With the numerous disciplines in the field of engineering, it can be difficult to decide where to focus your attention when searching for a career. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of engineering careers available, so you can make an informed decision about which one best fits your skills and interests.
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Each type of engineering has its own set of responsibilities, specializations, and required skills. The most common types of engineering careers can be divided into five broad categories:
- Mechanical engineering
- Civil engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Chemical engineering
- Computer engineering
Within each of these broad categories, there are sub-categories and specialized fields. For example, within mechanical engineering, there are sub-categories such as automotive engineering, aerospace engineering, and biomedical engineering. And within electrical engineering, there are specialized fields such as power engineering, signal processing, and telecommunications.
The type of engineer you become will depend on your interests, skill set, and the specific needs of the industry or field you choose to enter. To help you better understand the different types of engineering jobs that are available to you, we’ve put together a brief overview of each category below.
- Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineering is the field of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and science of aircraft and spacecraft. Aerospace engineering is a highly specialized field that requires a strong background in mathematics and physics.
Aerospace engineers typically work on one of two types of projects: designing new aircraft or spacecraft, or working on improving existing designs. They may also be involved in testing and evaluating prototypes to ensure they meet safety and performance standards.
Aerospace engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field such as mechanical engineering. Many aerospace engineers also have a master’s degree or doctorate in aerospace engineering.
- Architectural Engineer
An architectural engineer is someone who applies engineering principles to the design, construction, and operation of buildings and other structures. This can include working on the design of new buildings, overseeing the construction process, and ensuring that the finished product meets all safety and performance standards.
Architectural engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering. Some also hold professional licenses, such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers use their engineering skills to solve problems in the medical and biological fields. They work on developing new medical devices and treatments, as well as improving existing ones. Biomedical engineers often work closely with doctors and other medical professionals to ensure that their designs meet the needs of patients and are safe for use.
- Chemical Engineer
A chemical engineer is someone who uses their knowledge of chemistry to solve problems in the engineering field. They may work in a variety of industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, or cosmetics. Chemical engineers must have a strong understanding of chemical reactions and processes. They use this knowledge to design and oversee the production of chemicals, drugs, and other products.
- Civil Engineer
As a civil engineer, you will be responsible for the design and construction of public works projects such as bridges, roads, dams, and sewers. You will need to have a strong understanding of mathematics and physics. In addition to your engineering skills, you will also need to be able to communicate effectively with clients and other members of the project team.
- Computer Hardware Engineer
A computer hardware engineer designs, develops and tests computer systems and components. They may work on new or existing technologies, ranging from microprocessors to circuit boards.
Computer hardware engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree or higher. Computer hardware engineers typically work in research and development or design and development departments in companies that manufacture computers or electronic components.
- Electrical Engineer
An electrical engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and supervising the production of electrical equipment. They may work in a variety of industries, including power generation, transmission, distribution, manufacturing, construction and transportation.
Electrical engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Some employers may require a master’s degree or doctorate. Electrical engineers must be licensed in most states.
- Environmental Engineer
An environmental engineer is someone who works to protect the environment and human health. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, private companies, or nonprofits. Environmental engineers often have a background in science or engineering.
Most environmental engineers have a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field. Some environmental engineers go on to earn a master’s degree or doctorate.
Environmental engineers typically work office hours, but they may travel to sites to conduct inspections or investigations.
- Industrial Engineer
An industrial engineer is someone who designs, develops, and creates systems to improve the efficiency of a company. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and more.
Industrial engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Some common courses that they take include manufacturing processes, quality control, statistics, and project management. Industrial engineers need to be able to use math and science to solve problems. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with other people in order to design systems that meet the needs of their company.
- Materials Scientist
A materials scientist is someone who studies the properties of materials and works to develop new or improved materials. Materials science is a relatively new field, and as such, there are many different subfields within it. Some common areas of focus for materials scientists include nanomaterials, biomaterials, metallurgy, and ceramics.
Materials scientists typically have a background in physics or chemistry, and many have a PhD. As the field of materials science is constantly evolving, materials scientists must be able to keep up with the latest research in order to innovate and create new materials.
- Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing, building, and testing mechanical devices, such as engines and tools. They often work in manufacturing or automotive industries.
A typical day for a mechanical engineer may include meeting with clients to discuss project requirements, conducting research to find the best solution to a problem, and designing and testing prototypes of new products.
Mechanical engineers need at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Many also choose to pursue advanced degrees or certification in specialized areas of mechanical engineering.
- Mining and Geological Engineers
Mining and geological engineers are responsible for the safe extraction of minerals and metals from the earth. They work with a team of other engineers and technicians to develop mines and quarries and to design and implement mining operations. In addition to their engineering duties, mining and geological engineers often serve as project managers, overseeing the construction and operation of mines.
Mining and geological engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, although some positions may require a master’s degree or higher. Most states require licensure for engineers who offer their services to the public. Licensure requires passing two exams, one covering engineering fundamentals and one specific to mining and geological engineering.
- Nuclear Engineers
Nuclear engineers design, construct and maintain nuclear reactors, power plants and other facilities. They also develop new nuclear technologies and find ways to dispose of nuclear waste. Nuclear engineering is a highly specialized field, and most nuclear engineers have a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering or a related field.
- Petroleum Engineers
A petroleum engineer is someone who works with the extraction of crude oil and natural gas. They often work in the oil and gas industry, but can also be found in other industries such as mining and chemical engineering.
Petroleum engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, although some jobs may require a master’s degree or higher. Petroleum engineers must be able to work with complex equipment and systems, as well as have strong problem-solving skills.
With a skills shortage in many countries, engineering jobs in South Africa are in high demand. There is something for everyone who has an interest in engineering. Whether you choose to specialize or take on a broader scope of expertise, exploring each type can help you better understand which option will be the best fit for your skillset and career goals. With 14 different types of engineering jobs, this list can serve as a great starting point in helping you make an informed decision about pursuing such a rewarding profession.