- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- design skills and knowledge
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of physics
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Your duties could include:
- turning research ideas into technical plans, using computer aided design/modelling (CAD/CAM)
- carrying out surveys of mechanical systems and equipment
- researching and assessing new products and innovations
- presenting design plans and data to managers and clients
- producing other technical documents
- supporting the contract team when bidding for new work
- overseeing maintenance programmes and quality control
- managing and leading a project team of technicians, designers and other engineering professionals
You could work at a client's business, in an office or in a factory.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers.
You could work for local and central government, the armed services, manufacturers in all industries, research and development facilities and public utilities.
With incorporated or chartered engineer status you could move into project management roles, specialise in a particular field, work in research or become an engineering consultant.
You can find out more about how to become an engineer through the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and Tomorrow's Engineers.
