Design engineer
Create the products we'll all use in the future, making everyday things work better, last longer and be more helpful.
Also known as: product design engineer
About the job
A day in the life – Design engineer
What it's like
Design engineers are the creative problem-solvers behind the products we use everyday, from the smallest gadgets to large-scale systems. You'll turn ideas into reality, constantly striving to make things work better and last longer and meet user needs.
By understanding how things work and the properties of different materials, you'll develop and refine products and the processes used to manufacture them.
You'll apply your knowledge of engineering and design principles to create items that are not only functional but also safe, efficient and cost-effective for companies to produce and sell.
You could work in diverse industries from electronics or synthetic textiles, redesigning phones or engineering carbon fibre motorbike parts. Your role could vary depending on the project.
Your tasks might include:
identifying and researching opportunities for new and improved products based on user needs and feasibility
applying models and CAD (computer-aided design) or CAE (computer-assisted engineering) software to create plans and prototypes
testing and analysing prototypes
considering key factors, such as usability, safety, cost, efficiency and environmental impact in the design process
preparing progress reports and presentations for stakeholders
working across diverse industries from manufacturing, to technology, to energy and more
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You could:
focus on creating products with reduced environmental impact throughout their lifecycle
design products and processes that minimise energy and material consumption and reduce waste
Hours
You'll normally work Monday to Friday.
Environment
Most of your time will be spent working in a design or drawing office using CAD/CAE software.
Depending on the industry, you might work in labs, manufacturing plants or visit client sites for testing and project oversight.
Travel
There would be occasional travel to meet clients or go to project sites, depending on what you're working on.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Design engineer'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
Clinical engineer Ergonomist Robotics engineer Solar design engineer
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing Energy Digital technologies Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- analysing
- attention to detail
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- evaluating
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- working with technology
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Design and Technology
Engineering Science
Mathematics of Mechanics
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
Applications of Mathematics
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Product Design Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Computer Aided Design Engineering
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Product Design
Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover Modern Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Discover Graduate Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
Building a portfolio showcasing your design projects, problem-solving skills and technical abilities can significantly help with your job applications.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a design engineer. Search for engineering opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Design engineer'
