What tasks does an engineer do?

What does a doctor do? And a hairdresser? What are the daily tasks of a construction worker? Most people can easily answer these questions or have a vague idea, as everyone has had the opportunity to deal with one of these people in their workplace at some point in their lives. However, there are also lesser-known professions where the answer to this question is much more difficult: what does an SEO specialist, an agile coach and an engineer do? 

Engineers have become indispensable in many areas of the modern economy, but not everyone can answer the question "What are the daily tasks of an engineer?" with certainty. But we have to be fair - it's easy to get lost, especially when it comes to the engineering profession, especially as there are so many different types of engineers. 

To make a long story short: Engineers ensure that machines work efficiently, products are improved and new technologies are developed. You can find the long explanation of what exactly that means here.

In this article, we'll give you an overview of the different daily tasks of an engineer, the different industries engineers work in and how you can find your dream job with WorkerHero.

Tasks of an engineer

The activities of an engineer depend heavily on the respective industry and specialization. Here are some general tasks that engineers perform in their day-to-day work:

• Planning and development: Engineers are often involved in the development of new products or systems. They create technical plans, calculate necessary materials and ensure that projects are implemented within budget and on time.
• Research and innovation: Engineers investigate new technologies and processes in order to improve existing systems or find completely new solutions. Various test set-ups, laboratory tests and computer simulations are used here.
• Project management: Many engineers take on leading roles in projects, monitor progress and coordinate teams. From building a skyscraper to developing your favorite brand's new sports car, it's all here.
• Quality control: Another important aspect is the control of production processes to ensure that products meet quality standards.
• Consulting and training: Engineers often also work as consultants, helping companies to overcome technical challenges and training employees in the use of new systems.

That sounds a bit general, doesn't it? As with most professions, the industry has a big impact on an engineer's daily tasks. Therefore, in the following article, we will try to give a better overview of each industry (and the type of technical specialization).

Special activities in various industries

As I said, the tasks of an engineer vary greatly depending on the field. Here you can get an overview of typical activities in various engineering professions:

• Mechanical Engineer Tasks:
  • Construction and maintenance of machines and production facilities
  • Optimization of manufacturing processes
  • Analysis and improvement of machine components
• Electrical Engineer Tasks:
  • Development of electrical systems and devices
  • Ensuring the safety and efficiency of electricity grids
  • Implementation of automation solutions
• Civil Engineer Tasks:
  • Planning and monitoring of construction projects
  • Creation of construction plans and static calculations
  • Checking construction sites for compliance with safety regulations

The variety of activities shows that engineers are needed in almost every industry - from the automotive industry to the energy industry and aviation.

What does an engineer earn?

We know we're repeating ourselves a little, but the salary of an engineer depends heavily on the industry - and of course also on experience and the respective field of work. According to the StepStone Salary Report 2023 and the VDI Salary Study, the average salary of an engineer in Germany is between 55,000 and 80,000 euros per year. In special industries such as automation technology or energy supply, salaries can even exceed 100,000 euros (Stepstone, 2024).

Mechanical engineers earn on average between 46,300 euros and 65,000 euros per year. With increasing experience and in managerial positions, salaries of up to 70,000 euros are possible, especially in sectors such as electrical engineering or mechanical and plant engineering. Electrical engineers can expect an annual income of 60,000 to 80,000 euros (up to 100,000 possible in the chemical industry!). All salary data from Stepstone 2024.

Salaries for engineers are above the national average, particularly in southern Germany, for example in Bavaria or Baden-Württemberg - the front-runner is Baden-Württemberg with an average of 5,597 euros per month (Gehalt.de). In the new federal states, on the other hand, they are often somewhat lower. The size of the company also makes a big difference - larger companies pay significantly higher salaries than smaller companies.

When negotiating salaries, engineers should always refer to current data, for example from the VDI report or the StepStone salary report, in order to have realistic expectations and get the best out of the negotiations.

Find jobs as an engineer with WorkerHero

Even though WorkerHero mainly offers jobs for skilled workers in the industrial sector, you can still find some exciting vacancies for engineers, for example as a mechanical engineer or electrical engineer. If you're looking for a change in the engineering industry or a new career path, it's worth checking WorkerHero regularly.

If, however, a profession such as machine operator, electrician or craftsman is an option for you, then you've come to the right place! WorkerHero also offers valuable information to help you find your way around Germany, for example if you want to work in Germany as an EU citizen or if you need a work visa in Germany for non-EU citizens.

If you are also considering changing jobs at 40, you will also find opportunities and possibilities for a successful new start with us. Our aim is not only to support you in your job search, but also to help you integrate successfully into the German job market.