A guide to engineering careers

Engineering is a dynamic and diverse field, offering a wide range of types of engineering jobs that shape the world around us. From designing machines to building cities, powering the digital age, and transforming materials into innovative solutions, there are many kinds of engineering to explore.

But with so many engineering career pathways available, how do you choose the one that fits you best?

This guide breaks down the most popular types of engineering—mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and chemical engineering—to help you understand the different occupations in engineering and discover your ideal path. Plus, hear how Shell Eco-marathon participants found their passion through real-world experience.

What Is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile types of engineering careers. Mechanical engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems used in industries like automotive, aerospace, robotics, and energy.

Is This Your Engineering Path?

You might be suited for this field if you:

• Enjoy solving technical problems
• Are curious about how machines work
• Excel in math, physics, and hands-on projects

Education & Career Opportunities for Engineers

To pursue this engineering career pathway, you’ll typically need a degree in mechanical engineering. Career options include:

• Product design engineer
• Robotics engineer
• Systems analyst
• Research and development specialist
• Project manager

Challenges & Rewards

Mechanical engineers face complex problem-solving and long project timelines, but they also enjoy:

• High demand across industries
• Opportunities to innovate
• Strong salary prospects

Industry Trends

Emerging technologies like automation, renewable energy, and innovative design approaches are reshaping this field, making it one of the most future-ready careers in the engineering field.

What Is Civil Engineering?

Civil engineering focuses on designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. It’s one of the most impactful types of engineering jobs, shaping the environments we live in.

Is This the Right Kind of Engineering for You?

You may be a good fit if you:

• Are interested in construction and urban planning
• Enjoy working on large-scale projects
• Have strengths in math, problem-solving, and environmental awareness

Education & Engineer Pathways

A degree in civil engineering and professional licensure are typically required. Career paths include:

• Structural engineer
• Environmental engineer
• Urban planner
• Geotechnical engineer

Real-World Work

Civil engineers often work outdoors and in teams, managing long-term projects and balancing cost, safety, and sustainability.

Future Outlook

With the rise of smart infrastructure and climate-resilient design, civil engineering is evolving rapidly—offering exciting career opportunities for engineers who want to make a lasting impact.

What Is Electrical Engineering?

Electrical engineering involves designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and components. It plays a crucial role in sectors like telecommunications, power generation, electronics, and renewable energy.

Is This Your Engineering Pathway?

You might thrive in this field if you:

• Love working with circuits and devices
• Are passionate about math and physics
• Enjoy solving technical challenges

Education & Career Paths

A degree in electrical engineering is essential, along with certifications for specialized roles. Career options include:

• Power systems engineer
• Control systems engineer
• Telecommunications specialist
• Electronics designer

Work Environment

Electrical engineers balance hands-on work with computer-based design and often collaborate with other engineering disciplines.

Future Trends

Smart grids, electric vehicles, and automation are transforming the field, creating new engineering career pathways in a tech-driven world.

What Is Chemical Engineering?

Chemical engineering focuses on designing processes that convert raw materials into valuable products like fuels, pharmaceuticals, food, and chemicals. It’s one of the most interdisciplinary types of engineering.

Is This the Right Kind of Engineering for You?

You may be a good fit if you:

• Have a strong background in chemistry, math, and physics
• Enjoy optimizing industrial processes
• Are passionate about sustainability

Education & Career Options

A degree in chemical engineering is required, with career paths in:

• Petrochemicals
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food and beverage production
• Environmental engineering
• Biotechnology

Daily Work & Responsibilities

Chemical engineers work in labs, plants, or offices to design and improve processes, test products, ensure safety, and reduce waste.

Future of the Field

With growing demand for lower-carbon manufacturing, energy storage, and carbon capture, chemical engineering offers some of the most innovative careers in the engineering field today.

Many students enter Shell Eco-marathon unsure of what are different kinds of engineers or which engineering path to pursue. Through hands-on experience—designing energy-efficient vehicles, solving real-world problems, and collaborating with peers—they discover their strengths and passions.

These stories highlight how Shell Eco-marathon helps young innovators explore different occupations in engineering and find their ideal engineer pathways.

At Shell, engineering isn’t just a career—it’s a chance to shape the future of energy. Through the globally recognised Shell Graduate Programme, you’ll find a Technical path designed specifically for engineering graduates, offering the tools, experiences, and support to help you power your progress from day one.

The Shell Graduate Programme is a structured development opportunity and an accelerated pathway that aims to develop future leaders of Shell. Whether your background is in mechanical, electrical, chemical, or civil engineering, you will have the opportunity to work at the forefront of technology, trends, and practices to grow the skills you need to get—and stay—ahead.

The scale and diversity of our business mean you can interact with a global network of experienced colleagues and access deep technical expertise across a wide range of fields, business models, and cultures—collaborating directly and overcoming challenges together.

Many Shell Eco-marathon participants have gone on to join Shell, turning their competition experience into enriching roles across the business. If you're looking to grow, innovate, and make a difference, Shell is a great place to begin your journey and power your progress.