Job Description
This job is part of our sustainability series: > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers
Design Engineers are involved in the research and development of new products and systems and improving the performance of the existing ones, this could be in a range of sectors such as construction, energy, IT, manufacturing or mechanical engineering.
Entry Requirements
You can get this job through:
Apprenticeship
You may be able to start by taking a product design and development engineer degree apprenticeship.
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.
Click here to search for an apprenticeship.
University
You'll normally need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree to become a design engineer.
You could choose from subjects like:
- engineering product design
- industrial design
- computer-aided design engineering
- engineering design and manufacture
- materials science
Mechanical, electrical and civil engineering qualifications may also be acceptable to employers.
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
Click here to search for a suitable course.
More information
You can get more details about engineering careers and training from the The Institution of Engineering Designers and Tomorrow's Engineers.
Career Path and Progression
You can work in industries from construction and engineering to electronics and renewable energy. You can progress your career by working towards incorporated or chartered engineer status and registering with an industry body.
Related careers you may be interested in:
- Aerospace engineer
- Aerospace engineering technician
- Materials engineer
- CAD technician
- Ergonomist
Required Skills
- Strong problem solving skills
- excellent communication skills
- a creative flair for new ideas and designs
- an awareness of the environmental impact of designs
- a good understanding of manufacturing and its processes
- good knowledge of CAD software
Salary Range
£20,000 to £55,000
