Details Report

Updated 2006

Details Report for:
17-2131.00 - Materials Engineers

Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials.

Sample of reported job titles: Materials Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Materials Research Engineer, Metallurgist, Process Engineer, Research Engineer, Test Engineer, Materials and Processes Manager, Materials Branch Chief, Materials Development Engineer

View report: Summary Details Custom

Tasks Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance	Category	Task
72	Core	Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results in order to determine causes of problems and develop solutions.
63	Core	Monitor material performance and evaluate material deterioration.
57	Core	Supervise the work of technologists, technicians and other engineers and scientists.
57	Core	Design and direct the testing and/or control of processing procedures.
57	Core	Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
55	Core	Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products in order to ensure their quality.
54	Core	Perform managerial functions such as preparing proposals and budgets, analyzing labor costs, and writing reports.
54	Core	Solve problems in a number of engineering fields, such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, nuclear and aerospace.
53	Core	Plan and evaluate new projects, consulting with other engineers and corporate executives as necessary.
64	Supplemental	Review new product plans and make recommendations for material selection based on design objectives, such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.
62	Supplemental	Design processing plants and equipment.
59	Supplemental	Modify properties of metal alloys, using thermal and mechanical treatments.
58	Supplemental	Guide technical staff engaged in developing materials for specific uses in projected products or devices.
58	Supplemental	Plan and implement laboratory operations for the purpose of developing material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards.
56	Supplemental	Determine appropriate methods for fabricating and joining materials.
53	Supplemental	Conduct training sessions on new material products, applications, or manufacturing methods for customers and their employees.
49	Supplemental	Supervise production and testing processes in industrial settings such as metal refining facilities, smelting or foundry operations, or non-metallic materials production operations.
48	Supplemental	Write for technical magazines, journals, and trade association publications.
47	Supplemental	Replicate the characteristics of materials and their components with computers.
33	Supplemental	Teach in colleges and universities.

Tools & Technology Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Tools used in this occupation:

Calorimeters — Adiabatic bomb calorimeters; Differential scanning calorimeters

Concrete or cement testing instruments — Concrete test hammers; Freeze-thaw test units; Stabilometers

High vacuum combustion apparatus — Microwave sintering furnaces; Plasma-arc furnaces; Rotating furnaces

Impact testers — Charpy impact testers; Drop weight impact towers

Laboratory blenders or emulsifiers — Hot blenders; Laboratory blenders; Slurry blenders

Laboratory crushers or pulverizers — Laboratory pulverizers; Laboratory sample splitters; Sample presses

Laboratory mills — Ball mills; Jar mills; Rod mills

Laboratory separators — Electrostatic separators; High tension separators; Isodynamic separators; Magnetic separators

Power saws — Band saws; Masonry cutters; Water-cooled saws

Twin screw extruder — Balling drums; Extruding machines; Twin-screw extruders

Technology used in this occupation:

Analytical or scientific software — ANSYS Multiphysics; Digital image correlation DIC software; Fault detection isolation and recovery FDIR software; Image analysis systems

Computer aided design CAD software — Autodesk AutoCAD; PTC Pro/ENGINEER

Computer aided manufacturing CAM software — Fused deposition modeling FDM rapid prototyping systems; Stereolithography SLA rapid prototyping systems

Data base user interface and query software — Data entry software; MTS Testworks; QMC CM4D

Development environment software — Formula translation/translator FORTRAN; Microsoft Visual Basic; National Instruments LabVIEW

Graphics or photo imaging software — Graphics software; Microsoft Office Visio

Object or component oriented development software — C++; Microsoft Visual Basic.NET

Office suite software — Microsoft Office

Presentation software — Microsoft PowerPoint

Word processing software — Microsoft Word

See all 133 T2 categories

Knowledge Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Knowledge
81		Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
76		Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
60		English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
56		Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
56		Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
48		Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
46		Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
43		Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
37		Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
37		Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
34		Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
33		Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
26		Clerical — Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
24		Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
24		Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
20		Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
20		Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
18		Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
17		Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
17		Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
11		Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
11		Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
8		Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
7		Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
6		Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
6		Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
5		History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
4		Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
3		Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
3		Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
1		Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
0		Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
0		Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Skills Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Skill
86		Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
82		Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
82		Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
78		Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
75		Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
70		Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
69		Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
67		Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
66		Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
65		Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
64		Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
63		Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
58		Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
57		Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
57		Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
56		Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
55		Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
53		Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
52		Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
51		Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
51		Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
46		Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
43		Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
42		Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
41		Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
40		Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
39		Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
39		Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
38		Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
31		Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
30		Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
30		Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
29		Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
21		Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
14		Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

Abilities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Ability
78		Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
78		Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
75		Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
75		Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
75		Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
72		Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
72		Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
66		Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
66		Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
60		Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
60		Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
60		Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
56		Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
56		Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
53		Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
53		Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
50		Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
50		Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50		Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
50		Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
47		Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
41		Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
41		Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
38		Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
35		Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
31		Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
31		Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
28		Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
28		Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
25		Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
25		Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing.
22		Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
22		Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
19		Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
16		Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
13		Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
10		Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
6		Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
0		Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
0		Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
0		Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
0		Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
0		Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of glare or bright lighting.
0		Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
0		Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
0		Night Vision — The ability to see under low light conditions.
0		Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
0		Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
0		Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
0		Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
0		Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
0		Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Activity
88		Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. develop or maintain databases use computer aided drafting or design software for design, drafting, modeling, or other engineering tasks use computers to enter, access or retrieve data use relational database software use spreadsheet software use word processing or desktop publishing software
85		Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. analyze engineering design problems analyze engineering test data analyze project proposal to determine feasibility, cost, or time analyze scientific research data or investigative findings analyze technical data, designs, or preliminary specifications analyze test data conduct analyses to determine physical properties of materials conduct laboratory research or experiments conduct standardized qualitative laboratory analyses conduct standardized quantitative laboratory analyses determine factors affecting production processes evaluate costs of engineering projects evaluate engineering data evaluate manufacturing or processing systems evaluate material specifications perform statistical analysis in physical science or geological research provide analytical assessment of engineering data test materials or solutions
85		Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. collect scientific or technical data read blueprints read technical drawings study structure or properties of submicroscopic matter
77		Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. resolve engineering or science problems use intuitive judgment for engineering analyses
76		Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. compile numerical or statistical data develop tables depicting data
75		Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
73		Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. create mathematical or statistical diagrams or charts design electronic equipment design engineered systems design machines design manufacturing processes or methods design waste recovery methods improve test devices or techniques in manufacturing, industrial or engineering setting
70		Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. confer with engineering, technical or manufacturing personnel confer with research personnel
69		Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. follow manufacturing methods or techniques follow safe waste disposal procedures follow statistical process control procedures use chemical testing or analysis procedures use drafting or mechanical drawing techniques use government regulations use hazardous materials information use knowledge of investigation techniques use knowledge of materials testing procedures use library or online Internet research techniques use long or short term production planning techniques use mathematical or statistical methods to identify or analyze problems use metal processing methodology use physical science research techniques use pollution control techniques use project management techniques use quality assurance techniques use quantitative research methods use research methodology procedures within manufacturing or commerce use robotics systems technology use scientific research methodology use technical information in manufacturing or industrial activities use technical regulations for engineering problems
68		Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. examine engineering documents for completeness or accuracy
68		Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. recognize characteristics of alloys recognize characteristics of metals understand engineering data or reports understand properties of gases or liquids
66		Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
65		Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. work as a team member
65		Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
59		Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. explain complex mathematical information
58		Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used. calculate engineering specifications draw prototypes, plans, or maps to scale write product performance requirements
58		Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. plan testing of engineering methods
57		Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. communicate technical information confer with scientists confer with vendors
57		Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
57		Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
55		Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics. advise clients or customers advise clients regarding engineering problems recommend materials for products
53		Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity. estimate cost for engineering projects estimate materials or labor requirements
51		Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them. develop plans for programs or projects develop policies, procedures, methods, or standards write business project or bid proposals
50		Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members. lead teams in engineering projects
48		Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
47		Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. coordinate engineering project activities coordinate production materials, activities or processes direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
47		Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
42		Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
41		Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
40		Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. delegate authority for engineering activities
39		Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
38		Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
33		Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork. prepare reports prepare technical reports or related documentation
32		Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
32		Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles. test equipment as part of engineering projects or processes
31		Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
25		Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
24		Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
23		Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
17		Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
15		Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.

Work Context Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Context		Work Context
100		Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
100		Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
100		Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
98		Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
95		Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
94		Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
92		Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
90		Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
84		Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
83		Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
83		Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
80		Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
72		Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
69		Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
68		Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
68		Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
62		Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
52		Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
51		Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
50		Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
50		Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
50		Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
47		Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
47		Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
43		Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
42		Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
42		Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
42		Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
41		Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
40		Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
39		Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
37		Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
37		Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
33		Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
30		In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
27		Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
23		Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
18		Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
16		Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
13		Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
12		Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
12		Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
11		Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
9		Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
9		Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
9		Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
7		Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
6		Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
5		Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
4		Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
1		Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
0		Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
0		Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
0		Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?
0		In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
0		Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
0		Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?

Job Zone Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Component	Description
Title	Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Overall Experience	A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Job Training	Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Job Zone Examples	Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include accountants, human resource managers, computer programmers, teachers, chemists, and police detectives.

SVP Range	(7.0 to < 8.0)

Education	Most of these occupations require a four - year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

There are 2 recognized apprenticeable specialties associated with this occupation:
Foundry Metallurgist; Materials Engineer

To learn about specific apprenticeship opportunities, please consult the U.S. Department of Labor State Apprenticeship Information website.

For general information about apprenticeships, training, and partnerships with business, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship website.

Interests Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Occupational Interest		Interest
83		Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
78		Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
39		Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
28		Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
28		Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
17		Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Work Styles Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Importance		Work Style
84		Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
83		Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
83		Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
80		Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
70		Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
67		Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
67		Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
67		Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
64		Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
63		Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
61		Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
55		Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
53		Self Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
51		Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
46		Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
33		Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

Work Values Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Extent		Work Value
75		Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employs to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
73		Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
65		Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
55		Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
50		Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
48		Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

Work Needs Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Extent		Work Need
78		Ability Utilization — Workers on this job make use of their individual abilities.
75		Autonomy — Workers on this job plan their work with little supervision.
75		Creativity — Workers on this job try out their own ideas.
75		Moral Values — Workers on this job are never pressured to do things that go against their sense of right and wrong.
75		Responsibility — Workers on this job make decisions on their own.
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Details Report for: 17-2131.00 - Materials Engineers