Professional engineers lead and work on projects and processes that apply engineering principles and data to safeguard people and property. Professional engineers:
- evaluate, plan, design, supervise, and consult on the construction and operation of a wide range of structures and systems. This includes utilities; houses and office buildings; roads and bridges; machines and equipment; and much more.
- work in a variety of fields, from chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering to subfields stretching from aerospace and agriculture to software, textiles, and telecommunications.
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: depends on discipline and years of experience
Salary range: $45,000 (entry) - $175,000 (30+ years experience, non-supervisor)
Projected growth: average to much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Private practice
Government
Manufacturing
Research facilities
Military
Colleges and universities
Your Interests and Abilities
Mathematics
Preparation in the sciences
Analysis and design
Technical writing
Professional Skills
Attention to detail
Analytical thinking
Problem solving
Communication
Management
Education and Experience
“Credits” toward an engineering license are based on the type of education and experience you have. You will need 12 credits of combined education and experience for licensure. Your experience requirement will depend on the units granted for your education; at least 4 years of engineering work experience will be required. Visit the Office of the Professions for a listing of all options and requirements.
Qualifying education toward an engineering license can be earned with a Baccalaureate degree at an accredited institution in Engineering or Engineering Technology. An ABET accredited Bachelors degree in Engineering requires 4 years of approved professional experience to qualify for the licensure exam, while an Engineering Technology Bachelors degree requires 6 years of approved professional experience to qualify for the same exam
Examination
Two-Part Professional Examination:
1) Fundamentals Examination (typically during or immediately after college)
2) Principles and Practice Examination (typically after 4-6 years of professional experience)
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a professional engineer about what they do and how they got started!
