A plumbing engineer designs or tests systems that pipe fluids or gases. He typically works with water and heating equipment or creates removal systems that drain or vacuum material away. The engineer’s projects vary in size and range from plumbing for a house to the large infrastructure of a stadium or water recycling center.

Before College

Plan to attend at least four years of college to receive a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. An interest in construction work and water systems will facilitate absorbing the class material. Be ready to learn a lot about state and government regulations about construction work.

Use the search tool on the website abet.org that allows you to find all the accredited engineering programs. Identify the schools that provide mechanical engineering programs.

Apply to the engineering schools that appeal to your preferences.

In College

Add to the mandatory course work some electives that include fluid mechanics and new energy technologies. These classes will add an additional dimension that looks attractive to companies looking for entry-level plumbing engineers.

Select your class assignments with the profession of plumbing engineer in mind. Seek studies that analyze fluid systems and solve energy or hydraulic problems.

Pursue internships in companies that are in the construction or water and energy management business.

Join networking events in the plumbing industry. Update your personal directory of contacts as you attend more professional gatherings.

Upon Graduation

Design a resume that gives center stage to the internships and class work that you performed in plumbing engineering.

Contact all the managers who gave you internships and tell them that you are looking for a plumbing engineering position. Ask them for suggestions of companies and names.

Meet with professors and professionals in the plumbing engineering industry. Ask them to look on your behalf for entry-level positions in this field.