Supervising engineers or engineering technologists, project management, working with clients, and providing advice and acting as a resource are all responsibilities of an engineering manager. A full-fledged professional engineer is required of an engineering manager. Engineering offers a wide range of specialization options, ranging from electronic to civil engineering.
To become a professional engineer (P.Eng), candidates must first earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering from a university. The duration of these programs is usually four to five years. Calculus, physics, algebra, technology, and English are among the high school courses required for admission to these programs. Because an engineering degree is a professional designation program, it is typically more expensive than a bachelor’s degree, resulting in greater wage-earning capacity upon graduation.
This type of position is rewarding for people who enjoy interacting with others, are natural leaders, and are skilled engineers. This position requires some instruction or guidance, which is a new skill for most engineers. In this position, interpersonal skills and oral communication are extremely important.
Engineering managers are responsible for supervising or managing groups of engineers, technologists, and other related professionals. The number of people and the scope of their responsibilities varies by industry. A civil engineering manager, for example, may be in charge of architectural drawing teams, draftspeople, and other support personnel.
The engineering manager’s day revolves around project management. He or she is in charge of project planning, timeline creation, regular meeting organization, working with contractors and clients, and keeping the team on track in this position. Engineering projects are frequently large, and it is not uncommon for multiple engineering managers to be assigned to a single project. This is especially useful for projects involving multiple engineering disciplines.
Interacting with clients is a crucial part of the engineering manager’s job. He or she is usually present for the first meeting, the review or creation of the project design or specifications, and the team assignment. The engineering manager usually organizes regular meetings, setting the agenda and bringing in team members as needed.
Important skills include the ability to work well with a diverse group of people, solve problems quickly, and share information and experience with colleagues. Additional courses in team building, effective communication, and mentoring can be very beneficial to many engineering managers in this role. The behavior of the team leader determines the team’s dynamic.