Careers in Engineering Consulting
A consulting engineer might find themselves using their expertise to develop products with a company or perhaps using their education to aid in the discovery of new materials used in space flight. How and when the engineer hires out to a company or government project depends upon what the individual chooses to do with their degree. There are numerous firms that hire engineers for the express purpose of providing consultants.
Careers in Engineering Consulting
In an economy where the vast majorities of corporations are downsizing, there are still ample opportunities for engineers who are between jobs or are waiting for the right job to come along. Many companies employee engineers full time or part time, but there are decent wages to be had in consulting regardless of project duration.
Companies that Hire Engineering Consulting
One of the largest fields for engineer consulting work is the space industry with companies such as Barrios, Aurora Technology, Corona Space and CPS Japan. These companies seek to hire engineers with experience in telecommunications, research and development, satellites, surveillance, among others. Other companies are hiring for construction engineers with expertise in soil testing and construction materials, while others need environmental engineers. There are even companies looking for specialist in biochemical engineering and marine engineering.
Qualifications and Requirements
Most of these companies are looking for engineers who have a bachelors of science and have had 5 to 10 years experience in the specific field of interest. In the field of technology, there are many telecommunication jobs. In other fields of engineering, such as research and environmental consulting, there can be extensive travel involved. While some jobs guarantee permanent employment, others may be a few months in duration. The engineering consulting field offers a variety of choices for many classifications.
Pay Rates for Engineering Consulting
The amount that an individual will make depends upon the type of consultation; however, starting pay will be on average $69,000, while those with a good deal of experience can make as much as $148,000 annually. Of course, pay will vary with the duration of a job and the education level, or the particular agreement the company or corporation makes with an individual.