Ceramic Engineer

The following responsibilities are common for individuals pursing Ceramic Engineering:

• Conducts research, designs machinery and tools, develops processing techniques and tests the heat resistance of the materials.
• Analyzes test results to determine strength combinations of new products and materials and improve old materials
• Researches different methods of  painting, forming and firing the clay and ceramic materials
• Designs equipment for the forming and firing of the ceramic materials

A Day In The Life

Ceramic Engineers specialize in the design and development of ceramic materials in industrial and commercial use.

The term ceramics engineer is a very broad field.  Various industries use ceramics, including dentistry, electronics, telecommunications, aeronautics physics and chemistry.

They develop new ceramic materials from materials found in the Earth.  Some engineers will enhance upon the technology of existing ceramic materials by improving heat and fire resistance.  Many engineers are also involved in production.  They direct the process of the organic and inorganic materials used to make the ceramics.  They also design and develop the kilns and other tools and equipment used for ceramic manufacturing.

Typical Work Schedule

They work a 40 hour work week mostly in office settings or laboratories.

Projected Job Growth

Ceramic engineers are always needed in electronics and biotechnology.  Growth should be especially rapid for engineers in the nano-technology field.

Typical Employers

Most Ceramic Engineers are employed in the stone, glass or clay industries.  While others work in industries that use ceramics like aerospace, iron, steel and chemical industries.  Some engineers teach and do research for the government or universities.