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- Design engineers take ideas for products and objects and help make them a reality
- Technical, mathematical and computer aided design (CAD) skills are essential
- Highly valuable skills with application across a range of industries and sectors
As a design engineer, you can work in a variety of industries, from electronics to synthetic textiles, on projects as diverse as the redesign of consumer products like mobile phones to the construction of motorcycle parts.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
Your day-to-day work would depend on the project, but could include:
- Research - using mathematical modelling to work through new developments and innovations
- Design - turning research ideas into technical plans for prototypes using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-assisted engineering (CAE) software), testing (collecting and analysing data from prototype testing), modifying designs (ahead of manufacture or installation), and reporting (writing or presenting to project managers and clients)
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You can work in industries from construction and engineering to electronics and renewable energy. You could work in an office or in a workshop.
You'll need
This role would be ideal for someone with excellent knowledge of computer assisted design (CAD) software, knowledge of engineering, construction, design and materials, business skills, and environmental design skills.
You'll usually need a foundation degree, a HND or a degree in a subject like engineering, product design, industrial design, computer aided design engineering, engineering design and manufacture or materials science.
Mechanical, electrical and civil engineering qualifications may also be acceptable to employers.
You may also be able to start by taking a product design and development engineer degree apprenticeship.
CAREER PROSPECTS
You can progress your career by working towards incorporated or chartered engineer status and registering with an industry body.