When it comes to getting a job as an engineer, though, the first thing you need to do is determine that you have what it takes. First of all, choose your field of specialization, such as environmental engineering. In most cases, you're going to get a bachelor's degree in engineering, sometimes in your field of specialization and sometimes more general. In some cases, you can get your bachelor's degree in natural sciences or mathematics and still specialized for some engineering jobs, especially in those areas that need engineers. The more popular specializations in the field of engineering are civil, mechanical, electronic, or electrical engineering.
In some cases, you may be trained in one branch but work in another. For example, you may have trained in mechanical engineering but become an aerospace engineer because of the demand in that field. Because basic engineering skills to some extent are interchangeable, employers may find it perfectly acceptable to hire an engineer with a degree in one area to work in another but related area. Therefore, when it comes to your job search, you'll want to be flexible in the areas you apply for work in. You may very well find that you have the skills necessary to work in a field related to (but not a perfect match with) your degree, even though that's not something you would have considered in the first place.
In addition, some fields have better job prospects than others, so if you graduate and find that your particular area of specialization has an influx of new engineers but another related field is hurting for engineers, of course it makes sense to shift your engineering job search to the field that needs engineers.
Education and background
In most cases, you're going to get a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field (including mathematics in some cases), and then you may specialize with your focus on engineering jobs at the master's level. Getting a graduate degree is especially important if you want to teach or do research. You may also want to go for further education by getting a master's in business administration or something similar so that you have the options open for government or executive positions later on.
Preparing for your education
If you decide to pursue an undergraduate in engineering, you'll need a strong background in mathematics, including advanced mathematics like calculus, trigonometry, geometry, and algebra. You'll also need a good solid background in science like physics, chemistry, and analogy. The humanities, English, and social studies are also usually part of engineering programs at the bachelor's level.
Once you graduate
Once you graduate, finding your first job can be a bit daunting, but not to worry. Your school can help you find positions, and you can also search the Internet for jobsites, many of which list innumerable engineering jobs in a variety of specialties.
Licensing
In addition to your education, you have to be licensed as a professional engineer if you work with the public. First, though, you'll need to have four years of relevant work experience and you'll also need to have passed a state exam, in addition to your degree. If you have just graduated with an undergraduate degree, you can usually begin the licensing process by taking the first part of the examination, Fundamentals of Engineering. This makes you an "engineer in training." Once you've gotten your four years of job experience, you can take the second part of the exam, Principles and Practice of Engineering. Most states have also made it mandatory for engineers to continue their education in order to be relicensed. Many states do recognize other states' licenses, assuming that the license gotten is valid and that licensing requirements of that state meet their own. Usually engineers who specialize in chemical, electrical, and civil engineering are especially licensed in this way.
Other skills necessary
In addition to the previously mentioned engineering skills, as an engineer you'll be required to be able to work well with people and to communicate clearly both orally and in written format. Most engineering jobs involve working as a part of a team, so you'll need these skills in order to get the job done right and make the work environment as pleasant as possible. You'll also need to be very detail oriented.
Compensation
Compensation for engineers varies depending on the area of specialization, level of education and licensure, and whether the engineer works for the government or for private industry. But in general, engineers made approximately between $75,000 and $108,000 as of 2007, across all specialties.
