5 engineering jobs p1 - Military Transition - Military Times EDGE

Engineering graduates may have an easier time than other job-seekers this year. According to CareerBuilder.com, five of the top 10 in-demand jobs for 2008 grads are in chemical, electrical, mechanical, civil and computer software engineering.

Engineers need a bachelor’s degree and must pass a fundamentals-of-engineering exam. Then they must work in a supervised position three to five years and pass a principles-and-practice-of-engineering exam.

1. Electrical engineer

• Description: Designs, develops, tests and supervises the manufacturing of electrical equipment, which may include electric motors, lighting, automobiles and transmission devices used by electric utilities. These engineers typically focus on the generation and supply of power to a source. They also may work on control systems. Most specialize in power-systems engineering or electrical-equipment manufacturing. They should be problem-solvers and technologically inclined.

• Average starting pay: $53,300.

2. Chemical engineer

• Description: May work for drug companies or in life sciences. These engineers use chemicals to test methods of manufacturing products and treating byproducts. May help to produce energy, food, clothing, paper and medicines. Chemical engineers may use physics, math, and mechanical and electrical engineering. May specialize in a particular chemical process, such as oxidation, polymerization or nanomaterials. Should be aware of how chemicals can affect the environment, workers and consumers.

• Average starting pay: $59,000.

3. Civil engineer

• Description: Designs and supervises the construction of roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and water supply and sewage systems. Responsible for making sure the construction costs, deadlines and government regulations are met, as well as making sure potential damage from environmental hazards such as earthquakes and hurricanes is avoided. May serve as a supervisor. Also may work in design, construction, research or teaching.

• Average starting pay: $49,000.

4. Mechanical engineer

• Description: These engineers work on power-producing machinery, such as electric generators and gas turbines. Also may work on refrigeration equipment, escalators and robots. Duties include researching, designing, developing, manufacturing and testing tools, engines and other mechanical devices. May design tools for other engineering specialties. Should have good communication and mathematical skills.

• Average starting pay: $54,000.

5. Computer software engineer

• Description: Needs a combined degree in electrical engineering and computer science. May develop, test and evaluate computer software and systems from games to word processing. May work in embedded systems design, computer systems operations and systems support. Should be able to work alone as well as in a team.

• Average starting pay: $54,000.

(Originally published Sept. 1, 2008)