements through continuing education.
Step 6: Professional Networking
Engineers are advised to build a strong professional network to enjoy more career advancement opportunities. They may do so by joining engineering communities, attending industry events, and becoming members of professional organizations.
Engineering Salaries & Employment Outlook
The annual average for engineers in the United States ranges from $59,998 at the lowest end to around $152,696 at the highest end. Naturally, entry-level professionals just starting out will be more likely to start with the lower figure, while established professionals (“top-level engineers”) will earn up to $152,696.
Within the spectrum, “junior-level” engineers earn an annual average salary of around $76,722, and “mid-level” engineers earn an annual average salary of around $98,710. Compared, “senior-level” engineers earn an average annual salary of around $126,523.
Sorting by location, the District of Columbia boasts the highest annual salary for engineers in the country, around $119,227. Also among the top five are California, with an annual average salary of $115,393; Alaska, with another average salary of $115,586; Maryland, with an annual average salary of $111,585; and Delaware, with an annual average salary of $107,513.
Other notable mentions include New York, with another average salary of $97,891; New Hampshire, with an annual average salary of $96,976; and Minnesota, with an annual average salary of $96,960.
Employment Outlook
According to a projection by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are to be 139,300 jobs added to several engineering fields in the period from 2016 to 2026. The Bureau breaks down the projection thus:
- Civil engineers are to increase by 32,300 with a median annual wage of $83,540.
- Mechanical engineers are to increase by 25,300 with a median annual wage of $84,190.
- Industrial engineers will increase by 25,100 with a median annual wage of $84,310.
- Electrical engineers will increase by 16,200 with a median annual wage of $94,210.
- Electronics engineers will increase by 5,100 with a median annual wage of $99,210.
- Petroleum engineers will increase by 5,100 with a median annual wage of $128,230.
Other notable mentions are aerospace engineers, who are to increase by 4,200 with a median annual wage of $109,650; computer hardware engineers, who are to increase by 4,000 with a median annual wage of $115,080; and marine engineers, who are to increase by 1,000 with a median annual wage of $93,350
