Engineering Consulting Careers
A consulting job is one career path within the diverse field of engineering. Engineering not only covers a variety of different specialties, but also focuses on different industries, including government, manufacturing and education. Similar to engineers employed by companies, consultants develop new products and scientific solutions for businesses. However, rather than work as a full-time employee, engineering consultants operate on a contractual basis.
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Function
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The tasks of engineering consultants vary based on industry and organization. However, an engineer's primary task is to design, develop and implement products and technologies that are used by consumers and businesses. A consulting engineer working for a technology company may work on troubleshooting computer systems, developing system requirements and testing products for quality assurance, safety and functionality. Other tasks include monitoring product performance and work flows, making recommendations based on research and putting together cost estimates and budgets for projects.
Education
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Engineering students typically pursue a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical or civil engineering. Math, life science and physical science courses are part of the curriculum in most engineering programs. Graduate programs in engineering are available, but not required for most entry-level positions, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Licensure as a professional engineer (PE) is required in the United States. Candidates must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to qualify as an engineer in training (EIT) or engineer intern (EI). A passing grade on the Principles of Engineering exam grants professionals full licensure as a PE (see Resources).
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Salary
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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the national average for engineering salaries ranged from $81,085 to $126,788 depending on industry and geographic location. A March 2011 SalaryExpert report stated that engineering consultants in Dallas averaged $135,079, versus workers in Atlanta who made $111,051. Engineering consultants in Indianapolis reported an average salary of $103,041. Moreover, consultants averaged $122,521 in Chicago, $116,591 in Orlando and $123,094 in Phoenix. Professionals in Houston made the highest average salary at $148,423.
Potential
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Employment prospects for engineering overall are expected to be positive over the 2008 to 2018 decade according to the BLS. Engineering jobs are expected increase by 11 percent due to the need for companies to improve the design and production process for their products. Additionally, the BLS projected that as different industries evolve, engineers will be hired to develop and implement technologies that support business processes. Engineers in consulting services, along with research and development, will experience the most employment growth. Competition from engineers working in countries at lower salaries than U.S. engineers will likely temper growth. Nevertheless, engineering graduates will be needed to replace current workers who move into management positions, retire or transfer occupations.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Woman engineer or architect with white safety hat, drawings and image by Andrei Merkulov from Fotolia.com
