Associate project engineers assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of engineering projects. They work closely with senior engineers and project managers to monitor project progress and resolve relevant issues.
Median income:
$81,795 annually or $39.32 per hour.
Lifestyle:
Associate project engineers typically work full-time in office settings but often engage in regular site visits to project locations. The field is generally fast-paced, requiring project engineers to be adaptable and dynamic.
Exciting Parts of the Job
Seeing results from your work and contributing to significant projects
Finding creative solutions to complex engineering challenges
Working on cutting-edge projects and implementing new technologies
Challenging Parts of the Job
Managing tight project deadlines and ensuring timely completion
Handling high-stress situations and making critical decisions under pressure
Dealing with intricate technical details and ensuring accuracy
Education requirements:
A bachelor’s degree is typically required and pursuing certificates to showcase specific skills relevant to desired roles can be beneficial.
This is perfect for you if:
You love solving problems
You are very attentive to detail
You like managing and supporting teams
You’re a life-long learner
If that sounds like you, definitely watch our interview with Andrea Martin to learn more about being an associate project engineer here!
Day in the Life
Schedule:
Full-time, following regular 40 hours per week. However, flexibility in hours may be required based on project needs and deadlines.
Setting:
Associate project engineers typically work in offices and may occasionally travel to visit project sites for fieldwork.
Tasks:
Preparing and maintaining project documentation, providing technical support, and coordinating with team members and stakeholders, conducting site visits to monitor project progress, and ensuring compliance with plans and standards.
Topics:
Technical advancements in engineering practices and regulations, ensuring they stay updated on project management methodologies.
Skills:
Proficient in engineering principles, project management methodologies, quality assurance practices, and data analysis.
Tools:
Associate project engineers rely on computer software such as Microsoft Teams for communication, Excel for data management, SolidWorks for CAD design, and tools like 3D PDFs, ZBrush, and MeshLab for 3D modeling and design tasks.
Common Characteristics
Natural Talents (strengths):
Associate project engineers are naturally good at problem-solving, have meticulous attention to detail, and possess strong communication and leadership skills.
Interests:
Hands-on work that aligns with the technical aspects of engineering projects, understanding scientific and technical principles, as well as leadership and management.
Personality:
Associate project engineers typically have realistic, investigative, and enterprising personality traits. They are practical, analytical, and inclined towards leadership and management roles.
Values:
Achievement, professional growth, team collaboration, quality, innovation, and a productive work environment.
*Terms used to describe interests and personality are based on the Holland Framework.
How to Become an Associate Project Engineer
Education requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or industrial engineering is typically required.
Preferred majors:
Pursuing majors in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field can be helpful.
Specialties and Similar Career Paths
Construction Project Engineer
Mechanical Project Engineer
Electrical Project Engineer
Software Project Engineer
Environmental Project Engineer
Manufacturing Project Engineer
Civil Project Engineer
Advice from Andrea
Job hunt tips to set yourself apart:
Network actively in your industry, showcase your technical skills, and customize your applications to match each job’s requirements.
Recommended resources:
Andrea recommends obtaining a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification to deepen your understanding of project planning and management.
What Andrea would tell her younger self if she was just getting started:
“But I think the biggest advice that I would give her is to be patient. Your opportunity is gonna come, and it did.”
