The types of engineering jobs the student is interested in determining what type of specialization to choose. Different types of engineering degrees at the master’s level also include electrical engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, and industrial engineering. At the graduate level, mechanical engineering is the second most popular degree choice for those who want a career in the field.

Many students choose to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Each year, over 30,000 mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees are conferred—more than double the second most popular, electrical engineering. Mechanical engineering is a popular field for prospective engineers due to the flexible job opportunities. Mechanical engineering at the graduate level prepares students to use science and mathematics to solve real-world problems. Although a mechanical engineering degree prepares the graduate for a job as a mechanical engineer, he or she is qualified for other types of engineering careers.

Engineering with a specialization in computer science is the most sought-after master’s degree. Mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, aerospace engineering, and geological engineering are all available options for those looking to secure a master’s level or higher degree.    

What Types of Engineering are There?

Although there are sub-specialties within each engineering field, there are a few main types of engineering careers. Different types of engineering include:

• Aerospace Engineer
• Biomedical Engineer
• Chemical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer 
• Environmental Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Petroleum/Mining/Geological Engineer

Each type of engineering job will involve working in a specific industry. As an example, aerospace engineers are involved in developing and building machines used to explore the air and space. Aerospace engineers are responsible for technologies such as satellites, spacecraft, missiles, and rockets. 

Engineers in the field of agriculture will develop processes to improve crops. 

Mining engineers study and develop ways to extract minerals from the earth. 

The different types of jobs in engineering will depend on what field was studied during college. Education level will also impact job options. For advanced positions, like in the field of nuclear engineering, a doctoral degree is typically a pre-requisite.

Engineering careers could involve working at various sites depending on the applicant’s background. Engineers work for petroleum companies, mining firms, government agencies, power plants, computer companies, software and hardware developers, biomedical manufacturers, industrial manufacturers, chemical companies, and countless others.    

What are the Different Types of Engineer Jobs?

Different types of jobs in engineering include aerospace engineer, mechanical engineer, biomedical engineer, civil engineer, electrical engineer, environmental engineer, petroleum engineer, mining engineer, chemical engineer, and geological engineer. Although these are typical job titles, there are other types of engineering jobs a degree holder can obtain.

A researcher is a typical job title for an engineer who works in the field of manufacturing. The researcher reviews different equipment pieces to provide an expert opinion on their usefulness.

Consultants work on a per diem basis and are hired by companies to provide a similar service as a researcher. A consultant can review industry the safety and efficiency of equipment being used by companies. Automotive, aerospace, industrial, and agricultural are a few areas where consultants may work.

An architect is another type of position available to engineers. As an example, civil engineering involves the study, planning, and building of structures such as roadways, buildings, and bridges. A naval architect is a position for those with a background in mechanical engineering and who will go on to design and build watercraft.

A project manager is a job title used within different industries to describe an engineer heading up different projects. Less experienced engineers may have a job title as project assistant and will assist on designs and making system improvements.

What Types of Engineering Careers Pay the Highest Salaries?

Different types of engineer jobs offer a range of salaries. Engineering salaries typically can fall between $50,000 and $170,000. The more advanced positions pay the highest rate. The most lucrative job types within engineering belong to the field of chemical engineering, computer engineering, nuclear engineering, and aerospace engineering. The top 10 percent of earners in these fields have salaries in excess of $130,000 per year. The mean annual salary for jobs within these industries is between $80.000 and $95,000. 

Entry-level positions are lucrative for any type of engineering job including mechanical engineering, agricultural engineering, electrical engineering, and petroleum engineering. At a minimum, engineers start out making a minimum of $50,000 per year, but salary packages usually start at $65,000 or more. Top paying states for engineers are California, Texas, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Delaware.  

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