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Engineer

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Engineers are professionals who use science, mathematics, and creativity to solve problems and design solutions that improve the world around us. In the UK, engineering covers many fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and software engineering. Engineers might design bridges, develop new medical devices, improve energy systems, or create the latest technology. The work often involves teamwork, using computers and models, and sometimes hands-on building or testing. Engineering is important for making sure we have safe buildings, reliable transport, clean energy, and new inventions. It is a career that suits people who enjoy maths, science, and finding out how things work.

Engineer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Engineers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £55,000 per year, depending on experience and field.

Job Opportunities

There are over 700,000 people employed as engineers and technicians across the UK.

Future Demand

The UK needs around 124,000 engineers and technicians with core engineering skills each year up to 2030.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers design and build machines, engines, and tools, working on things like cars, aeroplanes, and manufacturing equipment.

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Civil Engineer

Civil engineers plan and create structures such as bridges, roads, and buildings, making sure they are safe and efficient.

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Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers work with electrical systems, designing and maintaining things like power stations, circuits, and electronic devices.

Discover Engineering

Learn About Types of Engineering

Explore the different branches of engineering to see which one interests you.

Engineering includes many fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and software engineering. Each has different job roles and specialisations. Reading, watching videos, and speaking to teachers can help you learn more about what each type involves. This will help you decide which area might suit you best.

Get Inspired by Real Engineers

Look for stories, interviews, or documentaries about engineers and their work.

You can find lots of resources online, in libraries, and at school. Hearing from real engineers will give you a better sense of what the day to day job is like and what kind of projects you could work on. Schools may also have visits or talks from engineers that you can attend.

Build Your Skills

Focus on Maths and Science

Work hard in maths and science at school, as these subjects are important for engineering.

Good grades in maths, physics, and sometimes chemistry are usually needed for further study in engineering. Try to get involved in extra activities like STEM clubs, coding workshops, or science fairs to build your skills and show your interest.

Take Part in Engineering Activities

Join clubs or competitions related to engineering, such as robotics or design challenges.

Extracurricular activities will help you develop problem solving skills, teamwork, and creativity, all of which are important for engineers. You can also look for work experience opportunities or taster days at local engineering companies to get a feel for the job.

Choose Your Pathway

Pick the Right Qualifications

Decide whether you want to do A-levels, T-levels, or an apprenticeship in engineering.

After GCSEs, you can choose to study A-levels (usually including maths and physics), T-levels in engineering or manufacturing, or start an engineering apprenticeship. Your choice depends on your interests, learning style, and career goals. Apprenticeships allow you to work and study at the same time, while A-levels and T-levels prepare you for university or higher apprenticeships.

Apply for Higher Education or Apprenticeships

After college or sixth form, apply to university for an engineering degree or find a higher apprenticeship.

Most engineers in the UK have a degree in engineering, but you can also train through higher or degree apprenticeships. University gives you in-depth knowledge and offers work placements, while apprenticeships let you earn and learn on the job. Both routes are respected by employers.

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🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Engineer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

Both 'Engineer' and 'Aerospace engineer' require a strong background in engineering principles, mathematics, and technical problem-solving skills. They typically involve designing, developing, and maintaining complex systems, making them closely aligned in terms of qualifications and professional expertise.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

University

You could do a degree in aerospace engineering, avionics, or a subject like:

  • electrical or electronic engineering
  • mechanical engineering
  • manufacturing or product engineering
  • physics or applied physics
  • software engineering or mathematics

Postgraduate study

You may be able to do a master's degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering if you've studied for a degree in a related subject, such as engineering.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

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College

You could do A levels, a higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) in engineering before applying for a trainee technician job with an aerospace company.

Subjects include:

  • maths, physics and design and technology
  • mechanical engineering
  • aeronautical engineering
  • electrical engineering

You would then take further training to become a fully qualified engineer.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

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Apprenticeship

You could do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship to begin your career in the aerospace industry. Apprenticeships include:

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Aerospace Software Engineer
  • Electro-Mechanical Engineer
  • Materials Science Technologist

You'll combine workplace learning with study for a degree at university.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

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Work

You might be able to join a company as an aerospace engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.

Direct Application

You can apply for aerospace engineering jobs if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, you might have worked in mechanical, electrical or electronics engineering.

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Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Royal Aeronautical Society for professional development, career resources and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about working in aerospace engineering from Careers in Aerospace.

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