This occupation is part of the Architecture and Engineering cluster
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About the Job
Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.
It is also Called
- Automation Engineer
- Automotive Sheet Metal Engineer
- Ceramic Design Engineer
- Ceramic Engineer
- Ceramic Research Engineer
- Ceramics Test Engineer
- Corrosion Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Extractive Metallurgist
- Failure Analysis Technician
What They Do
- Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.
- Write for technical magazines, journals, and trade association publications.
- Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
- Plan and implement laboratory operations for the purpose of developing material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.
- Review new product plans and make recommendations for material selection based on design objectives, such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.
- Guide technical staff engaged in developing materials for specific uses in projected products or devices.
- Replicate the characteristics of materials and their components with computers.
- Supervise the work of technologists, technicians, and other engineers and scientists.
- Modify properties of metal alloys, using thermal and mechanical treatments.
- Conduct training sessions on new material products, applications, or manufacturing methods for customers and their employees.
Interests
People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: IRE.
This means people who work in this occupation generally have Investigative interests, but also prefer Realistic and Enterprising environments.
Work Values
People who work in this occupation generally prize Support, but also value Working Conditions and Independence in their jobs.
Things They Need to Know
- Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
- Chemistry - Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
- Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- Physics - Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
- Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Things They Need to Be Able to Do
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
- Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Education Required
Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Wages
In 2012, the average annual wage in California was $98,380.00 with most people making between $62,250.00 and $144,920.00
Outlook
During 2010, this occupation employed approximately 2,900 people in California. It is projected that there will be 3,400 employed in 2020.
This occupation will have about 60 openings due to growth and about 80 replacement openings for approximately 140 total annual openings.
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