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General Engineer

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

General engineers design, develop, and manage various projects. They require strong problem-solving and technical skills to oversee construction and infrastructure projects.

Average Salary

₹6,00,000

Growth

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Home/Careers/engineering and technical fields/general engineer
Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a General Engineer

A general engineer requires a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and engineering principles. Here's a detailed breakdown:

  • Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in engineering is essential. Common fields include civil, mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized engineering body.
  • Core Coursework: Expect to study calculus, differential equations, physics, chemistry, materials science, and computer programming.
  • Specialized Courses: Depending on the specific area of general engineering, coursework may include thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, structural analysis, and circuit theory.
  • Practical Experience: Internships or co-op programs are highly recommended to gain hands-on experience. Many employers prefer candidates with practical experience.
  • Master's Degree (Optional): A master's degree can provide advanced knowledge and skills, leading to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Specializations can include engineering management or a specific engineering discipline.
  • Certifications and Licenses: Professional Engineer (PE) licensure may be required for certain roles, especially those involving public safety. This typically requires passing an exam and having several years of experience.
  • Continuous Learning: Engineering is a constantly evolving field. Continuing education through workshops, conferences, and online courses is crucial to stay updated with the latest technologies and practices.
  • Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are vital. Proficiency in CAD software and other engineering tools is also important.
  • Entrance Exams: In India, students often need to clear entrance exams like JEE Main or JEE Advanced to get into top engineering colleges.
  • Project Work: Focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to apply engineering principles to real-world problems. This is highly valued by employers.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges in India for General Engineering

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): IITs are premier engineering institutes in India. IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Kharagpur are consistently ranked among the top engineering colleges.
  • National Institutes of Technology (NITs): NITs are another group of top engineering colleges. NIT Trichy, NIT Warangal, NIT Surathkal, and NIT Rourkela are highly regarded.
  • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS): BITS Pilani, BITS Goa, and BITS Hyderabad are well-reputed private engineering institutes.
  • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT): VIT Vellore is a leading private engineering college known for its quality education and infrastructure.
  • SRM Institute of Science and Technology: SRM Chennai is another popular private engineering college offering a wide range of engineering programs.
  • Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST), Shibpur: IIEST Shibpur is a prestigious engineering institute with a long history.
  • Jadavpur University: Jadavpur University in Kolkata is known for its strong engineering programs.
  • Delhi Technological University (DTU): DTU is a well-regarded engineering college in Delhi.
  • Anna University: Anna University in Chennai offers various engineering programs and is affiliated with many engineering colleges in Tamil Nadu.

These colleges offer undergraduate (B.Tech/B.E.) and postgraduate (M.Tech/M.E.) programs in various engineering disciplines. Admission to these colleges is typically based on entrance exams like JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, and state-level engineering entrance exams.

Fees

The fees for engineering courses in India can vary significantly based on the type of institution:

  • Government Colleges (IITs, NITs):
    • Tuition Fees: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.
    • Total Fees: ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 for the entire course.
  • Government-Funded Institutes (IIITs):
    • Tuition Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
    • Total Fees: ₹2,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 for the entire course.
  • Private Engineering Colleges:
    • Tuition Fees: ₹80,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year.
    • Total Fees: ₹4,00,000 to ₹16,00,000 for the entire course.
  • Deemed Universities:
    • Tuition Fees: ₹1,50,000 to ₹5,00,000 per year.
    • Total Fees: ₹6,00,000 to ₹20,00,000 for the entire course.

These figures are approximate and can vary. Government colleges generally have lower fees due to subsidies. Private colleges and deemed universities tend to have higher fees, but they may also offer better infrastructure and resources. Additionally, hostel fees, mess charges, and other expenses need to be considered.

Related Exams

To pursue a career as a General Engineer in India, several entrance exams can pave the way to top engineering colleges:

  • JEE Main: This is the primary entrance exam for admission to undergraduate engineering programs like B.Tech/B.E. at NITs, IIITs, and other government-funded engineering institutes.
  • JEE Advanced: If you aim for IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology), you need to qualify JEE Main and then appear for JEE Advanced. It tests problem-solving skills and conceptual understanding.
  • State-Level Engineering Entrance Exams: Many states conduct their own engineering entrance exams for admissions to state government and private engineering colleges. Examples include MHT CET (Maharashtra), WBJEE (West Bengal), and KEAM (Kerala).
  • BITSAT: Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) conducts its own entrance exam, BITSAT, for admissions to its campuses in Pilani, Goa, and Hyderabad.
  • VITEEE: Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) conducts VITEEE for admissions to its B.Tech programs.
  • SRMJEE: SRM Institute of Science and Technology conducts SRMJEE for admissions to its engineering programs.
  • GATE: For postgraduate studies (M.Tech) after completing your bachelor's degree, the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is essential. It's also considered by some PSUs (Public Sector Undertakings) for recruitment.

These exams typically assess your knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Preparing thoroughly with a focus on conceptual clarity and problem-solving is crucial for success.

Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Diverse skill set applicable to various industries.
  2. High demand for versatile engineering professionals.
  3. Opportunity to work on varied and challenging projects.
  4. Potential for career advancement into management roles.
  5. Competitive salary and benefits packages.
  6. Chance to innovate and improve existing systems.
  7. Contribution to infrastructure and technological development.
  8. Intellectually stimulating and rewarding career.
  9. Global opportunities for employment and collaboration.
  10. Continuous learning and professional growth.

Cons

  1. High level of responsibility and accountability.
  2. Demanding work hours and potential for stress.
  3. Need to stay updated with technological advancements.
  4. Competition for top positions can be intense.
  5. Projects can be complex and require meticulous attention.
  6. Potential for travel to remote or challenging locations.
  7. Ethical considerations and adherence to regulations.
  8. Risk of project delays and budget constraints.
  9. Exposure to hazardous environments in some industries.
  10. Constant pressure to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.