- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
- knowledge of physics
- analytical thinking skills
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- thinking and reasoning skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day duties could include:
- researching new ways to combine materials
- analysing test data, using computer modelling software
- developing prototypes for new products
- designing manufacturing processes that use new materials
- investigating the reasons behind component or structural failures
- supervising a team of technicians
- writing reports
You could work at a manufacturing plant, in a laboratory or in an office.
With experience, you could move into project management or technical sales. You could also specialise in a particular material, or work in research and consultancy.
You can find out more about careers in materials engineering from the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
