ADD ADVICE TO FAVConsulting engineer
What consulting engineers do
- work on engineering projects for clients, sometimes internationally
- define clients’ needs and translate them into designs for novel facilities, equipment or systems
- supervise subcontractors who provide specialist assistance for parts of the project
- organise the project logistics including purchasing and supply chain management
- liaise with others involved, including architects, local authorities and manufacturers.
Key skills
- strong academic ability and relevant technical knowledge
- excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- creativity and ingenuity
- verbal communication skills to liaise with clients and others, and supervise staff when required
- commercial awareness to consider financial viability of solutions.
Training to be a consulting engineer
Most leading firms of international engineering consultants provide excellent training, usually starting with design and developing towards project management. Trainee consulting engineers typically work towards a professional qualification to gain international recognition.
Salaries
Starting salaries are usually in the range of £20,000 to £25,000 but may vary considerably if you are working abroad.
Professional bodies
Engineers of all disciplines can become consulting engineers and usually join the relevant professional body. The Association for Consultancy and Engineering is also useful.
