Service expertise including strong product familiarity, creativity, and problem-solving skills are all good skills for a field engineer to develop. Since field engineers typically work directly with clients, it can be helpful to also have strong communication skills. Good fine motor skills and dexterity are often required.
There are a number of training programs, degrees and apprenticeships that a potential field engineer can seek. An average field engineer usually learns through hands-on experience, but formal training in the specialized field is often required, or at least desirable, depending on the company. These fields can span a wide variety of subjects including utilities, construction, engineering, pest control, plumbing, computer programming, electronics, and many other areas.
A field engineer's daily schedule depends on the person's field, company, and willingness to travel. Some field engineers may travel a day or more to repair specialized equipment, such as a specific piece of farm equipment, while others can perform tasks in their own neighborhood. A field engineer who works for a company can work a standard day schedule, while a self-employed engineer can work from his or her own home and create his or her own flexible schedule.
While working with a team may be a requirement, many field engineers work alone. Tools, transportation and a communication device such as a cell phone or pager may or may not be provided depending on the company. For example, field engineers in the construction industry are often required to provide their own tools and transportation, while engineers in the cable industry are more likely to have a commercial vehicle and tools to use. Some companies also offer compensation for mileage on the job.
Continuing education may be required, especially if the business is technology based. As products and services change, field technicians must be ready to learn and adapt to these changes. Education can be paid for by the company.
