The Ultimate Guide on How to Become a Design Engineer
The engineering industry is vast and diverse. Moreover, it also demands strong expertise in conceptual and visualization with an artistic ability to land the perfect job in an extremely competitive market.
If you’re someone with a keen interest in creative design and possess technical knowledge, choosing a career in design engineering might be the right choice.
This article is a step-by-step guide describing how you can become a design engineer. We’ve provided here the necessary qualifications and skills needed to gain a competitive edge over others in this field.
What is a design engineer?
Design engineers are artists who design and create visual products and processes with the help of statistical techniques.
Design engineers commonly have a mathematical and scientific background with strong command in drawing and sketching. They also possess a creative ability to develop various products and systems, ranging from hand-drawn sketches to advanced 3D art.
As a design engineer, you’ll be included in the conceptualization, design, and development of projects ranging from construction to software machinery. Design engineers research, find, and create ideas for new products. They are also proficient in improving existing products.
Different types of design engineers
A design engineer is a broad term. The role of a design engineer varies depending on which specialty you choose. However, you’ll have to employ technical expertise and creative skills no matter which specialty you choose to design and create new systems in.
Some common types of design engineers are:
- Chemical Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Civil Engineer
Qualification to become a design engineer
A design engineer uses Computer-Aided Software (CAD) to design and develop product designs and processes. If you have a strong knowledge of computer programs and an extensive background in technical education, you may consider becoming a design engineer.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a design engineer, one must complete a bachelor’s degree in design engineering or another similar discipline, such as mechanical, chemical, software, or civil engineering. Such training will teach you to learn and understand complex design studies used in designing products and projects.
During the degree, you’ll learn different aspects of machine design, such as thermodynamics, 3D dimensions, and CAD software applications.
Special training
As a design engineer, you must be open to learning and using new tools and software. Some standard tools that every design engineer should know how to use are Revit, InfraWorks, and Civil 3D.
Moreover, to gain a competitive edge over other candidates, strong knowledge and know-how of CAD are also helpful.
Many undergraduate studies include internship programs and training opportunities where one can gain hands-on experience in different areas of design engineering. These areas are product design, software development, electrical systems, chemical composition, and mechanical structures.
Training programs are great, as they help you identify which area suits your expertise and knowledge the best. For instance, if you have the ability to turn a simple product design into a 3D product package, then enrolling in internship programs focused on 3D learning could work to your advantage.
Unique portfolio
Once you acquire hands-on professional experience, you’re ready to build your portfolio. A professional degree in design engineering prepares you for a rewarding career in manufacturing, advertising, commercial, architecture, and other industries. However, a strong portfolio positions you on a successful path in a competitive market.
Building a stellar portfolio showcases your skills and expertise as a design engineer. Create an online portfolio and add a collection of your best works that represent your ability to design, visualize, and strategize.
Obtain professional certification
Students who pursue academic and professional development in design engineering must choose a specific focus. Various certification programs prepare design engineers to demonstrate their skills. The four most important and rewarding certification options include the following.
AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a computer-aided design software designed by Autodesk. This certification allows you to advance your drawing and editing skills for digital designs. Three-level courses are available in this certification; AutoCAD Certified User, AutoCAD Certified Professional, and AutoCAD Civil 3D Certified Professional.
This certification can prepare a beginner design engineer to enter the job market in construction, engineering, and architecture. Moreover, you’ll have more command in commercial documenting, layout management, dimensional layer, and much more.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) provides professional certificate programs to develop a better understanding of the safety standards of design products. The certification is great for those who wish to start a career in nuclear physics, chemical engineering, manufacturing, and welding. There are two courses to choose from in ASME certification, CAEM and CPEM.
Certified Associate in Engineering Management (CAEM)
This certification program sets a solid foundation for design engineers. The abbreviation of CAEM stands for Certified Associate in Engineering Management.
It provides professional expertise and strong knowledge to those interested in IT. One of the biggest benefits of being CAEM certified is the ability for project management.
Certified Professional in Engineering Management (CPEM)
Basic and solid knowledge in the field of design and engineering is important for every engineer. The CPEM certification includes preparing an engineer to plan, organize, allocate, and control activities in technological processes.
This certification recognizes and validates the skills of design professionals in the management and development of technical operations.
Skills development as a design engineer
Design engineers primarily work in architecture, product development, and manufacturing. The design engineer is a professional who considers the necessary aspects of product development, including safety, visual appeal, affordability, and accessibility.
Individuals with a design engineering degree understand the basic principles of design and how it relates to the statistical aspects of engineering. Below are some necessary hard and soft skills every design engineer should possess:
- Advanced drawing skills
- Product-focused conceptualization
- Knowledge about design principles
- Proficient in CAD software
- Attention to detail
- Project management
- Creativity
Final verdict
If you’re creative and passionate about statistical techniques, dimensional art, and conceptualization, a degree in design engineering can be a good choice. Designing and engineering are rewarding industries with many opportunities for growth.
Moreover, several factors can determine the successful employment of design engineers, including education, experience, portfolio, and technical ability.
