Ceramics Engineers

Employers

There are approximately 25,000 materials engineers in the United States, which is a relatively small percentage of the workforce. Many different employers hire ceramics engineers for a variety of positions. They are involved at research, development, and manufacturing companies, electronics industries, and research and testing organizations. They work in industries that produce and process metal; machinery; electrical equipment; aircraft; and stone, clay, and glass products. They work in chemical industries that make and use ceramic products, as well as in computer and semiconductor industries. They also work in federal government agencies, at engineering consulting companies, and in consulting (where you will need your Professional Engineer licensing).

Starting Out

A bachelor's degree is required to become a materials engineer and most companies will require a degree from an ABET-accredited program. Most companies value experience, as well as education, so it would be advantageous to participate in a cooperative program while in college that combines practical experience while earning college credits. Engineering colleges will offer job fairs so be sure to attend these sessions to network with hiring agencies and submit your resume in person. It's also a good idea to create a LinkedIn profile to increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters. You can also use LinkedIn to network and learn more about potential employers and the ceramics industry.