Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of engineering and/or research and development teams and support technicians. As its name implies, this career fits between engineering and personnel management. To perform these tasks, it is helpful to have both an engineering degree, and experience working with a team. These people work with engineers to make sure the work gets done, but also work with administration to advocate for their team, and make sure expectations are realistic. 

Make a Difference

A Typical Day

  • Manage the coordination and overall integration of technical activities on engineering projects.
  • Direct, review, or approve project design changes.
  • Consult or negotiate with clients to prepare project specifications.
  • Prepare budgets, bids, or contracts.
  • Present and explain proposals, reports, or findings to clients.
 

Recommended Credentials

Bachelor's or master's degree, 5+ years of work experience 

Education & Training

Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.

 

Northwest Lower Michigan

 

Engineering Programs 
— Northwestern Michigan College

Elsewhere in Michigan

 

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Master's in Engineering Management
— Michigan Technological University (MTU)

Explore This Career

Try it before you buy it!

  • Leadership role in project, club, production, etc.
  • Rotary Interact Program
  • Start a business
  • Explore opportunities in your community

The Local Advantage Learning Pathway

Pathway 1

Tour the Engineering Academy at Northwest Ed's Career Tech Center

Pathway 2

Explore Engineering at NMC. Fulfill your general requirements before you transfer.

Pathway 3

Transfer to a 4-year university to complete your general studies.

Consider post-graduate education to advance your career.

Master's in Engineering Management at MTU

 

Sample Employers in Our Region

Click the logos below to learn more.

TIP

Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.

 

Sample Job Titles...

  • Supervisor
  • Manager
  • Senior Manager
  • Director
 

Hear It From The Pros

10-Year Job Growth Projections

0%
10-County Region
1%
Michigan
3%
U.S.

Employed Regionally

11380
In 2021

Wage Range & Median Michigan

$97,570
$128,920 
$195,850

Annual Hires Regionally

0
In 2021

Sample Career Pathways

Click to download a PDF of this diagram.

Diagram of Paths To and From Other Careers for Engineering Manager

Real World Career Pathways

It doesn't have to be a straight shot! Hear from people who have taken unique pathways.