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About the engineering industry

Engineering offers a fast moving and competitive industry with opportunities to learn new skills. It could be working with new technology or using maths, science and communication skills to solve problems in design development. There are many areas to choose from, with careers in:

• mechanical engineering
• aerospace
• marine engineering
• tool making
• electronics
• design and production

Large companies can be really sociable, while some small companies offer an interesting mix of work. You could also get a job like a mobile service engineer, managing your own jobs.

Jobs in the engineering industry

Engineering doesn’t just offer opportunities relating to cars and aircraft. There are a growing number of roles involved in developing products, which can be used in medicine. This could include equipment to help doctors and surgeons with the early diagnosis of disease.

Apprenticeships are a great way to get started, and could help you on the way to becoming an engineering craft machinist, a welder or a sheet metal worker.

With the right qualifications such as a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you could become a marine or aerospace engineering maintenance technician.

There are a lot of competitive companies in the UK. Many of these employers need people to operate machinery and technicians to manage projects.

Advantages of working in the engineering industry

There are many advantages to working in engineering including:

• excellent opportunities for both men and women - many employers are encouraging more women to apply for engineering jobs
• varied working conditions - on site discussing design with construction contractors or in an office or factory
• good prospects - apprenticeships are a great way to get started
  

Real-life examples

Nadia Khan, Electrical Technician

I got my big break as an apprentice. I now work for a food manufacturing company. I have to solve problems and repair faults in the equipment. I have started my NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Maintenance, which will help my chances of getting promoted. I earn £18,500.

Ron Evans, Bridge Engineer

I work on projects that involve the strengthening, maintenance and replacement of bridges. From design work to talking to construction contractors - I really enjoy the variety. I passed my Chartered Engineering qualification recently, which I have been able to finish while working in this role. At the moment I earn £27,000.

Find a job in this sector

Find out more about training and careers in the engineering industry by visiting the websites below:

• The Institution of Engineering and Technology Opens new window

• Royal Aeronautical Society Opens new window

• Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology Opens new window

• Institution of Mechanical Engineers Opens new window

• The Institute of Physics Opens new window

More useful information

For more information on working in this sector and gaining the skills you need, talk to a Jobcentre Plus adviser by calling 0845 606 0234.

They can also tell you what help and support is available to you to help you into work.

• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office Opens new window

• Help and advice when applying for a job