Ceramic Engineer

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Work Tasks

CERAMIC ENGINEERS do research, develop processing techniques, design machinery, and direct technical work concerned with ceramic materials and manufacturing. They develop new ceramic materials and methods for making ceramic materials into useful products. They work on products such as glassware, semiconductors, auto and aircraft engine parts, fiber-optic lines, tile, brick, tableware, and electric insulators. They study and direct the testing of physical, chemical, and thermal properties of ceramic materials. They analyze results of tests to determine the combination of materials that will improve the quality of the products. They design equipment for forming, firing, and handling products.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $80,500 average per year ($38.75 per hour)
• A small occupation (21,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.9% per year)

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree in engineering is generally required for entry-level positions for CERAMIC ENGINEERS. Graduate training is essential for engineering faculty positions. Many engineers obtain graduate degrees in engineering or business administration to learn new technology, broaden their education, and enhance their promotion opportunities. Licensing may be required. Applicants must have a degree from an accredited engineering program, four years of relevant work experience, and successful completion of a state examination.