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Many engineers develop new products. During this
process, they consider several factors. For example, in
developing an industrial robot, engineers precisely specify the
functional requirements; design and test the robot’s components;
integrate the components to produce the final design; and
evaluate the design’s overall effectiveness, cost, reliability,
and safety. This process applies to the development of many
different products, such as chemicals, computers, power plants,
helicopters, and toys.
In addition to
design and development, many engineers work in testing,
production, or maintenance. These engineers supervise production
in factories, determine the causes of component failure, and
test manufactured products to maintain quality. They also
estimate the time and cost to complete projects. Supervisory
engineers are responsible for major components or entire
projects.
Engineers use computers extensively to produce
and analyze designs; to simulate and test how a machine,
structure, or system operates; to generate specifications for
parts; and to monitor product quality and control process
efficiency. Nanotechnology, which involves the creation of
high-performance materials and components by integrating atoms
and molecules, also is introducing entirely new principles to
the design process.
Professional Industry Associations:
Many
association Web sites have job postings. They may also contain
lists of potential employers, chapter meetings where you can
connect with a potential coworker or employer, and news about
your profession or industry so you can stay "current" even if
you are not employed.
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