Best Engineer Careers List

Engineer Careers List

Engineering contains a large number of job opportunities and specialties. We’ve selected a list of specialties below. With each specialty, we look at the definition and nature of the work, the specialties employment trends, possibly career advancement opportunities and hope that it is helpful for you in determining the best engineering job career is right for you.

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineering is the study of the design, development, and production of air and spacecraft. This engineering discipline is often divided between those who pursue careers on the aeronautical side and those working on spacecraft. Both air and space vehicles contain complex subsystems that require specialists from many engineering groups such as electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering. 

Agricultural Engineer

Agricultural engineering is also known as biological engineering, and it covers subjects from aquaculture (raising food sources that thrive in water), to land farming and forestry. These engineers also develop biofuels, plan animal environments, and find better food processing methods. Often they work in offices, but they are also outdoors and traveling to worksites where they oversee equipment function in agricultural settings, and assure that government regulations are met. 

Automotive Engineer

Automotive engineering is one of the most exciting, challenging and rewarding careers. Whenever a customer drives a new vehicle off a dealership lot, he or she is taking with them the technical expertise of many engineers, but in particular, the automotive engineer. Automotive engineers research, design and develop vehicles and their subsystems. They work with sophisticated technologies to create products that thrill the senses and bring the freedom of mobility to the world.

Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical engineers work with a combination of biology, medicine and engineering. They are trained to analyze and design solutions that will improve patient care. They are the professionals behind sophisticated medical equipment like MRIs and microscopic surgical machines. Biomedical engineers are also responsible for research and development of medical innovations like artificial organs and prosthesis. 

Chemical Engineer

Chemical engineers utilize their knowledge of the physical world to manipulate the interactions of individual atoms and molecules. Their talents are generally employed in the research and development of new materials and are critical to numerous fields including nanotechnology, energy storage, and computing. Often working alongside other engineers in interdisciplinary teams to solve humanity's greatest problems, chemical engineers are guaranteed to remain key leaders in securing our future prosperity whether on this planet or any other. 

Civil Engineer

Civil engineers specialize in road, bridge, buildings and water supply system design and construction. They supervise and direct construction teams and work with other engineers. These professionals ensure that every structure built is environmentally compliant and can withstand earthquakes and hurricanes. This is especially true in places where these natural calamities often strike. 

Computer Engineer

Computer Engineers develop and improve the software programs and hardware that make computers run. Computer Engineers may specialize in either software or hardware. From operating system software, such as Windows and Linux, to individual computer programs, such as Photoshop and Microsoft Office, Software Engineers turn piles of hardware into fully functional computers. Hardware Engineers develop the hardware of computers, including the motherboards, graphics and audio cards and drives that are later programmed by Software Engineers.

Drafting and Design Engineer

Drafting and Design Engineering is an exciting career that allows the engineer to be involved in all stages of the design process, from conception to presentation of the finished plans. This career requires a working knowledge of drafting and design principles, material types and properties, and manufacturing processes.

Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers specialize in power supply and generation. They design, develop, test and supervise electrical equipment manufacturing. They have also been trained to handle responsibilities like wiring and lighting installations in buildings, automobiles and aircraft. What is great about being an electrical engineer is that the training is so extensive that graduates may land a job in many different industries such as construction, manufacturing and design. 

Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineers use science and engineering principles to protect and improve the environment. The quality of air, water, and soil is their primary focus. They seek solutions to water-borne diseases, wastewater management, and air pollution. They work to improve recycling, waste disposal, and industrial hygiene. They analyze soil and water samples. They understand the law as it applies to protecting the environment. 

Geological Engineer

Geological engineering involves geology,civil engineering, and fields such as mining, forestry and geography. These engineers apply earth sciences to human problems. Specialty areas include geotechnical site studies of rock and soil slope stability for projects; environmental studies and planning for construction sites; groundwater studies; hazard investigations; and finding fossil fuel and mineral deposits. 

Marine Engineer

Marine Engineers are responsible for the design and construction of seagoing vessels and structures, focusing primarily on their internal systems. Simply put, they design the onboard electrical, environmental and propulsion systems aboard everything from oil platforms to cruise ships. 

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineering is the study of motion, energy and force. The mechanical engineer seeks to control these elements by using a combination of material, human and economic resources to develop mechanical solutions that help satisfy the needs and wants of society. 

Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum engineers specialize in designing and developing technology and methods for digging the earth’s surface to extract oil and gas. They find means to obtain either natural gas or crude oil from the ground. In addition, petroleum engineers explore and discover new techniques to extract oil and gas from older wells all over the world. 

Software Engineer

Software engineers are specialists who are in charge of the testing, design, development and maintenance of computer software for business and personal use. They apply the principles of mathematics, engineering and computer science in creating managing software. These professionals are responsible for programming computers to make them operate as they should.

Electrical Engineer Careers

Electrical engineers specialize in power supply and generation. They design, develop, test and supervise electrical equipment manufacturing. They have also been trained to handle responsibilities like wiring and lighting installations in buildings, automobiles and aircraft.

What is great about being an electrical engineer is that the training is so extensive that graduates may land a job in many different industries such as construction, manufacturing and design.

Moreover, electrical engineers may take part in development and research as assistants to scientists and other engineers. Many kinds of electronic equipment from portable music players to GPS devices pass through an electronic engineer’s hands.

They come up with means to use electrical power to operate a certain product or improve its functions. Among the most challenging and in-demand tasks for electronic engineers today include developing construction plans for electrical lighting systems for skyscrapers, designing remote-controlled race cars and building technology for factories like robots that can perform welding.

Electrical Engineer Schools

A Day in the Life of an Electrical Engineer

Electronic engineers perform their duties in offices and laboratories but may also be sent to work sites for supervising and troubleshooting. This is especially true for those who work in companies that manufacture complex equipment. They spend about 40 hours per week at work, but they may work longer than this.

A typical day for an electrical engineer varies depending on their employer. Those who work for the federal government may handle responsibilities in areas of research, development and electronic device evaluation that may cover systems for manufacturing, transportation, aviation and communication. Electrical engineers use design software and equipment in their projects.

Becoming an Electrical Engineer

A bachelor’s degree is needed to become an electrical engineer. This is an area of specialty in the engineering field, and these degrees will prepare an individual for an entry level job. It is important to start studying for their chosen career as early as high school.

Aspiring electrical engineers have to take as much math and science coursework as possible including algebra, calculus and trigonometry. Drafting courses are also valuable. This is mainly because engineering students are usually required to do technical drawings. Bachelor’s degrees take four years to complete and include laboratory, classroom and field work.

Electrical engineers may have to obtain a master’s degree or other training certifications in order to qualify for research positions. There are five-year programs that offer both bachelor’s and master’s degrees together. They should pass the Fundamentals Engineering exam to obtain a license after the bachelor’s degree and Principles and Practice of Engineering exam after an internship.

Electronic Engineer Employment and Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were about 294,000 electronic engineers employed in 2010. About 14 percent worked for the federal government, 11 percent were employed with wired telecommunications carriers and electronic manufacturing firms and 8 percent held jobs in navigational, electromedical instruments manufacturing, architectural and engineering related services.

The BLS also reports that there will be slower than average growth for electrical engineers. There is only a 6 percent expected increase in the demands for these professionals from 2010 until 2020. This is mainly because of the decline in the manufacturing industry where they are mostly employed.

However, there are good projections for electrical engineers who work on an as-needed basis rather than those who are permanently employed. Similarly, there is a good future ahead for electrical engineers who specialize in research and development.

Typical Electrical Engineer Salary

In 2020, electrical engineers starting salary as much as $84,540 in median annual wages according to the BLS. The top 10 percent highest earners received about $128,610 while the bottom 10 percent earners took home about $54,030. Among the highest paying electrical engineer jobs in industries employing the largest number of these professionals come from semiconductor and electronic manufacturing companies.

Employees in these firms usually earn about $92,070 on average. This was followed by scientific research and development firms that paid $90,970 in median annual wages.

Electrical engineers with a master’s degree or doctoral degree typically receive higher salaries than those who only obtained a bachelor’s degree. Like any other engineering career, salary rates depend on the employer, location, years of experience and educational background.

 Highest Paying Jobs in Engineering

The field of engineering is expanding quickly. It requires skilled workers to apply principles-based in scientific, mathematical, technological, and social methodologies to design, develop, construct, and operate structures, devices, systems, and processes. Skilled engineers find numerous opportunities for rewarding employment in many industries.

Competition for engineering jobs can be quite competitive, and as with most careers, candidates who complete formal education, gain work experience and display skill are often preferred over individuals with less education, experience, and skill. Here are the Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs Engineering.

1. Petroleum Engineers

Petroleum Engineers are responsible for finding the most efficient and profitable means of extracting oil and gas from rock formations far below the earth. They design and develop ways to use water, chemicals, gases, and steam to force oil out of reserves, perform research, develop drill plans, and ensure proper maintenance and function of oil and gas extraction equipment. Petroleum Engineers also develop means of connecting oil and gas deposits to new or existing wells. Petroleum Engineers must complete bachelor's or master’s degree programs in petroleum engineering and also gain work experience before entering the field. Earnings for Petroleum Engineers range from $114,080 to $166,400 yearly.

2. Nuclear Engineers

Nuclear Engineers research nuclear energy and radiation for industrial and medical use. They design and create the processes, instrumentation, equipment, and systems that contain nuclear materials used in multiple industries, from spacecraft to medical imaging devices. They also maintain and monitor nuclear operations within facilities to ensure safety, identify violations of nuclear regulations and laws, give instructions regarding the handling and disposal of nuclear waste, and develop preventative measures for nuclear accidents. Nuclear Engineers also respond to plant shutdowns and other emergencies when they occur. Most Nuclear Engineers are required to possess a minimum of a bachelor degree combined with work experience to qualify for employment earning yearly salaries of $99,920 to $142,290.

3. Aerospace Engineers

Aerospace Engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, satellites, spacecraft, missiles, and other air or spacecraft products for the military, commercial, or private use. They research and determine the safety of proposed aircraft projects and parts. Aerospace Engineers also evaluate products to ensure they meet customer requirements, engineering specifications, and quality standards. Aerospace Engineers identify and develop solutions for malfunctioning or damaged aircraft, spacecraft, and parts. Aerospace Engineers may begin their careers within entry level positions upon earning a bachelor degree, though many employers prefer candidates with the combination of a degree and work experience. Salaries for Aerospace Engineers range from $97,480 to $143,360 yearly.

4. Software Engineers

Software Engineers blend computer science, mathematics, and engineering to design, develop, test, and maintain software or computer systems. They focus on user needs and write computer programs. Many work closely with teams of other computer science and engineering experts to secure, install, or develop advanced computer systems and software. Software Engineers also resolve any operational, security, or function issues with software, computer systems, and internal computer networks. Software Engineers generally must complete a minimum of a bachelor degree based in computer science, software, mathematics, or engineering as well as experience working with computer systems and applications. In addition, due to the constant changes within the industry, Software Engineers must continue education throughout the course of their careers. Software Engineers who qualify for employment often have annual earnings of $87,900 to $94,520 yearly.

5. Engineering Managers

Engineering Managers supervise teams of engineers within electrical, mechanical, civil, or industrial engineering fields. They administer, direct, and coordinate the research, design, financing, and development of products, hardware, equipment, and devices. They also oversee project design, manufacturing processes, productivity, and marketing analysis to lead projects for industrial, civil, and environmental products and services. Engineering Managers also create the specifications, proposals, budgets, and policies between engineering teams, clients, and contractors while adhering to regulatory laws and predicting the impact of the product. Individuals must complete studies within a bachelor or master’s degree program, gain work experience as an engineer, and obtain state licensing in order to qualify for employment as an Engineering Managers. They generally earn $91,180 to $141,730 annually.

6. Chemical Engineers

Chemical Engineers research, design, and troubleshoot the equipment and production processes for large scale manufacturing. They apply the engineering principles of physics, chemistry, and biology to develop, identify, and evaluate the safest and most efficient means of producing food, drugs, chemicals, fuel, and other materials. Chemical Engineers also research and determine the costs of manufacturing processes as well as the affects they have on the environment without compromising quality and safety. Chemical Engineers must complete studies within a bachelor level chemical or biomolecular engineering program and gain work experience before advancing to careers earning salaries of $90,300 to $139,670 yearly.

7. Electrical Engineers

Electrical Engineers devise new and improved electronics, components, and equipment. They also test and resolve problems with existing electronics. Electrical Engineers work with a large number of products and systems from lighting and wiring within structures to cars, robots, generators, and navigation systems to ensure performance and resolve issues. They also design and assemble new products, test products to ensure safety, and oversee the installation of components. Many create technical drawings and specifications indicating instructions and proper operation. Training to become an Electrical Engineer requires an associates or bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Earnings for Electrical Engineers range from $84,500 to $128,610 annually.

8. Biomedical Engineers

Biomedical Engineers focus upon improving the quality, efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of medical systems and products. They analyze, design, and resolve problems with biology and medicine. Biomedical Engineers create artificial organs, devices, and machines used to replace body parts and diagnose medical issues. They also conduct research to advance medicine, develop methods to assure product quality, and test drug therapies using computer simulations. Biomedical Engineers typically complete a bachelor or master’s degree in biomedical engineering in order to advance to positions earning salaries of $81,540 to $126,990 annually.

9. Materials Engineers

Materials engineers develop, design, process, and test materials to create new materials and products. Materials Engineers use metals, composites, semiconductors, plastics, and other substances which meet requirements based upon mechanical, chemical, and electrical standards. They also research, test, create, and evaluate the economic factors and standards involved in designing new products and developing materials processes. Additionally, Materials Engineers provide administrative and supervisory support by overseeing groups of technologists, scientists, technicians, and other engineers, providing proposals, completing reports, creating budgets, evaluating new projects, and preparing budgets. Most specialize in ceramic, composites, metallurgical, plastics, or semiconductor processing engineering fields. Materials Engineers often complete studies within bachelors or masters level materials science or materials engineering programs to qualify for employment. Earnings for most Materials Engineers range from $83,120 to $126,800 annually.

10. Environmental Engineers

Environmental Engineers apply and develop solutions to a number of environmental issues and problems by using the principles of engineering, biology, chemistry, and soil science. Environmental Engineers address global issues, like climate change, sustainability, and drinking water safety, as well as public health issues and means of controlling pollution. Environmental Engineers develop means of improving environmental protection, waste disposal, and recycling programs. They also create, evaluate, and update reports based on environmental investigations and environmental improvement programs. Environmental Engineers also oversee the standard operating procedures for legal plans, legal actions, environmental remediation programs, and permits. Additionally, they inspect industrial and municipal facilities to be certain environmental regulations and laws are followed as well as respond to hazardous waste and contaminated sites. Training to become an Environmental Engineer requires a bachelors degree based in environmental engineering and work experience. Some candidates may complete studies within a related field like civil, chemical, or mechanical engineering and gain additional on the job training. Environmental Engineers salaries range from $78,740 to $119,060 yearly.

Types of Engineering Careers

Engineering is excellent work for problem solvers and people who want to get things done. Almost every industry needs many types of engineering careers to apply their knowledge and skills. Here are some of the top ZipRecruiter engineering jobs.

1. Software Engineer

Software engineers design, build and maintain software systems for electronic devices. They use the principles of computer science, mathematics, and engineering to ensure the proper functioning of electronic equipment. Software engineers are the human brain of electronic devices. Software engineers recommend software upgrades to existing systems and present new options.

2. Network Engineer

Network engineers work with the IT support team to ensure maximum performance of a high traffic network infrastructure while maintaining system integrity, including computer, voice, and firewall systems. Network engineers should have an in-depth knowledge of networks with a focus on high-level design and planning. Strong customer service skills are necessary for this job.

3. Robotics Engineer

A robotics engineer is responsible for creating robotic systems and robots that are capable of performing tasks humans are unable to or elect not to do. This automation helps get processes and jobs done more safely, easily, and efficiently. Robotics engineers design and build robots from their plans, ensuring the correct processes are in place for the robot to run properly.

4. Civil Engineer

Civil engineers design and plan massive infrastructure projects, including roads and airports. They assess the feasibility of plans in regards to safety concerns and financial costs. They work directly with regional and urban planners. Civil engineers manage the design and implementation of the infrastructure for a project.

5. Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineering refers to one of the broadest areas in the engineering industry. These workers spend their time researching, designing, developing, building, testing, and inspecting mechanical devices. The devices a mechanical engineer works on may include engines, tools, thermal sensors, and large machinery apparatus.

6. Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing engineers play a key role in improving the quality and efficiency of goods produced in every industry. They need extensive knowledge of manufacturing production processes, primarily related to the creation and monitoring of automated systems, and new technology development. A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field is typically required.

7. Project Engineer

Project engineering is an excellent job for someone with engineering skills looking for a management position. Project engineers oversee all engineering and technical aspects of engineering projects in a company to assure the highest level of accuracy and quality. They prepare, schedule, coordinate, and monitor assigned engineering projects.

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8. Quality Engineer

Quality engineers improve existing procedures and processes within company systems and help build new quality controls, tests, and verifications. They should have sound experience in establishing and testing parameters, a history of participating in peer reviews and the ability to design and implement control systems for quality assurance.

9. Engineer

An engineer must thoroughly understand, designing, building, and maintaining all functional aspects of a system for their specific engineering industry. An engineer job description will relate all of the detailed tasks, responsibilities, skills, and education requirements that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job.

10. Chief Engineer

The chief engineer is the head of the engineering team or department in a company or on a project. They work on a wide range of projects that require an engineering team. The chief engineer is responsible for managing the engineering personnel, and the development and executions of engineering projects. Leadership skills, in addition to engineering experience, is required for this job.

Major Industries in the private sector to check out for lucrative pay include

Private Sector-

In the private sector, you can expect more income when compared to the government sector. In this sector, the institution from where you pursued you under graduation will hold a lot of importance along with your grades.

Campus Placement is the best-paid engineering jobs and the easiest way to bag a job at a top company.

As a fresher, you may join as an engineer or a trainee based on the requirement and skills you possess.

Major Industries in the private sector to check out for lucrative pay include:

1.chemical and pharmaceuticals industry

2.oil and gas industry

3.Automobile industry

4.power and energy industry

5.construction industry

A fresher can expect a salary in the following range-

1.IIT Mechanical engineer-30000INR to 60000INR per month

2.B.E/B.Tech Mechanical engineer-15000INR to 28000INR per month

3.Diploma Mechanical engineer-10000INR to 15000INR

Government Sector-

while a government job is considered safe and secure which is why many people opt for it, you should know that you couldn’t expect hefty pay even if you have graduated from the IIT.

A fresher can join as an assistant engineer or a junior engineer.

You can expect anything between 12000INR and 20000INR, to begin with.

The increment is quite slow and small.

Popular industries in the government sector that offers high salaries include:

1.State government(engineering division)

2.Indian Railways/Metro Rail

3.Indian Defensive Services

4.Government power and energy organizations

5.Public sector undertakings(PSU)

Top 10 Mechanical companies offering the highest salaries in India-

1. Siemens
2. Toshiba
3. Jacobs
4. GE Global Research
5. DuPont
6. Reliance Industries
7. Indian oil
8. Tata Motors
9. Emerson Climate Technologies
10. Larsen and Toubro

Electrical Engineering Entry Level Jobs

Electrical Engineering Entry Level Jobs

Electrical Engineering Entry Level Jobs that is…unappetizing. I worked for 3 years traveling with an oil exploration crew learning about the business before I was transferred into the office. Three years later, my design was getting patented.

Everyone needs to do for an Electrical Engineering Entry Level Jobs and I mean everyone starts at the bottom and has to work their way up. Get a job, no matter how bad it seems just to stay connected with the industry. I was out of work a while back for 18 months. I tried to get every job possible and there were too many applicants! …. but this is an excellent time for you thought you may not realize it.

Have you ever thought about going into business for yourself? Your young and can afford the time and you should have the energy and the drive. There are many things that you can probably do. See the list below and remember that each of these can be a career or just a resume enhancer for you.

1. Write a smartphone app and sell it for $1.00 profit. The app can be any silly nonsense of a game, Bluetooth advertising for people in a mall that walk by. You will get your name out in the world, it is an item that you can use to enhance your resume….and you might make some money in the process.
2. Some technical magazines are always looking for a good article. Write about something that you know about. Explore the topic in your work….this could be a “how-to” type of article or idea that you have been thinking about.
3. Teach an introductory class for adult education in a local community college in electronics, math or some other subject that you feel comfortable with.
4. Get you name out. If you can afford it, go to a conference and ask at the booths if they are hiring. Leave a resume for them.
5. Take some online classes to make you a better candidate. I just finished up a “nano-degree” in Data Science from Coursera.org. I am sure that you could finish it faster than I did and it is INEXPENSIVE. Data Science with a technical background could help you go far. Companies are looking for Data Scientists is what I have been told.
6. Stay in the business by joining a contracting company. You will get experience AND money. Once you get a couple of years experience behind you people will start searching you out.
7. Along the same lines as 5 and 6, get a certificate of accomplishment, as an example, get your CCNA, A+ or something from some company, Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, Program Manager….etc. I hear that Microsoft is teaming up with edX to get some Professional Certificates of accomplishment. Coursera and edX are cheap!

I know this can be frustrating. I have been there myself. Do not give up. A technical degree such as Electrical Engineering can take you on a far different path than you can imagine. Enjoy the ride!