Overview
The engineering sector is one of the largest and most diverse industries in the UK, covering mechanical, civil, electrical, aerospace, and chemical engineering. Engineers play a crucial role in shaping the world around us, from designing buildings and infrastructure to developing advanced technologies and sustainable solutions.
With over 5.4 million people employed in engineering roles and an annual demand for 182,000 new engineers, the sector offers strong career prospects. The UK is home to global engineering firms such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Siemens, Arup, and Jaguar Land Rover, providing opportunities across a range of industries, including defence, aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing.
Key areas in engineering include:
- Civil & Structural Engineering – Designing bridges, roads, tunnels, and buildings.
- Mechanical & Electrical Engineering – Developing machinery, power systems, and automation.
- Aerospace & Automotive Engineering – Designing and manufacturing aircraft, cars, and space technology.
- Chemical & Process Engineering – Working in pharmaceuticals, oil & gas, and food production.
- Renewable Energy & Sustainability – Focusing on solar, wind, and sustainable materials.
The sector is rapidly evolving, with emerging fields such as AI-driven automation, robotics, and green energy solutions creating new career opportunities for graduates.
Average Engineering Graduate Salary
Engineering Graduate Career Path
There are several career paths in engineering, depending on your skills and interests:
- Civil & Structural Engineering – Designing and constructing infrastructure, buildings, and transport systems.
- Mechanical & Electrical Engineering – Working on engines, power systems, robotics, and automation.
- Aerospace & Automotive Engineering – Designing aircraft, satellites, and high-performance vehicles.
- Chemical & Process Engineering – Developing manufacturing processes, fuels, and pharmaceuticals.
- Renewable Energy & Environmental Engineering – Creating sustainable energy solutions and smart grids.
Major Employers:
- Engineering firms – Siemens, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Arup, Mott MacDonald.
- Aerospace & Automotive – Airbus, Boeing, Jaguar Land Rover, McLaren, Tesla.
- Energy & Utilities – National Grid, Shell, BP, EDF Energy.
- Construction & Infrastructure – Atkins, Laing O’Rourke, Balfour Beatty.
Graduates typically start as engineering trainees, design engineers, or project assistants, gaining hands-on experience through structured graduate programs. Many companies offer on-the-job training and professional development to help engineers achieve chartered status (CEng).
Career progression can lead to technical specialist roles, project management positions, or leadership roles in innovation and strategy.
What to Expect in an Engineering Career
- Hands-on Technical Work – Involves designing, testing, and maintaining engineering solutions.
- Fast-Paced Problem-Solving – Engineers tackle complex challenges daily, requiring creativity and analytical skills.
- Structured Career Progression – Many roles lead to Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.
- Opportunities for Travel – Global projects and international career paths are common in automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors.
Qualifications and Skills Needed
What proportion of candidates as a percent we place into Engineering graduate careers and the typical qualities graduate employers look for.
GRB Placements for Engineering by Degree
Typical Candidate Attributes
Careers in engineering typically require a STEM-related degree. Preferred degrees include:
- Civil, Mechanical & Electrical Engineering – Key for construction, aerospace, and manufacturing roles.
- Chemical & Process Engineering – Ideal for oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, and material science.
- Computer Science & AI – Increasingly important in robotics, automation, and smart technology.
- Environmental & Energy Engineering – Growing demand in sustainability and renewable energy.
Typical entry requirements:
- 2:1 degree or higher for most graduate schemes.
- Accredited engineering degrees (approved by IET, IMechE, ICE, etc.) help towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) certification.
- Work placements or internships are highly valued by employers.
Essential Skills for an Engineering Career
- Strong Problem-Solving Skills – Engineers must identify and solve technical challenges efficiently.
- Mathematical & Analytical Thinking – Required for designing models, calculations, and testing processes.
- Communication & Teamwork – Engineering projects involve collaborating with designers, managers, and technicians.
- Project Management & Leadership – Managing budgets, timelines, and risk assessments.
- Innovation & Adaptability – Keeping up with new technologies, sustainability trends, and industry regulations.
Many employers support professional development through:
- Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) & Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) for CEng certification.
- Project Management Certifications (PRINCE2, Six Sigma) for leadership roles.
- AI, Automation & Sustainability Training to align with future industry trends.
Application & Recruitment Process
Many engineering companies offer structured graduate programs. The hiring process typically includes:
- Online Application & CV Submission – Highlighting technical skills, internships, and relevant projects.
- Aptitude & Technical Assessments – Testing numerical reasoning and engineering problem-solving.
- Assessment Centres – Group exercises, technical challenges, and case study evaluations.
- Interviews & Presentations – Discussing engineering concepts, past projects, and future industry challenges.
How to Improve Your Chances
- Gain Industry Experience – Through internships, work placements, or research projects.
- Stay Updated on Emerging Technologies – Keeping pace with automation, AI, and sustainability.
- Develop a Portfolio of Projects – Showcasing engineering designs, coding skills, or mechanical builds.
- Network with Industry Professionals – Attending engineering fairs, conferences, and trade shows.
Sources for Further Information
Institution of Civil Engineers www.ice.org.uk
Institution of Mechanical Engineers www.imeche.org
Institution of Structural Engineers www.istructe.org
The Institution of Engineering and Technology www.theiet.org
Engineering Council www.engc.org.uk
Institute of Marine Engineers www.imarest.org
Royal Academy of Engineering www.raeng.org.uk
Society of Manufacturing Engineering www.sme.org
Institution of Engineering Designers www.institution-engineering-designers.org.uk