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Engineering

Design Engineer

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Primary Secondary Post-16

A design engineer is responsible for developing new products and systems or improving existing ones, blending creative design skills with technical engineering knowledge. This role involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans, collaborating with other engineers and professionals, and often taking concepts from the initial idea through to manufacture. Design engineers work in a variety of industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and consumer products. The job requires problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and good communication skills. Many design engineers also need to keep up to date with new technologies and materials to ensure their designs are innovative and efficient.

Design Engineer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Design engineers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £50,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning up to £60,000 or more.

Job Opportunities

There are over 10,000 design engineering positions advertised each year across the UK, covering sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

Graduate Prospects

According to the Institute of Engineering and Technology, over 90 percent of engineering graduates find employment or further study within six months of graduation.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Focuses on designing mechanical systems and products, such as engines, machines or tools, using computer-aided design software.

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Product Design Engineer

Specialises in creating and developing new products, considering both function and appearance, often working closely with manufacturing teams.

Electrical Design Engineer

Works on designing electrical systems and equipment, such as circuits, control panels or lighting systems, often using specialist design software.

Build a Strong Foundation in STEM Subjects

Focus on Maths and Science at School

Achieve good grades in mathematics, physics, and related subjects during secondary education.

Design engineering relies heavily on mathematical and scientific principles. Choosing A-levels or equivalent qualifications in maths, physics, or design and technology will set a solid foundation for future studies. Consider also participating in STEM clubs or engineering competitions at school to gain practical experience.

Explore Technical and Creative Subjects

Consider taking courses in design technology, computing, or art to develop creative and technical skills.

Design engineers need both technical and creative thinking. Subjects like graphic design, computing, or art can help you develop problem-solving abilities, creativity, and experience with design software, all of which are valuable in this field.

Pursue Higher Education in Engineering

Complete a Relevant Degree or Apprenticeship

Apply for a degree in design engineering, mechanical engineering, product design, or a related field. Alternatively, consider a higher or degree apprenticeship.

Undergraduate degrees such as BEng or MEng in mechanical, design, or product engineering provide both theoretical and practical knowledge. Apprenticeships offer a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning, often leading to a recognised qualification and valuable work experience.

Develop CAD and Technical Skills

Learn to use computer-aided design (CAD) software and other engineering tools during your studies.

Proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or CATIA is essential for most design engineering roles. Use your time at university or during your apprenticeship to become comfortable with these tools, as well as understanding materials, manufacturing processes, and engineering standards.

Gain Industry Experience and Professional Accreditation

Secure Work Placements or Internships

Undertake work experience in engineering environments to apply your knowledge and develop professional skills.

Look for summer placements, internships, or year-in-industry opportunities with engineering firms. This hands-on experience is highly valued by employers and can help you build a professional network, understand industry challenges, and improve your employability.

Work Towards Chartered Status

After graduation, work towards professional registration such as Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) with an engineering institution.

Professional registration demonstrates your competence and commitment to high standards. It can improve your career prospects and earning potential. To achieve this, you will need to demonstrate experience in responsible roles, continued professional development, and a strong understanding of engineering principles.

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🎯 View Apprenticeships

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

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

A Design Engineer typically focuses on creating and developing new products or systems, which aligns closely with the role of a Design and Development Engineer. Both roles involve engineering principles, technical design, and innovation to produce functional and efficient solutions.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

University

You can take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree course. 

Subjects include:

  • engineering product design
  • industrial design
  • computer-aided design engineering
  • engineering design and manufacture
  • materials science
  • maths and physics

Mechanical, electrical and civil engineering qualifications might also be accepted by employers.

Courses accredited by the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) may help your career development later on.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths

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Apprenticeship

You might be able to apply for a Product Design and Development Engineer, or Robotics Engineer, Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

This can take around 4 and a half years to complete.

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 degree apprenticeship

More Information

Direct Application

You could apply directly for design and development engineer roles.

You'll need experience and qualifications in a particular branch of engineering, for example:

  • mechanical
  • aerospace
  • energy
  • automotive
  • manufacturing

More Information

Further information

You can find out more about engineering careers and training from the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) and Neon.

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