Instrumentation engineers design control systems for consumer products, machines and vehicles. A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics or mathematics is required, along with on-the-job training and success in professional engineering exams. Internships and entry-level work are recommended, and practical skills and computer knowledge are emphasized when applying for a job. After gaining experience and passing professional exams, engineers can lead original projects and earn good salaries. Some may start their own consulting companies or become private manufacturers of instrumentation equipment.
Instrumentation engineers design complex control systems for various consumer products, robotic instruments, vehicles and industrial machines. They have specialized knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering principles, as well as modern computer design programs and physical construction techniques. A person who wants to become an instrumentation engineer in most situations needs to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. In addition, on-the-job training and success in professional engineering exams is required to establish a career in the field.
A four-year bachelor’s degree program in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics or mathematics can be very beneficial for a person looking to find work as an instrumentation engineer. Most future professionals opt for mechanical engineering programs, but the relevant techniques and information can be learned in the other courses as well. Students often enroll in a variety of advanced science and math courses to study the principles of electricity, chemistry, and magnetism. An undergraduate student can also take classes in writing, project design, and computer science to build practical skills.
A college student who wants to become an instrumentation engineer can look for internship opportunities at local factories and research and development companies. Entry-level work as an assistant or junior engineer provides important hands-on experience in the field and can significantly improve a person’s chances of finding a position after earning their degree. Close to graduation, a student can take the first of two exams written by a professional engineer and begin applying for a full-time job.
When applying to become an instrumentation engineer, a person must emphasize his practical skills and computer knowledge. Employers often like to hire new engineers who are able to quickly master several unique software applications and work well with other members of the engineering team. Once a person is offered a job, he can expect to spend between six months and four years working under supervision. Continuous experience allows a new engineer to assume more responsibility and independence in their work.
The second professional engineer exam can usually be taken after gaining four to five years of experience. Success in the test means that a worker can officially become an instrumentation engineer and earn the right to start leading original projects. Professionals who work for several years in the field and build a strong reputation are usually rewarded with very good salaries and opportunities for advancement. Some engineers end up starting their own consulting companies or becoming competing private manufacturers of instrumentation equipment.
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