What Is an Engineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Engineers design, build, and maintain the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. Their specific job description relates to all of the detailed tasks, responsibilities, skills, and education requirements that a company or organization requires for their engineering specialty. For example, electrical engineers develop, monitor, and test electrical systems. Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Many engineers begin their career with an internship or apprenticeship while they are still in school, and then acquire an entry-level position. As they learn more about the industry, engineers are given their own projects and more responsibility.

To be considered for engineer positions, you need to earn a bachelor's degree in the engineering field you wish to pursue. Many engineers complete a master's degree or a doctorate to open up research jobs or positions in academia. Aspiring engineers need to earn their degrees from a college accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering (ABET). The specific major should focus on the field in which you wish to work. For example, to become a mechanical engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Professional certification is not required for most positions, but becoming certified may make increase your chances in the job market.

While each engineering field requires a unique set of job duties, there are some consistent duties and responsibilities for all engineering careers. All engineers must work to improve design and functionality to achieve more efficient and productive results in their projects. They perform research, test designs, and report their progress to superiors. If problems arise, the engineer works to design an effective solution. This could be mechanical, structural, chemical, or software related depending on the engineering field. Most engineers must also be proficient using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software to draft their designs.

Job Summary

We are currently seeking an experienced engineer to join our growing engineering department. As an engineer, you are a great listener and a skilled leader. In addition to producing specifications and designs, you will develop, manufacture, and install new components. You must have a demonstrated ability as a technically minded problem-solver, with strong numerical and scientific capability. The ability to focus on the task at hand, follow-through on the prescribed plan and the ability to be flexible and think under pressure are all key to this role. We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have a strong desire to learn and a team player attitude. The ideal candidate has experience in a large construction project environment with oversight responsibilities. Previous experience with AutoCAD and/or Civil3D preferred. BSCE or BSCET required; EI/EIT preferred.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Exercise creative thinking to devise new systems and innovative ways to work
• Understand complex mathematical analysis to design and troubleshoot
• Understand mechanical concepts and processes easily
• Use standard equipment and tools necessary for the role
• Work well with a team to develop systems for fixing problems or create solutions to get the job done
• Manage time, supplies, personnel, and budget

Requirements and Qualifications

• Must have a Bachelor of Science in electrical, mechanical, computer, or related engineering degree
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project)
• Due to control export regulations, this specific position requires US citizenship status
• BSCE or BSCET required
• Listening and communication skills; must be able to communicate plans, thoughts, and rationale to teammates
• Problem-solving skills, especially the ability to identify the source of the problem and create and test solutions