Top 5 Engineering Jobs And The Skills You Need For A Successful Career

Given the rapid developments in science and technology, engineering has become one of the most in-demand careers worldwide. Even in Malaysia, top engineering jobs fill the need for innovation, design, and development in various sectors. Find out which engineering field offers the best career advancement and determine which jobs to pursue.

Why consider an engineering career path?

If you have a knack for solving problems and drive for innovation, engineering may be the right path for you. Pursuing a career in engineering carries several advantages, but three of the main benefits are:

Career opportunities

The engineering field has a broad range of career options, including different roles in each specialisation. It is not all construction and building. Engineering can lead to a career in various fields like finance and medicine.

Financial security

According to the latest JobStreet Salary Report, the engineering industry found the highest median salary growth in Malaysia from 2020 to 2021. This data only proves that engineering is, indeed, a lucrative career that requires a unique set of skills. Engineering opportunities see competitive compensation with the skill level needed to handle equipment, solve complex problems, and develop comprehensive design systems.

Intellectual development

No matter what engineering profession you choose to pursue, you will not see many dull days. Engineers are required to have logic and problem-solving skills daily. These transferable skills will be valuable throughout your career.

How to become an engineer in Malaysia

Top engineering jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or similar qualifications recognised by the Engineering Accreditation Department and the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). Most of the universities in Malaysia offer various specialisations currently high in demand. Universities like the Universiti of Malaya and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS have produced world-class engineers who have helped build some of the famous structures in the country.

Before practising engineering, you need to undergo training and exposure to your preferred practice for at least three years. You will become a Professional Engineer if you pass the Professional Assessment Examination and other membership requirements held by The Institution Of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM).

Beef up your resume with internships and engineering programs. Some employers prefer to hire jobseekers who have the practical experience and are members of the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).

What qualities do successful engineers have?

Strong mathematical skills

A good engineer has excellent numerical skills and understands how to apply these numbers when making design decisions.

Analytical and critical thinking skills

Engineers are logical thinkers with excellent problem-solving skills. You must have a passion for applying science and drive to improve people's lives.

Collaboration skills

Creating the best solutions to complex problems requires close collaboration with customers, suppliers and fellow engineers. You need to be a team player, regardless of your speciality.

Communication skills

Efficient communication is essential to ensure that procedures are understood, that products are assembled correctly, and that everyone working on the project is on the same page. At the same time, you must listen and receive feedback to modify the project or product according to the client's requirements.

Innovativeness

Engineering is not all math and science. Top engineering jobs also involve creativity and artistry. You need to come up with solutions to problems that others may overlook. Successful engineers look at the big picture, provide solutions, and narrow down the possibilities through testing and experimentation.

What are the top engineering jobs in Malaysia?

Chemical Engineer

Average Pay: RM3,100

Maximum Salary: RM5,600

Specialisations: Biochemical engineering, petroleum engineering, and applied chemistry

Chemical engineers are responsible for most items people use every day. They design and process raw materials into new forms. Skincare, medicines, and clothing are produced by the processes designed and developed by chemical engineers.

The work of chemical engineers is one of the most in-demand jobs in Malaysia. It drives the country's growth through exportation. On top of technical knowledge of engineering and chemistry, the field also touches economics and resources management. It opens up many other areas, such as technical sales, consultancy or even scientific journalism.

Civil Engineer

Average Pay: RM3,200

Maximum Salary: RM6,000

Specialisations: Structural engineering, environmental engineering, and transportation engineering

Civil engineers are often seen in the construction industry. The profession involves building and maintaining road systems, water facilities, and housing areas. This engineering field lets you explore the design and architecture aspects, allowing you to express your creativity.

The role of a civil engineer requires an understanding of engineering fundamentals and various technologies to implement in planning, designing, and construction. It also involves business savviness and organisation to manage and plan the project's budget and deadlines.

Civil engineering is one of the top engineering jobs in Malaysia. The country boasts famous structures that were born from the work of talented civil engineers, like the well-known Penang Bridge. Civil engineers are highly regarded as they play an important role by contributing to the growing business districts in the nation.

Mechanical Engineer

Average Pay: RM3,600Maximum Salary: RM7,200Specialisations: Robotics and automation, industrial engineering, and aircraft engineering

Mechanical engineers are responsible for assessing and improving the mechanical performance of devices and engines. They also deal with deciding timescales, allocating budgets, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the equipment. Mechanical engineers are primarily involved in various sectors, including aerospace, manufacturing, and automotive design.

This career path will suit you if you are technically minded, skilled at science and mathematics, and good at problem-solving. This profession is key to developing countries like Malaysia. That is why businesses are keen on adding mechanical engineers to their workforce.

Electrical Engineer

Average Pay: RM3,800Maximum Salary: RM8,500Specialisations: Computer engineering, telecommunications engineer, and electrical design engineers

Electrical engineering generally deals with the design and application of electricity and electronics. It involves creating communication and electrical systems ranging from navigation systems to wiring and lighting. Electrical engineers work closely with software engineers to provide hardware for applications.

Electrical engineering plays an essential role in the advancement of technology. That is why it is one of the highest paying jobs today. If you are constantly looking for ways to push the boundaries of technology, you will definitely fit in with electrical engineering.

Software Engineer

Average Pay: RM3,900Maximum Salary: RM7,300Specialisations: Data science and machine learning, information technology, and cybersecurity

Every industry is increasing its dependence on technology, making software engineering one of the top engineering professions globally. In fact, in 2021 alone, the profession saw a continued increase due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses relied on digitalisation, which software engineers forefronted, to ensure business continuity.

Software engineering is likely to produce exciting career opportunities and high salaries. You can work on exciting projects like video games, mobile applications or run computer networks for an organisation. The profession is also not limited to a particular industry. You can be a software engineer for a financial institution or a media corporation.

To become a software engineer, you will need to familiarise yourself with several programming languages. The more languages you know, the better your job prospects will be. With various multinational companies that have already set camp in Malaysia, such as Intel, Dell Technologies, and IBM, software engineers place value as part of their workforce.

The trend towards technology and automation is set to remain for the foreseeable future. The Malaysian government now pushes for Industry Revolution 4.0., an initiative to boost the country's economy with efficient manufacturing initiatives. You can indeed find employment and work your way up the career ladder with top engineering jobs in today's advancing society.

Do you have what it takes to be an engineer? Update your JobStreet profile now and browse the trending opportunities in your industry choice.

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