Employers

There are 392,120 engineering technologists and technicians (except drafters) employed in the United States. Some of these technologists and technicians work in manufacturing. Engineering technologists are employed by architectural, engineering, and related services firms; machinery manufacturing companies; transportation manufacturing companies; computer and electronic product manufacturing companies; and companies involved in scientific, research, and development services.

Starting Out

Manufacturing engineering technologists often get their start through an apprenticeship or internship while in school. They may receive job offers upon graduation. They usually start in entry-level positions, such as junior and assistant technologists. They are closely supervised by senior technologists while receiving on-the-job training. Ask your schools career services office for help with finding job listings. You can also contact companies directly through the career sections of their Web sites. State employment offices also post job openings in manufacturing engineering. Find employment listings and other resources at USAJOBS (https://www.usajobs.gov), a Web site from the federal Office of Personnel Management. Also, some professional associations offer job listings.

Manufacturing engineering technologists with three or more years of experience may advance to become senior manufacturing engineering technologists, assuming more responsibilities and projects. They may be promoted to supervisor and management positions, hiring and overseeing the work of engineering technologists. They may also advance by getting a masters degree in industrial engineering or a related field, and becoming certified in various specialties. Some may start their own consulting companies.

Learn more about the different career opportunities in the U.S. manufacturing industry, meet others working in the field, and gain access to educational programs, mentoring, job referrals, and other resources by joining professional and student associations such as the Association for Manufacturing Technology (https://www.amtonline.org) and SME (https://www.sme.org).

Get an internship or part-time job in a manufacturing engineering company to gain valuable work experience while you are still in school. Ask your schools career services office for assistance with the internship and job search.

Attend and volunteer at industry conferences and events to keep up with industry news and developments. Find upcoming event listings on professional associations Web sites, such as https://www.amtonline.org/events.