A role in engineering allows you to shape the world around you. It’s a chance to make a positive difference and enjoy a career with unlimited possibilities.
Today our engineers are helping us to steer the future of mission critical security technology. But for many of them, their career journey started with the same simple question - what roles are available in engineering?
This article showcases the different engineer roles on offer and the real-world difference you can make in this game-changing profession.
What are the different types of engineering jobs?
There’s a wide range of engineering roles available in the UK and a lot of demand for their work. In fact, a recent study published by Engineering UK revealed that 1 in 4 jobs being advertised in this country are within the field of engineering.
Each of these different roles gives you the chance to solve complex problems, design innovations and deliver a real-world impact.
Why not browse through the full list below to find the speciality that most suits you. These are arranged into wider fields of engineering and the subfields that are most closely related to each.
As an example of this, you may choose to pursue a career in mechanical engineering but go on to specialise in the subfield of marine engineering. Here at BAE Systems, we provide limitless opportunities for growth, whichever role you choose to launch your career.
This means that over time, you could progress into more specific fields of engineering that best suit your skillset and interests.
Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineers have a vital role to play in the design and manufacture of new machinery. You could be tasked with building one part of a machine or overseeing the production of the whole structure.
Aerospace engineering
Aerospace engineers guide innovations for spacecraft, satellites and missiles. They push the boundaries of what is possible in space.
Aeronautical engineering
The work of an aeronautical engineer centres around aircraft development. From planes and helicopters to solar-powered drones and military jets, you’ll revolutionise the skies.
Work in this area at BAE Systems, and you could contribute to developing the world's first advances in combat aircraft, such as the Tempest air system.
Marine engineering
Marine engineers guide advances in sea-going vessels, such as boats, ships and submarines. You could specialise in a naval architecture design role or focus on the electrical and mechanical aspects of marine structures.
As a marine engineer at BAE Systems, you’ll work on some of the most advanced engineering projects in the world, creating revolutionary vessels for the Royal Navy, such as the Dreadnought class submarines.
Electrical engineering
Electrical engineers steer technical advancements in electrical equipment. They design, develop and test products such as motors, radars and power generators. Their work is vital across a wide range of industries.
Computer engineering
Those involved in computer engineering work on advances in hardware and components. From circuit boards and memory chips to processors and peripheral devices.
Data engineering
Data engineers work on cutting-edge systems that collect large volumes of data. Their goal is to make this data easy to evaluate, creating insights that influence important choices worldwide.
Software engineering
Software engineers create and develop digital applications that improve people’s lives. Whether the end user is a member of the public, a business or a specially trained pilot – the software you develop will help them complete tasks more effectively.
Industrial engineering
Those involved in industrial engineering find the best way to integrate people, machines, materials, data and energy. They work across a wide range of sectors to deliver cost-efficient processes and systems.
Manufacturing engineering
Manufacturing engineers focus on the development of specialised machinery and systems to handle or move heavy goods and equipment. They’re tasked with finding new ways to improve production methods.
Materials engineering
As a materials engineer, you’ll focus on testing raw materials. In this role, you’ll find the limits of components and figure out ways to improve their performance.
Safety engineering
The role of a safety engineer is to protect both people and property. They do this by coming up with new safety procedures and systems. These stop chemicals, machinery, software and other hazards from causing injury, illness or damage in the workplace.
Systems engineering
As a systems engineer, you’ll find the best way to make amazing things happen, handling projects from concept to completion. This will involve designing, testing, and installing new systems, which could be anything from a new piece of software to a revolutionary new robot.
Nuclear engineering
Nuclear engineers refine the systems and processes needed to safely control nuclear energy and radiation. Their work is vital at BAE Systems as we develop the next generation of advanced nuclear submarines.
The nuclear sector is undergoing an exciting period of growth in the UK. Due to increased investment in skills, job opportunities in this area are likely to increase rapidly in the years ahead.
This has been accelerated by the AUKUS submarine partnership and the UK government’s stated plans for nuclear energy. By 2050, 25% of the country’s electricity will be generated by nuclear power.
Chemical engineering
Chemical engineers find efficient ways to turn raw materials into everyday products. You could work on developing anything from food and new medicines to clothing and toiletries.
The sectors that employ the most chemical engineers include the pharmaceutical, textile and biochemical industries.
Civil engineering
As a civil engineer, you could work on the construction of bridges, football stadiums, parks or transport infrastructure. Your work will have a big impact on the daily life of local communities.
Architectural engineering
In this role, you’ll oversee the construction of buildings. Working closely with architects, you’ll create modern and functional designs and support at all stages of the build process.
Environmental engineering
An environmental engineer's work is focused on making the planet a healthier place. You might work on anti-pollution projects, new waste disposal concepts, or climate change initiatives.
Structural engineering
Structural engineers oversee the construction process, as well as advise on existing structures. Their job is to ensure that buildings have the required strength and durability.
Transport engineering
In a transport engineering role, you will design the construction of infrastructure such as roads, underground rail, and airports. This could involve mapping out the area of construction, calculating overall costs, and planning maintenance arrangements.
Learn more about BAE Systems
Interested in joining our team or finding out more about our engineering careers? Why not browse our engineering page, latest engineer jobs or take a look at our early careers section.
You can also get an insider view by reading inspiring stories from our employees at BAE Systems.