Metallurgy engineer talking on phone in factory
Did you know that there are hundreds of careers for engineers that can be found in a variety of industries? You probably associate engineering with construction and transportation, but there are also many exciting careers like the ones below.
Automotive Engineer
Automotive engineers may be involved in the design, production or quality control of car manufacturing. For example, they may specialize in the production of specific car parts, such as tires, transmission or suspension. Some automotive engineers specialize in specific types of new cars, such as hybrids, electric and alternative fuel vehicles. Safety engineers create and implement product manufacturing guidelines and countermeasures to reduce defects. All of these engineers will use statistical data and industry specifications to ensure safety, quality and efficiency.
Marine Engineer
Marine engineers are similar to automotive engineers, but everything they do involves boats and ships. Most marine engineers do not work on the manufacturing side, but are employed as onboard crew members to maintain things like the engines, pumps, plumbing and electrical systems. Marine engineers spend a lot of their time doing inspections and preventive maintenance. They use maintenance management software to plan, track and perform their duties. If you aren’t interested in traveling the high seas, you might find work in ports, shipyards and even the military.
Food Engineer
Wouldn’t you want to work in a Willy Wonka candy factory? Unfortunately, the work of real food engineers tends to be more mundane and predictable. Food engineering involves various stages and processes. Those who work on the administrative side will spend their time ensuring compliance with food safety laws and quality assurance rules. They conduct tests, audits and investigations. These food engineers often adjust engineering controls and take on improvement projects. Some food engineers work on the production floor and spend their time maintaining and monitoring equipment, systems and processes.
Environmental Engineer
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), environmental engineering is only growing at about four percent a year. However, sustainability, green technology and eco-friendly construction are becoming more important every year. The fascinating subfield of environmental engineering involves a variety of specialized jobs, such as hydrology or geotechnical engineer. Some of the college classes they take may be in agroecology, geochemistry, soil mechanics and ecosystem processes. All construction companies and land development rely on environmental engineers and professional experts to prevent problems and reduce contamination.
If you really want a career that offers exciting opportunities with plenty of potential, consider becoming an engineer. This path offers a huge variety that can cater to your specific strengths. Ultimately, engineering can be a thrilling profession that makes a real difference in the world.