What does it take to be a "Design Engineer" in EE world?

[zarjov]

Hi,

I'm into my 4th year of Engineering career as a Test Engineer. During my 1st year I was working with the power group and on my way to be a Electronics Design Engineer, but down sizing came and I was forced to transfer to Test Engineering. Although test engineering is an interesting job, I think I'm made to be a design engineer. I just had an interview with another company for a design engineer position but I was turned down because according to the interviewer my knowledge is in the basic even with 4 years engineering experience.

Frankly, I don't want to stay in test engineering, I want to move on but it looks like the only way to do that is to take a pay cut and start all over again as a college grad level (not a good thing for expanding family). Is this really what it takes or is there any other ways? Will a masters degree help? I know I'm a newbie but I had alot of things go in a wrong turn in my life and I don't want my career to go the same way.

Thank you for all your advises. This forum is good keep up the good work guys.

 

[IRstuff]

If your company is willing to subsidize it, then it may be a way to get there.

However, a part-time MS will take some time, so you certainly won't get there overnight.

TTFN

 

[ScottyUK]

I'm guessing you work in electronics manufacturing, although you didn't explicitly say so. If that's the case, then a possible side door into design may be doing circuit layout work. You'll gain design experience in how the design facility works, become fairly adept with the tools a designer uses, and have the chance to study some of the designs you are laying out. Some layout work is quite skilled - high power and high frequency or a combination being particularly tricky - so don't look down too much at the role as some are prone to do. Also, once you are in the design office it is easier to move internally than to get in from the outside so treat it as a stepping stone if you wish.

If you want to make the full jump to circuit design then you will need in-depth understanding of electronic devices at quite a fundamental level, so some additional studying will probably be required.


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If we learn from our mistakes,
I'm getting a great education!

 

[Comcokid]

Test engineering is not too bad a start towards a design career. You have to deal with a lot of hardware, software, measurement, and system issues. This gives you a broader background than many. Take advantage of design seminars when they become available in your area. Maybe even plan going to one of the more expensive 3-5 day courses, even if you have to pay your own way.

I started out as a test engineer for 3 years before moving to a design position at a small company where I had to wear a lot of hats to do the job. Over the time and many companies, I've had many manufacturing people complement me on my designs - but that's because I know before I start a design what it will be like for someone to build and test what I design.

 

[TheTick]

Look into contract work. For ME's, it's usually a good way to build a track record in design work.