What Is Physical Engineering
Physical engineering is the discipline that applies the principles of math, science, and engineering to create technological solutions. Physical engineers typically design products or systems for the aerospace, automotive, biomedical or industrial sectors, often specializing in a particular industry. However, physical engineering can be used as a broad description of mechanical engineering.
The exact definition of "physical engineering" may depend on the context in which it is used. A recent treatise states, "the broadest definition of physical engineering is the creative application of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and materials science principles to solve practical problems relating to any human activity." However, this expansive definition does not limit the scope of the discipline; for example, it includes biomechanics, electronic engineering, and product design within its domain.
Physical engineers are typically employed in manufacturing-related industries that range from electrical equipment to chemical or biomedical products. Mechanical engineers, by contrast, are generally employed in industrial environments or technical fields relating directly to production processes or applications.
In practice, however, physical engineers are generally concerned with two areas of engineering: mechanics and electronics. The mechanical engineering aspects of physical engineering include uncertainties in analyzing stresses and deformations, vibrations, heat transfer, motion control, lubrication, dynamics, and acoustics. Electronics concerns the design of circuits and devices.
Physical engineers also concern themselves with power and energy conversion. They design power plants and other energy production facilities that convert chemical or mechanical energy into electric signals transmitted to machines or homes. A physical engineer may also design and install a nuclear power plant, an artificial heart, or a human implant that uses electronic controls.
The discipline is concerned with the design and analysis of products and systems. The selection of materials and components, the selection of manufacturing routes, the creation of CAD models that can be used in the design process, the testing of prototypes, production engineering, and maintenance engineering—all fall under physical engineering's domain
What is a physical engineer's role?
Physical engineers design and develop new products, including advanced energy technologies. Because physical processes such as heat, radiation, and sound concern the engineer, physical engineers often work closely with other engineers who specialize in control systems such as electrical, mechanical, or electrical-mechanical. Among the most common tasks performed by physical engineers are:
1. Defining the problem: the scope of work and available resources
2. Categorizing constraints: can a task be done with current technology?
3. Interpreting and applying engineering standards
4. Implementing design procedures
5. Evaluating materials, components, and manufacturing processes for quality, reliability, safety, cost-effectiveness, durability, efficiency, and manufacturability
6. Designing physical subsystems to meet functions or requirements in the final product (components)
7. Planning, organizing, and coordinating design efforts
8. Preparing a presentation of results and proposed solutions to senior management
Physical engineers often work at the interface between engineering disciplines, making them excellent project managers for projects across the spectrum of engineering disciplines. Physical engineers need strong communication skills to function effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
Although physical engineers design products, they do not necessarily intend to manufacture those products themselves (though they may participate in such manufacturing processes if necessary). As a result, physical engineers must have skills beyond their discipline's technical aspects, such as management and organizational skills.
How to Get a Career as a Physical Engineer
If you plan to become a physical engineer, follow the steps below; the career requirements for physical engineers often involve several steps. Below is a list that details the most common way that people become physical engineers:
1. Get an education
To become a physical engineer, students should complete a bachelor's degree program in mechanical engineering or another similar discipline. A master's degree in mechanical engineering can help an engineer advance to more complex projects. However, many entry-level positions — particularly in government — require only a bachelor's degree.
The required educational background for those working as physical engineers included an associate's degree and a master's or doctorate. While the degree required for entry-level positions is likely to be a four-year bachelor's degree in a related field, those entering the field of aerodynamics often require a master's in engineering or aeronautics. Many physical engineers hold degrees in architecture and engineering or another related field.
2. Work Experience
Getting a job as a physical engineer will typically require some experience in the field. A vocational training program or internship may be available to you locally, which can help you get your foot in the door with a local engineering firm or government agency. The number of years needed to become a physical engineer depends on the job requirements. The average is 4 to 5 years, although top engineers often spend up to 10 years in their field before they achieve professional status.
The first step is usually an Internship. To work as an intern, one must complete at least two internships with employers within the same company or organization. After completing either of these steps, one can apply for jobs as a Physical Engineer in various firms and organizations worldwide.
One year of work experience is required for those entering the field of aerodynamics. To become a mechanical engineer, at least two years of industrial experience are needed.
3. Build your skills
Even with relevant education and experience, some engineers may find the job market tough. Those looking to improve their skills should enroll in continuing education courses to stay competitive in the job market. Many universities offer online degrees and certificate programs to help individuals further their knowledge base, so even those already working can keep up with modern technology and new developments.
4. Professional Certification
Most employers prefer to hire physical engineers that have professional certification since this demonstrates a level of commitment and expertise in the field. This is not a requirement, though, since many organizations may hire inexperienced employees as long as they have a unique skill set and the ability to learn quickly on their feet. Certification is offered by private companies as well as government agencies.
Some employers prefer candidates with a college degree in engineering or a related field, while others do not. Some industries require their engineers to have a license or certification. For example, Some companies require applicants to take and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam before gaining employment.
4. Abilities and Qualities
Physical engineers must have the following abilities and qualities to be successful:
• Excellent communication skills • Interpersonal skills • Decision-making skills • Analytical problem-solving ability • Leadership ability • Problem-solving and decision-making skill. Abilities and Qualities that can help you in your career:
• Initiative • Driven • Motivated • High self-confidence • Innovation • Creative thinking skills.
5. Physical Engineers' Skills
The following are the skills that physical engineers need:
• Strong technical skills in the design and development of physical systems • A working knowledge of materials technology • An understanding of physics, chemistry, and mathematics • Knowledge of computer-aided engineering (CAE) software • Understanding of design for production techniques • A knowledge of design layouts • A working knowledge of engineering design processes.
Identify your skills and abilities and set a goal for yourself.
The advantages of a career as a physical engineer:
• Diverse job opportunities across all disciplines • Ability to use math and science in solving problems • Job satisfaction from the ability to make a difference in people's lives • High salary compared to other engineering jobs.
Conclusion
A Career as a Physical Engineer can be career-fulfilling, exciting, and lucrative. The job market for Physical Engineers is growing fast, with increasing job openings every year. If you want to get into this profession, the first step is acquiring relevant training and experience.
The field of engineering will always be in demand. Once you enter the field, there is always room for improvement and further growth. Physical engineering is a career that requires a lot of physical skill and patience because most of the time, you will be alone working on some project to be built.
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