How Do I Become a Dimensional Engineer?

Dimensional engineers are professionals who help to develop components of vehicles, which must be designed at certain dimensions to achieve their given purposes. These types of professionals typically work in the automotive industry and thus should enjoy working with vehicles. Employers usually look for job candidates who have completed four years of post-secondary training and have practical experience in this industry. Engineers additionally need to be good at working both independently and on a team, as well as possess strong computer skills for designing products.

An individual who wants to become a dimensional engineer should earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in engineering. Engineering degree programs at colleges and universities require applicants to fill out admissions forms and turn in their results from recently completed standardized exams. In addition, you need to submit your high school transcript as well as your high school diploma or the equivalent certification.

Engineering programs introduce students to the basics of the field, which focus on using science and math to solve everyday problems. For example, if you want to become a dimensional engineer, you must complete advanced courses in the life and physical sciences, as well as in math areas such as calculus. These classes are important because they teach you problem-solving skills, and you will use science and mathematical concepts regularly to help to develop vehicle parts according to building specifications.

Courses that focus specifically on geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) are especially critical for someone who wants to work in the product dimensions aspect of engineering. Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing refers to defining the shape of mechanical parts. This system is valuable because it allows a person who wants to become a dimensional engineer to provide complex geometrical descriptions of vehicle components that otherwise would be difficult to explain. You must master these principles to ensure that product parts fit together precisely if you desire to become a dimensional engineer.

An internship will give an aspiring engineer field experience that will make him or her more attractive to employers as well. You should practice analyzing required details and dimensions of product components, and then create prototypes of your company’s desired products. In addition, you need to make sure that products consistently meet dimensional requirements before placing them on the market, so quality control testing is important. An internship additionally will prepare you to seek industry licensure, which might be required in your area to become a dimensional engineer.