Job holders in this unit group perform a variety of professional engineering functions not elsewhere classified in minor group 212: Engineering professionals.
Also calledClinical engineerBiomedical engineerBio-engineerClinical technologistDesign and development engineerResearch engineerand 143 more titles
Recruitment from abroad. 1,244 sponsored work visas were granted for this job from July 2025 to June 2026, most to people from India, France, Bulgaria, ranking it 14th of 313. Home Office
Who does it
ONS · Annual Population Survey · April 2025 to March 2026
19%aged 55 or over
58%hold a degree
16%women
Age of engineering professionals n.e.c.
Age profile of engineering professionals n.e.c.
4.7%!
30%
25%
21%!
16%!
2.4%!
16–2425–3435–4445–5455–6465+
!Small sample: treat with cautionShow as table
16–24
4.7% (small sample)
25–34
30%
35–44
25%
45–54
21% (small sample)
55–64
16% (small sample)
65+
2.4% (small sample)
Highest qualification
Highest qualification held by engineering professionals n.e.c.
Degree or equivalent58%
Higher education below degree9.2%
A levels or equivalent21%
GCSEs or equivalent9.5%
Other qualifications!1.2%
No qualifications!0.7%
!Small sample: treat with cautionShow as table
Degree or equivalent
58%
Higher education below degree
9.2%
A levels or equivalent
21%
GCSEs or equivalent
9.5%
Other qualifications
1.2% (small sample)
No qualifications
0.7% (small sample)
Main employers: engineering activities and related technical consultancy (18%), plumbing, heat and air-conditioning installation (6.5%), other research and experimental development on natural sciences and engineering (4.8%), other professional, scientific and technical activities nec (3.3%).
How to get in
Hold a degree
58%
as their highest qualification
Apprenticeships
18
from level 4, including degree apprenticeships
Apprenticeships take
18 months to 5 years
typically
Routes in
Clinical engineer
You can get into this job through:
University
You can do a degree to start training as a clinical engineer.
Subjects include:
biomedical engineering
engineering
pure or applied physics
applied maths
computer science
After your degree, you can apply for the postgraduate NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP). During the 3-year programme, you'll combine employment in the NHS with study for a postgraduate master's degree.
The programme covers several areas, including:
clinical measurement
rehabilitation engineering
medical device risk management and governance
There is a lot of competition for places on the STP, so it helps to have relevant experience. You could do some voluntary work in a hospital to get experience of patient contact.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Healthcare Science Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
This takes a minimum of 3 years and is a mix of on-the-job training and study for a degree.
You could then apply to take further training with the NHS to become a clinical engineer.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Other routes
If you do not have a degree, you could apply for the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP).
During the 3-year programme, you'll be employed in the NHS and study for an accredited university degree in healthcare science (clinical engineering).
To apply, you'll usually need:
5 GCSE grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) including English language, maths and a science subject
a minimum of 2 A levels, including maths or a science
Equivalent qualifications to A levels in science or engineering may be acceptable, for instance an extended diploma in applied science.
You could also work as a clinical engineering technologist in the NHS and apply to join the PTP.
Registration and professional bodies
Registration
you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Career tips
You would be expected to have an understanding of how the NHS values would apply in your work.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a clinical engineer from Health Careers and Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine.
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for clinical engineer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Design and development engineer
You can get into this job through:
University
You can take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree course.
Subjects include:
engineering product design
industrial design
computer-aided design engineering
engineering design and manufacture
materials science
maths and physics
Mechanical, electrical and civil engineering qualifications might also be accepted by employers.
Courses accredited by the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) may help your career development later on.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths
Apprenticeship
You might be able to apply for a Product Design and Development Engineer, or Robotics Engineer, Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
This can take around 4 and a half years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Apply directly
You could apply directly for design and development engineer roles.
You'll need experience and qualifications in a particular branch of engineering, for example:
mechanical
aerospace
energy
automotive
manufacturing
Registration and professional bodies
Further information
You can find out more about engineering careers and training from the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) and Neon.
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for design and development engineer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Renewable energy engineer
You can get into this job by studying for a degree qualification.
University
You can do a degree in an engineering or a scientific subject. Some employers might expect you to have a postgraduate qualification.
Relevant subjects include:
energy engineering
Earth sciences
environmental engineering
geophysics
renewable or sustainable energy
Getting work experience during your studies through a summer internship or year placement scheme can give you an advantage when you start looking for work.
Your university careers service can help you find opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Registration and professional bodies
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Energy Institute for training and professional development opportunities. You can also apply for chartered engineer status, for recognition of your skills and expertise in the industry.
Further information
You can find out more about working in renewable energy from:
the Energy Institute
The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA)
RenewableUK
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for renewable energy engineer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Robotics engineer
You can get into this job through:
University
You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
artificial intelligence and robotics
mechatronics
robotics engineering
mechanical or electronics engineering
computer science or mathematics
If you have a qualification in psychology or cognitive science, you could also work in the development of artificial intelligence.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
College
You could do a college course which might help you to find a job as a robotics technician. Courses include:
electronic systems engineering
computing
advanced manufacturing engineering
electrical or electronic engineering
With further training, you could then qualify as a robotics engineer.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship. Options include:
Robotics Engineer
Control Systems Engineer
Electro-Mechanical Engineer
Embedded Electronic Systems Design and Development Engineer
Manufacturing Engineer
These apprenticeships can take between 3 and 5 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Work your way up
You could start as a robotics technician or junior engineer. You could then study for higher education qualifications and work your way up to qualify as a robotics engineer.
Registration and professional bodies
Career tips
You'll find it useful to join robotics engineering groups or take part in robotics design competitions to build up your skills and knowledge.
Further information
You can discover more about careers in engineering and robotics from:
This is Engineering
The Institution of Engineering and Technology
Neon
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for robotics engineer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Nuclear engineer
You can get into this job through:
University
You can do a degree in a subject like:
nuclear engineering
chemical engineering
mechanical engineering
maths
physics with nuclear technology
materials and nuclear engineering
You could also do a postgraduate course if your first degree is in a relevant subject.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You may be able to apply for a place on an apprenticeship, such as:
Nuclear Scientist and Nuclear Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Other routes
You can start on a 2-year graduate training scheme called Nuclear Graduates, which is run by nuclear industry employers.
On the scheme, you'll receive professional development training in different areas of the nuclear industry.
You'll normally need a degree in a science or engineering subject to apply for a place.
What you’ll need
pass security checks
Registration and professional bodies
Career tips
You may need to relocate for work, as Britain's nuclear power stations are spread around the country. This includes ones in operation, those being decommissioned and proposed new sites.
You can find employers in each part of the country on the Nuclear Industry Association jobs map.
Further information
You can get details about working in the the nuclear industry through:
Destination Nuclear
Not Just Labcoats
UK Atomic Energy Authority
This is Engineering
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for nuclear engineer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Materials engineer
You can get into this job through:
University
You'll normally need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject, like:
materials engineering
materials science or technology
applied chemistry
applied physics
You could also take a degree course specialising in one group of materials or their commercial use, for example:
metallurgy
biomaterials
polymer science
sports engineering
If you have a related degree, for example, structural engineering, you may be able to take a postgraduate course in materials science and engineering.
You can search for materials science and engineering courses, accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, on the Engineering Council website.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply for a degree apprenticeship to begin your materials engineering career. Examples include:
Materials Science Technologist Level 6
Space Systems Engineer Level 6
Materials Process Engineer Level 7
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Registration and professional bodies
Career tips
Choosing to do an accredited course or a degree apprenticeship can help towards registration for incorporated or chartered engineer status with a professional body. This is a way to demonstrate your professional competence and expertise as your career progresses.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in materials science and engineering from:
Discover Materials
Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining
This is Engineering
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for materials engineer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Acoustics consultant
You can get into this job through:
University
Most employers will expect you to have a degree in a subject like:
acoustics
maths
physics
engineering
You could do a degree in music technology or environmental science, followed by further training in acoustics or applied acoustics at postgraduate level.
The Institute of Acoustics also offers the Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control, which can help towards gaining membership of the Institute.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Work your way up
You may be able to start work as an assistant or trainee acoustics technician and with further training, qualify as an engineer or consultant.
You'll normally need at least 4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including two science subjects. A levels or equivalent, like applied science, may be acceptable. Employers may also consider relevant work experience, for example, in non-destructive testing, if you do not have sufficient academic qualifications.
Registration and professional bodies
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institute of Acoustics for professional development opportunities and to make contacts in the industry.
Further information
You can find out more about a career as an acoustics consultant from the Institute of Acoustics.
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for acoustics consultant. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Ergonomist
You can get into this job through:
University
You can become an ergonomist by doing a degree that includes ergonomics as part of the course, for example:
occupational therapy
physiotherapy
psychology
sports science
design engineering
You can also take a postgraduate course in ergonomics and human factors, after completing a first degree, or if you have a lot of professional experience in this type of work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
a related degree or several years' relevant experience
Apprenticeship
You may be able to apply to do a Human Factors Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
It can take around 3 years to complete, and is a mix of on-the-job training and higher education study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Work your way up
If you work in an area like transport, healthcare, design engineering or health and safety you could take industry-recognised training courses in ergonomics to further your career. You might then look to take up postgraduate study.
Registration and professional bodies
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors for professional development training, events and networking opportunities.
Further information
You can learn more about a career in ergonomics from the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors and This is Engineering.
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for ergonomist. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Food scientist
You can get into this job through:
University
You'll usually need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:
food science and technology
food and nutritional science
food technology and product development
You may be able to study for a postgraduate qualification in food science if you have a related first degree, such as:
biochemistry
microbiology
agricultural science
You can search for degree and postgraduate courses accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology.
Experience of working in a food science or food development environment, for example through an industrial placement during your course, may improve your career prospects.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, for example:
Food Technologist Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
Food Industry Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
These take between 2 and 4 years to complete, and are a mix of on-the-job training and classroom study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
Work your way up
You could start as a food technologist, development assistant or lab technician with a food manufacturer. You would then study for relevant qualifications while you work.
Registration and professional bodies
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institute of Food Science and Technology for professional development opportunities, industry news and access to career resources.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a food scientist from the Institute of Food Science and Technology.
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for food scientist. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Technical brewer
You can get into this job through:
University
You could study for a degree in a subject, such as:
food science or food technology
brewing and distilling
microbiology
chemistry
You could continue your studies by doing a postgraduate qualification, like a master's in brewing and distilling, brewing science or biochemical engineering.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Apprenticeship
You could apply to a brewery company for a place on a Brewer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
This can take up to 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
To get onto an apprenticeship, you'll find it useful to have:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Other ways in
Work your way up
You may be able to start as a brewery production assistant or other operational role and take training on the job, with the support of your employer.
Apply directly
You'll usually need at least 2 years' experience in brewing to apply for technical jobs directly. Employers may also want you to have recognised industry qualifications like those offered by the Chartered Institute of Brewers and Distillers.
Other routes
You could take professional qualifications, for example the Foundation in Brewing, before applying for a job as a trainee with a brewery.
If you have a degree, you could apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with one of the larger brewing companies.
What you’ll need
be over 18 years of age
You may need a full driving licence for some jobs.
Registration and professional bodies
Career tips
Forklift truck training could be helpful when applying for jobs, though employers may put you through this when you start.
Further information
You can find out more about working in the brewing industry from Brewlab and the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates.
Routes in are from the National Careers Service job profile for technical brewer. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Apprenticeships
18 for this job
Level 5About 3 years
Food and drink engineer
Leads to
Relevant professional institutions
Employers may ask for
Individual employers will set their own entry requirements in terms of prior academic qualifications and vocational experience. Typically candidates will have…
Typically an apprentice might be expected to have a minimum of a Degree in science or engineering related subject, the OME professional degree apprenticeship…
researches into problem areas to advance basic knowledge, evaluate new theories and techniques and to solve specific problems
establishes principles and techniques to improve the quality, durability and performance of materials such as textiles, glass, rubber, plastics, ceramics, metals and alloys
designs new systems and equipment with regard to cost, market requirements and feasibility of manufacture
devises and implements control systems to monitor operational efficiency and performance of system and materials
prepares sketches, drawings and specifications showing materials to be used, construction and finishing methods and other details
examines and advises on patent applications
provides technical consultancy services
Skills
adjust engineering designs
perform scientific research
approve engineering design
analyse test data
use technical drawing software
draft design specifications
record test data
design prototypes
follow nuclear plant safety precautions
monitor nuclear power plant systems
perform laboratory tests
perform project management
use CAD software
assess financial viability
Knowledge
engineering principles
engineering processes
design principles
quality standards
mechanical engineering
physics
project management
technical drawings
Suits people who like
Practical, hands-on work
Working with ideas and solving problems
Outlook
DfE · Skills Imperative 2035
Broader groupThese projections are for science, research, engineering and technology professionals, a group of 28 jobs that includes engineering professionals n.e.c..
Change in jobs, 2020 to 2035↑ 18%about 394,000 more jobs
Workers needed by 20351.3 millionincluding people replacing those who retire or leave
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: Office for National Statistics licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Occupations in demand and the Employer Skills Survey: Department for Education and Skills England. Immigration system statistics: Home Office. Contains public sector information from the National Careers Service licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission.
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