A field engineer is a professional who works on jobs that are not located at the company’s main office or headquarters. This person frequently visits clients at their homes or places of business. He or she may work in a variety of fields and be in charge of installing hardware, servicing machines, or maintaining and repairing products that have already been installed.
Field engineers should develop expertise in the area of service, including a strong familiarity with the product, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Because field engineers frequently interact with clients, having strong communication skills can be advantageous. Dexterity and fine motor skills are frequently required.
A potential field engineer can pursue a variety of training programs, degrees, and apprenticeships. A typical field engineer learns on the job, but formal training in the specialized field is often required, or at the very least desired, depending on the company. Utilities, construction, engineering, pest control, plumbing, computer programming, electronics, and a variety of other fields are examples of these fields.
A field engineer’s daily schedule will vary depending on their area of expertise, company, and willingness to travel. Some field engineers may travel for a day or more to repair specialized equipment, such as farm machinery, while others may complete tasks in their own communities. A company-employed field engineer may follow a set daily schedule, whereas a self-employed engineer can work from home and set his or her own flexible schedule.
While it is possible to work as part of a team, many field engineers work alone. Depending on the company, tools, transportation, and a communication device such as a cellular phone or pager may or may not be provided. Construction field engineers, for example, are frequently required to provide their own tools and transportation, whereas cable field engineers are more likely to have access to a company vehicle and tools. Some companies also reimburse employees for mileage traveled while on the job.
Continuing education may be necessary, particularly if the business is technologically based. Field engineers must be prepared to learn and adapt to changes in products and services as they occur. The company may pay for your education.