What does a Professional Engineer do?
Published 4 min read
A professional engineer is someone who is trained in engineering, which is the application of science and mathematics to solve problems in the real world. Professional engineers use their skills to design and build things like bridges, buildings, and other structures, as well as to develop new technologies and products.
Professional Engineer job duties include:
- Act as a technical advisor to clients, management, and other engineers
- Approve engineering drawings and documents
- Conduct feasibility studies and site investigations
- Develop and implement quality control programs
- Direct the work of technicians, technologists, and other engineers
- Identify problems and recommend solutions
- Inspect completed projects
- Investigate complaints from the public or companies about engineering projects
- Plan, design, and oversee construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, systems, and components
Professional Engineer Job Requirements
A Professional Engineer (PE) is an engineer who has been licensed by a state board of engineering examiners. A PE can supervise the work of other engineers and provide services directly to the public. The main requirements to become a PE are:
1) A four-year degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
2) A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
3) A minimum of four years of professional engineering experience.
4) A passing score on the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam in the specific engineering discipline in which the PE will practice.
Professional Engineer Skills
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Creativity
- Data Analysis
- Decision Making
- Detail Oriented
- Interpersonal Skills
- Leadership
- Management Skills
- Marketing Skills
- Organizational Skills
- Project Management
Related: Top Professional Engineer Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Professional Engineer
There are many ways to become a professional engineer. One way is to attend an accredited engineering school and obtain a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Alternatively, one could attend a two-year engineering program at a community college and then transfer to a four-year university. Finally, one could also obtain an engineering degree through an online program. Regardless of which path is taken, the first step to becoming a professional engineer is to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
The FE exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). It is a computer-based exam that is offered year-round at NCEES-approved testing centers. The exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions that cover a wide range of topics, including mathematics, statistics, dynamics, strength of materials, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, ethics, and professional practice.
After passing the FE exam, the next step is to obtain four years of relevant work experience. This can be done through paid employment or through participation in an approved internship or co-op program. Once the work experience requirement has been met, the final step is to pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
The PE exam is also administered by the NCEES and is offered twice per year at NCEES-approved testing centers. It is a computer-based exam that consists of 80 multiple-choice questions. The PE exam covers a wide range of topics, including engineering economics, statics, dynamics, strength of materials, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, ethics, and professional practice.
After passing the PE exam and completing all other requirements, one will be officially licensed as a professional engineer. Professional engineers are expected to adhere to high ethical standards and are held accountable for their actions. They are also expected to continuously update their skills and knowledge throughout their careers.
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