What Is an Assistant Engineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

An assistant engineer works alongside a senior engineer throughout a project. The job is often used to gain work experience by recent college graduates at the beginning of their career. Your duties vary, depending on the type of engineering and industry you work in, but may include managing equipment, performing inspections, reviewing blueprints, and coordinating among departments. Typical qualifications for an assistant engineer position include at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in an engineering field, strong communication skills, and the ability to carefully follow directions.

Education and skills are the primary qualifications you need to meet to become an assistant engineer. You can begin your education in high school with mathematics and science courses. Some schools also offer classes on CAD software, which is essential to this career path. In many cases, this can lead to certification in AutoCAD. Your postsecondary education should lead to a certificate from a vocational program or an associate degree. Whichever route you choose, your program must have ABET accreditation. Analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills are vital to the job. Observational and math skills are also essential.