Careers in Engineering

Options for Those Who Want Careers in Engineering

If you want to have a career in engineering, you have two options from which to choose. You can be an engineer or an engineering technician. Each of these has different educational and licensing requirements, as well as different duties and salaries. See the chart below for a quick look at the differences between these two career choices.

Engineer

Engineers apply the theories and principles of science and mathematics in researching and developing solutions to technical problems. To become an engineer one must earn a bachelor's degree in engineering. Some jobs are available for those who have earned a bachelor's degree in physical science or mathematics. Engineers who offer their services directly to the public must be licensed. Median earnings for engineers ranged from $66,030 to $98,380 in 2006 depending on their specialty and educational degree earned.^*
Learn More About Becoming an Engineer

Engineering Technician

Engineering technicians often assist engineers and scientists, using science, engineering and mathematical principles to solve technical problems in research and development, manufacturing, sales, construction, inspection, and maintenance. The work of engineering technicians is more application oriented and more limited in scope than that of engineers. To become an engineering technician one must generally earn an associate degree in engineering technology. Certification, which is offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, is voluntary and involves a written exam, work experience, a supervisory evaluation and a recommendation. Median annual salaries for engineering technicians ranged from $40,560 to $53,300 in 2006 depending on one's specialty.^*
Learn More About Becoming an Engineering Technician

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, "Engineers," on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm, and "Engineering Technicians," on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos112.htm (visited August 5, 2008).

Comparing Careers in Engineering
	Education	License	Median Salary
Engineer	Bachelor's, Master's or Doctorate	Required for those who offer services directly to the public	$66,030 to $98,380 (depending on specialty and degree)
Engineering Technician	Associate Degree	Voluntary Certification	$40,560 to $53,300 (depending on specialty)