Engineering has quickly become one of the top career choices among young people. Not only is engineering becoming an increasingly popular major among college students, but the industry also has lower unemployment than the national average. Certain fields are experiencing even more growth than others. Here’s a glance into the most in-demand engineering jobs for 2017.
Top 6 In-Demand Engineering Jobs
When looking for a career in engineering, it’s important to consider what fields are in the highest demand and which has the most competition. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are how unemployment rates and growth rates compare among the following engineering jobs.
1) Biomedical Engineering- Biomedical engineering focuses on solving problems related to medicine and biology through research and development. Generally, biomedical engineers need at least a Bachelor’s degree and are pursuing careers in healthcare.
Unemployment Rate: 9.0%
Growth Rate: 23%
2) Software Engineering- These engineers design, write or improve programs and code within various computer software applications. Software engineers usually need a Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
Unemployment Rate: 1.5%
Growth Rate: 17%
3) Environmental Engineering– Environmental engineers are focused on keeping up with environmental regulations and ensuring that they are adhered to. Employers typically favor candidates with hands on co-op experience as well as a Bachelor’s degree.
Unemployment Rate: 0.8%
Growth Rate: 12.4%
4) Petroleum Engineering– Petroleum engineers design ways to extract oil in a safe and cost-effective way. A Bachelor’s degree is necessary to become a petroleum engineer and employer’s favor co-op programs in this field as well.
Unemployment Rate: 4.0%
Growth Rate: 10%
5) Civil Engineering- Civil engineers oversee the development of roads, bridges, buildings and other public works. Civil engineers need a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or one its specialties. Licensing may also be required to work in civil engineering.
Unemployment Rate: 1.5%
Growth Rate: 8%
6) Mechanical Engineering-Mechanical engineering has been strongly affected by the 3D printing industry. Mechanical engineers employ creativity to research, design and develop devices. They transform ideas into usable products. Mechanical engineers need a Bachelor’s degree and licensing.
Unemployment Rate: 1.6%
Growth Rate: 5%
Engineering is one of the hottest careers, and most fields have a higher than average growth rate along with a lower than average unemployment rate. For more on industry trends, read our blog about what’s on the forecast for the engineering job market. Or if you are looking to start a career in the engineering or government sectors, contact TriMech Services.
