The Work

Design engineers begin each project by looking at a 'brief', (a set of instructions) which explains what the aim of the project is. A car manufacturer, for example, may want to increase sales of one of their cars by reducing fuel consumption or improving the look of a new model.

Design engineers are responsible for making sure the product meets the manufacturer's needs and is safe, efficient, reliable, and economical to produce. Before they prepare a design, engineers gather information by talking to other experts, reading engineering literature and looking at the results of test data on materials and processes.

Engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) techniques to produce a design on a visual display screen. The computer performs all the necessary calculations relating to the weight of parts and the loads they must bear.

The engineer can compare possible solutions by using drawings, calculations, and physical and computer models. Engineers work on models to check and measure the way a product works; they may have to modify their designs as a result. Design engineers work in teams alongside other engineers, technicians and production staff.

They may supervise and lead teams of design draughtspeople. They are also responsible for regular progress reports for project managers and clients.

Further Information

• Design & Development Engineer - from: N.C.S. [UK]
• Design & Development Engineer - from: N.C.S. [UK]

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

Creative

Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.

Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.

Design Engineers typically complete an appropriate engineering degree or equivalent qualification. Most engineering courses involve some element of design work. It is essential to explore course details to make sure the engineering course you chose is appropriate to the branch of engineering you want to follow.

Training & Development 

FET Centre Traineeship Engineering Technology, Engineering Operations, Manufacturing Technician Maintenance Skills Technology, CNC (Computer Numeric Control) Operator at NFQ level 5 Search FET Traineeship options 

FET Centre PLC courses Pre apprenticeship  Engineering, Pre Univ  Engineering, Engineering Technology, Product Design, Product Design & Manufacture at NFQ Level 5-6 Search FET centre PLC options

Apprenticeship There are up to 33 Engineeering, Manufacturing, and Design Apprenticeship programmes from NFQ levels 6-10 Search apprenticeship 

Higher Education CAO entry Manufacturing & Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering (Common entry to - Agricultural, Biomedical, Energy, Manufacturing and/or Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Engineering - Precision Engineering & Design, Manufacturing Engineering Design NFQ Level 6-8 Search CAO options

Professional Development 

Springboard courses You can study full, part time, and online blended Engineering & Manufacturing programmes to develop your skills NFQ level 6-9 search Springboardcourses

Post graduate study Options: Engineering - Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering - Mechanical Manufacturing & Biomedical Engineering - Research, Product Design, Product Design Control, Quality Management at NFQ levels 9-10 

Engineers Ireland Depending on level of entry, Design Engineers can gain Chartered Engineer or Associate Engineer status. You can apply for these professional titles through Engineers Ireland after first gaining an accredited degree, diploma or certificate, followed  by three or four years experience in the workplace. All professional titles are highly regarded by employers throughout industry.

Last Updated: April, 2023

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €40k - €85k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
CPL / Morgan McKinley / Collins McNicolas/ Sigmar/ Osborne

Last Updated: July, 2024

* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.

View Salary information from Indeed.ie
Note: data not aways available

This occupation has been identified as a Job in Demand by the most recent National Skills Bulletin.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Employment grew strongly for this occupation between 2018 and 2021, although employment remained unchanged in the most recent time period. Almost three quarters were employed in industry. Despite the static employment levels in 2022, there was a significant increase in the number of employment permits issued between 2021 and 2022 (by 1,100), with the industrial sector accounting for half of the increase. Roles for which permits were issued included quality, process, and design engineers.

This occupation had the highest number of mentions of vacancies that were difficult to fill in the Recruitment Agency Survey, especially for quality control/assurance, compliance/regulatory and process engineering roles. Employers (through Skills for Growth and/or Spotlight on Skills) have cited roles in design engineering (with specific industry knowledge), quality control and production engineers as being difficult to fill. Demand continues to be strong for this occupation despite static employment levels and issues with recruiting suitably qualified/experienced candidates for these roles are likely to persist. 

• Engineers Ireland

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