What does a design and development engineer do?
Design engineers research, design and test products in a variety of industries, ranging from electronics to synthetic textiles. They work on projects as diverse as the redesign of a mobile phone to the construction of motorcycle parts from carbon-fibre materials.
What do I need to do to become a design and development engineer?
You’ll need to be good at problem solving and generating new ideas. You will also need to be able to use computer-aided design software.
You would normally need a foundation degree, HNC/HND or degree to become a design engineer. Relevant subjects include engineering product design, industrial design and computer-aided design engineering.
You may also be able to get into this career starting off as an engineering technician apprentice with a manufacturer or engineering company and then continuing your training on a higher apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing engineering.
Where to find out more
Where could I be working?
You can find opportunities across many industries, including construction; electronics and consumer goods manufacturing; shipbuilding; aerospace; railways and motor vehicles, as well as power generation.