Engineer: Design
The Work
Design engineers work on the design of new products ranging from domestic electrical appliances through to technical and professional products such as telecommunication systems. They can be involved in designing new products or structures, or coming up with improvements to existing ones.
When working on a design they take into account aspects such as strength, safety, reliability, efficiency, costs and the impact on the environment. To do this they employ knowledge of a variety of engineering subjects - many are qualified mechanical, electrical, electronics or civil engineers.
They may hold incorporated or chartered status.
Incorporated engineers specialise in developing and applying modern technology. They have a detailed knowledge and understanding of current engineering applications, and have the practical skills and knowledge to put plans into practice. They often hold key operational management roles.
Chartered engineers have greater theoretical engineering knowledge and can be involved in research and development or manufacture and installation. They are often project leaders and are responsible for teams of incorporated engineers and technicians.
Design engineers normally work in a team with other engineers and engineering technicians, who are often CAD draughtsmen / women. The team leader is usually an incorporated engineer or a chartered engineer.
Hours and Conditions
Design engineers usually work a 37- to 40-hour week, Monday to Friday. They may work extra hours to meet deadlines.
Engineers are normally based in a design or drawing office. Much of the work is computer-based involving the use of design software and computer-aided design (CAD) systems.
Design offices are usually open plan if in a modern office block, or may be located in a factory, or in a temporary office on a construction site.
Travel to clients' sites may be involved, so a driving licence is helpful.
Skills and Interests
To be a design engineer, you should:
Training
Graduate apprenticeships in engineering may be available for young people in England.
To qualify as an incorporated design engineer you should:
To qualify as a chartered design engineer you must:
Opportunities
There are engineering companies in most parts of the country.
Opportunities for design engineers exist in many industries including construction, construction engineering, building services, electronics, shipbuilding, aerospace, power generation, railways, electronics, and vehicle and consumer goods manufacture.
It may be possible to work on a consultancy basis, providing design services for clients.
Salary
The annual income section is intended as a guideline only.
New design engineers start at around £16,000 a year.
Experienced incorporated engineers are paid about £30,000 a year.
Salaries may rise to over £40,000 a year.
Further Information
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The Institution of Engineering Designers
www.ied.org.uk
The Engineering Careers Information Service
Tel: 0800 282167
www.enginuity.org.uk
The Institution of Incorporated Engineers
Tel: 020 7836 3357
www.iie.org.uk
The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining
Tel: 020 7451 7300
www.iom3.org
