What are the Different Types of Engineering Careers?

Engineering is a broad field of study that uses mathematics, science, and economic concepts for the design and innovation of products, materials, and processes. There are many different types of engineering careers that can be found in a variety of fields, including farming, aircraft, and computers. The main types of engineering careers are found in mechanical, civil, electrical, agricultural, biomedical, and chemical engineering.

Mechanical engineers develop anything that uses a machine or mechanical system. Engines, heating and cooling units, medical devices, and power plants are all designed by mechanical engineers. This type of engineering job requires the person to have knowledge of force and motion to create a mechanical product that is efficient, safe, and reliable.

Civil engineering careers are usually in areas of construction and public works. This type of engineer analyzes and creates plans for the building of roadways, waterways, airports, and bridges. A civil engineer may also plan and construct sewer systems, railroads, and tunnels. Subdisciplines of civil engineering include earthquake engineering, environmental engineering, and materials engineering.

An electrical engineer works with electricity, power sources, and electromagnetism to provide energy to buildings, machines, and other products. Electrical engineers must have knowledge of circuit theory, physics, computer programming, thermal dynamics, and mechanics. Jobs in telecommunications, computer systems, and alternative energy are just a few of the industries that hire electrical engineers.

Engineering careers exists in the farming and production of agricultural products. Agricultural engineering combines concepts from electrical, chemical, and civil engineering with knowledge of biology and animal science to create processes and products that assist farmers and livestock owners. A job in this field of engineering may find a person designing equipment, creating crop production processes, or creating biorenewable food products. Agricultural engineering job growth has been the strongest of the engineering career fields.

Biomedical engineering jobs employ people who are skilled in applying engineering principles to medical procedures, pharmaceuticals, or therapy. Some engineers in this field create artificial tissue or organs, medications, or medical devices, such as magnetic resonance imagining (MRI) units. Other engineers research genetics or create instruments for use during a surgical procedure.

Computer engineers work to design hardware, computer components, and software. This type of engineering combines concepts from electrical engineering and computer science to design operating systems, processors, and circuit boards. Professionals must have a technical knowledge of hardware and software along with a strong base knowledge of math, science, and digital and electrical systems.