- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- design skills and knowledge
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day duties will include:
- assessing new developments or innovations
- preparing technical plans using computer-aided engineering and design software
- estimating manufacturing and labour costs, and project timescales
- co-ordinating the work of technicians and craftspeople
- testing prototypes and analysing data
- making sure projects meet safety regulations
- planning and overseeing inspection and maintenance
You could work in a workshop, in a laboratory, in a factory or in an office.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.
With incorporated or chartered engineer status you could:move into project management roles; specialise in research, such as telecommunications, robotics or semiconductors; work as an engineering consultant
You could also move into patent law.
You can find more details about careers and training from Electrical Careers and The Institution of Engineering and Technology.
