Ceramic engineers work not only with ceramics (as in pottery) but with all nonmetallic, inorganic materials that require high temperatures in their processing. Thus these engineers work on such diverse products as glassware, heat-resistant metals, electronic components, and nuclear reactors. They also design and supervise construction of plants and equipment used in the manufacture of these products.
Ceramic engineers normally specialize in one or more ceramic products-- white ware (porcelain and china or high-voltage electrical insulators); structural materials such as brick and tile; electronic ceramics, glass, or fuel elements for atomic energy, to name a few. Most are employed in the stone, clay, and glass industries. Others work in industries that use ceramic products including the iron and steel, electrical equipment, aerospace, and chemical industries.
Places of employment and working conditions
Ceramic engineers are employed in all areas of the country. Their work locations vary from laboratories to factory production areas, depending on the product and the industry.
Qualifications, education, and training
The ability to think analytically, a capacity for details, and the ability to work as part of a team are all necessary. Good communication skills are important for the ceramic engineer.
Mathematics and the sciences must be emphasized in high school.
A bachelor's degree in engineering is the minimum requirement in this field. In a typical curriculum, the first two years are spent in the study of basic sciences such as physics and chemistry and mathematics, introductory engineering, and some liberal arts courses. The remaining years are usually devoted to specialized engineering courses. Engineering programs can last from four to six years. Those requiring five or six years to complete may award a master's degree or may provide a cooperative plan of study plus practical work experience with a nearby industry.
Because of rapid changes in technology, many ceramic engineers continue their education throughout their careers. A graduate degree is necessary for most teaching and research positions and for many management jobs. Some persons obtain graduate degrees in business administration.
Engineering graduates usually work under the supervision of an experienced engineer or in a company training program until they become acquainted with the requirements of a particular company.
All states require licensing of engineers whose work may affect life, health, or property or who offer their services to the public. Those who are licensed, about one-third of all engineers, are called registered engineers. Requirements include graduation from an accredited engineering school, four years of experience, and an examination.
Potential and advancement
Job opportunities in this field are expected to increase substantially. Nuclear energy, electronics, defense, medical science, pollution control, energy, and conservation will all offer increasing job opportunities for ceramic engineers.
Income
Salaries in private industry begin at $24,000 a year for entry-level ceramic engineers. Experienced ceramic engineers earn annual salaries of about $48,000, and those who are highly qualified earn $80,000 and more.
Additional sources of information
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, New York, NY 10017
American Ceramic Society, Westerville, OH 43081
American Society for Engineering Education, Washington, DC 20036
Junior Engineering Technical Society (JETS), Alexandria, VA 22314
National Society of Professional Engineers, Alexandria, VA 22314
Society of Women Engineers, New York, NY 10017
