Designers in the engineering industry cover a wide range of jobs, from building and construction to textiles, manufacturing and electronics, aerospace and automobile production. The job usually involves researching and developing new products and improving the efficiency and performance of products already in existence.
The work involves researching new developments and if viable, turning these into technical plans which could then become prototypes. The designs are then likely to go through several stages of being modified and retested. Necessary qualities for this branch of engineering are an ability to solve problems and be creative in finding solutions. Proficiency with CAD software, the ability to work in a team and an excellent understanding of design and engineering principles are also requirements
Entry involves further education in subjects such as computer-aided design, industrial design, product design and engineering design. Further training is usually given on the job. There are plenty of opportunities for advancing to become a consultant design engineer, a strategic planner or a project manager. Salaries start at between £22,000 and £25,000 per year, with senior engineers earning around £50,000 per year.