Project Engineer Intern Career Path

Each project engineer job has different requirements, but a few education requirements are common between all of them. For example, you'll need at least a high school diploma or GED, and many project engineers have a bachelor's degree in a field such as construction management, engineering, or business management. Some even pursue a degree in engineering management.

A degree provides you with more opportunities to land a higher-paying job and opens up more job opportunities in general. You'll learn specific skills in your studies, including technical communications, basic business practices, controllers, manufacturing processes, accounting, and industrial motors. You'll also develop skills like:

• Problem-solving.
• Organization.
• Decision-making.
• Mathematics.
• Communication.
• Leadership.

Entry-level project engineers help senior project engineers with projects. While in this role you will gain experience in schedule planning, acting as a liaison between subcontractors and contractors, providing status updates to customers, and answering questions about project progress. Most companies use the role of entry-level project engineer as extended training for new project engineers. A senior project engineer will supervise you and provide feedback to assist you in improving your skills and preparing for a less-supervised, regular project engineer role.

The basic qualifications required for entry-level project engineering positions are a bachelor's degree in a related field and industry experience. Most project engineers get experience via professional development opportunities and internships. Having an understanding of specialized industry-related equipment or software is also beneficial when getting a position as a project engineer.

You may wish to obtain various certifications to build credibility and expand job opportunities as a project engineer. These include:

• Project Management Professional Certification: The Project Management Institute issues the PMP certification, and successful completion demonstrates that you understand the basic principles of project management. You must pass an exam and renew your certification every three years.
• Certified Professional in Engineering Management: The American Society offers the CPEM for Engineering Management. This certification recognizes knowledge of skills in technical operations management. To obtain this certification, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, as well as four years of experience.
• Certified Associate in Engineering Management: This certificate is also offered by the ASEM and is earned in preparation for technical management or early supervisory assignments. This certification may be obtained by passing an examination and having a bachelor's degree in an engineering or technology field.