This blog post is part of a series dedicated to supporting newcomer populations with specific industry aspirations. Check out Switchboard’s blog post on Supporting Job Seekers with Backgrounds in Aviation to learn how service providers can recertify foreign-trained professionals as pilots or in adjacent aviation careers.
The Appeal of Engineering in the U.S.
Engineering jobs in the U.S. generally offer stability, opportunities for upward mobility, and competitive salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineers earn between $46,910 and $130,850 annually, depending on their discipline. This makes engineering an attractive career for foreign-educated engineers looking to reestablish themselves in the U.S.
Distinguishing between Licensed and Non-Licensed Engineers in the U.S.
In the U.S., there is a significant distinction between licensed Professional Engineers (PE) and non-licensed engineers. A PE license is required for engineers who wish to offer their services directly to the public, sign off on projects, or take legal responsibility for their work. However, not all engineering roles require licensure. Non-licensed engineers can work in various sectors, including manufacturing and research and development, at many private companies. These positions focus more on technical expertise and project-based work rather than legal or public responsibilities. For foreign-trained engineers, pursuing non-licensed engineering roles may provide a quicker pathway to employment, allowing them to leverage their existing skills without the lengthy process of obtaining U.S. licensure.
Service providers can rely on the general information below to help clients understand the recertification process, learn about jobs that do not require recertification, and make a plan that is best for their circumstances and vocational goals.
Understanding the Pathway to Recertification
For foreign-trained engineers, the process of becoming licensed in the U.S. involves several key steps. Below is an overview of the typical pathway:
- Verifying Education and Evaluating Credentials:
- Obtain Necessary Documents: The first step is gathering original academic transcripts, diplomas, and any relevant professional certifications. For a list of the documents required for evaluation organized by country of education, check out the World Education Services’ Required Documents search feature. In most cases, evaluations will require hard copy original documents. If these documents are not in English, translation will be necessary. Unfortunately, in some cases, original documents are lost to war or disaster. In these instances, some clients may benefit from connecting to credential evaluation services that allow for evaluation of digital copies, including those offered by ECE Aid or the WES Gateway Program.
- Credential Evaluation: In most states, clients must have their foreign education credentials evaluated by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). This evaluation compares their foreign education to the U.S. engineering education standard to determine eligibility for further steps. NCEES will assess whether the education aligns with the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) standards, which are necessary for licensure.
2. Meeting Educational Requirements:
- U.S. Education Standards: If the credential evaluation identifies any gaps between the foreign degree and U.S. standards, clients may need to complete additional coursework to meet the requirements. This step is critical, as a degree equivalent to a U.S.-based, ABET-accredited program is typically required to proceed to licensure.
3. Gaining Relevant Work Experience:
- Work Experience: Engineers are generally required to have at least four years of professional experience in their discipline. This experience can be earned abroad, but it must be verified and meet the criteria set by NCEES and state licensing boards. Many jobs that do not require engineering certification including internships, entry-level positions, and the positions described below can count toward this requirement.
4. Passing Required Examinations:
- Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: The first exam is the FE, which assesses the candidate’s knowledge of fundamental engineering principles. Passing this exam qualifies individuals as Engineer Interns (EIs) or Engineers-in-Training (EITs).
- Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: After gaining the necessary work experience, clients must pass the PE exam, which tests competency in their specific engineering discipline.
- English Proficiency: If the client’s education was not conducted in English, they may need to take an English proficiency test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), depending on state requirements.
5. Applying for State Licensure:
- State Licensing Board Application: Once all educational, experiential, and examination requirements are met, clients must apply for licensure through the relevant state licensing board. This involves submitting all documentation, including exam scores, credential evaluations, and proof of experience. Each state has unique requirements, so it’s crucial to consult the specific board for detailed instructions.
6. Maintaining Licensure:
- Continuing Education: After obtaining licensure, engineers must maintain their license by completing continuing education requirements and periodic renewals as mandated by the state board. You can support clients by helping them find resources for ongoing professional development.
Timeline for Licensure
The journey to becoming a licensed PE in the U.S. can take two to four years. This time frame includes fulfilling education and experience requirements, preparing for and passing exams, and obtaining state licensure. Additionally, first–time engineers and foreign–trained engineers who are unable to validate prior work experience with NCEES will need four years of work experience to obtain licensure. You can help clients set realistic timelines and track their progress to ensure they stay on course.
Accessing Engineering-Adjacent Jobs
While full state licensure is required to work as a PE on public contracts or to offer engineering services directly to the public, there are still opportunities for engineers to apply their skills in meaningful ways without holding a PE license. For example, engineers can contribute to projects under the supervision of a licensed PE or work within private companies where official certification is not a requirement. However, those looking to maximize their career potential and access a broader range of opportunities may eventually pursue licensure. Additionally, foreign-trained engineers may find returning to school impractical due to financial constraints, time commitments, or other personal circumstances. Even without a PE license, engineers possess valuable skills that are highly sought after in various roles across industries. The following engineering-adjacent careers provide avenues for foreign-trained engineers to utilize their expertise while potentially paving the way for future licensure:
Project Coordinators: These roles involve managing project timelines, budgets, and communication between teams. Engineers’ organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial in these positions.
- Quality Control Specialists: These professionals ensure products meet certain standards and specifications. Engineers are trained to think methodically and uphold rigorous quality standards to build safe and effective products, systems, and public works. This training often makes them ideal candidates for these roles.
- Technical Sales Engineers: Engineers can often transition into sales roles that require in-depth technical knowledge. Technical sales engineers help sell complex products and services by explaining the benefits and applications to potential customers.
- CAD Technicians: Engineers are usually required to learn basic drafting skills, and most can transfer these design skills into computer-aided design (CAD) roles. Check for client proficiency in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, which are commonly used in various engineering disciplines and may help clients land a position as a CAD technician.
Industry Spotlight: Green Energy
As the green energy sector continues to grow, it offers a promising avenue for foreign- trained engineers. Positions in this field, including renewable energy project managers, energy auditors, and sustainability consultants, allow engineers to apply their skills to environmentally-focused projects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the renewable energy sector is expected to grow significantly, with jobs in wind turbine service and solar energy installation projected to increase by more than 50% over the next decade. This makes green energy a compelling option for engineers looking to contribute to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
Conclusion
Helping foreign-trained engineers navigate the U.S. professional licensure process requires a detailed understanding of educational, experiential, and examination requirements. While the path to becoming a licensed PE can be lengthy, many non-licensed engineering roles offer immediate opportunities for clients to apply transferrable skills and experience. Service providers can play a crucial role in helping clients make informed decisions about their career paths and guiding them through the complex steps of recertification or alternative job options.
