How to Become a Pipeline Engineer

Pipeline engineers help develop massive lines of gas and oil pipes to help fuel entire communities. These engineers have to bring an interdisciplinary approach to their work, because it involves engineering, construction and civil planning. Your journey toward a pipeline engineering position requires patience and a desire for comprehensive knowledge.

Things You'll Need

• Internship (optional)
• Bachelor's degree
• List of contractors
• State certification

Instructions

1. Seek a bachelor's degree in engineering to begin your career as a pipeline engineer. This degree path will take 4 years, and will help you become proficient in the design, budgeting and implementation of pipeline projects.

2. Gain familiarity with the predominant design software used by engineering firms for pipeline design. Your university and your first employer provide you with basic software, but you should seek proficiency in alternative software titles to broaden your skills. A good way to find out about the latest design software is to review trade publications that offer demo links.

3. Open yourself up to new opportunities in pipeline engineering by staying flexible about work-related travel. Pipeline engineers must head out to job sites on a regular basis to assess progress of pipe fitting and structural construction around those pipes. You should become comfortable with traveling at least 25 percent of your early career to stay competitive.

4. Obtain employment with a construction company during your summer breaks from college. Several months of work on a commercial construction site will show you the hard work and diligence that is used with every engineering project.

5. Work with your academic adviser to land an internship with a local engineering firm during your final year of school. A pipeline engineering internship allows you to see all stages of creating a pipeline while you are still learning basic engineering principles. These positions also offer a good reference and a potential employer after graduation.

6. Start a habit of meeting with laborers and foremen on your pipeline projects. These meetings allow you to gauge construction issues with a pipeline and evaluate the construction site in person.

7. Compile a list of contractors and regional companies as you become a pipeline engineer. The contacts you establish early in your career can be utilized to save money and create a quality pipeline for future employers.

Tips & Warnings

• Pursue multiple state certifications during your early work as a pipeline engineer. You need to become familiar with state engineering regulations in your region in order to complete work for your employer. These certifications should also be seen as a demonstration of your range of work for future employers.