Can you get a job with an associate's in engineering?

People with associate's degrees instead work as engineering technicians. It is important to note that both paths lead to a good job. Engineers who apply science and mathematical principles to design solutions to real-world problems in a variety of disciplines earn a median annual wage of $92,000.

Meanwhile, engineering technicians who perform the technical job of installing, testing, maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting technology created by engineers can expect a median salary from $50,000 to $70,000 depending on discipline,

Additionally, the career opportunities for engineering technicians with an associate's degree are growing, especially for certain disciplines of engineering technology. The fastest-growing branch of engineering technology is environmental engineering. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects environmental engineering technology to rise by 13%.

On top of the traditional job roles, having an associate's degree in engineering also presents the opportunity to branch out into related fields. For instance, you may find work as a technical sales engineer, where you'll leverage your technical knowledge to help businesses understand the benefits and uses of complex engineering products or services.

Engineering project management is another field where your associate's degree can be beneficial. In this role, you would oversee engineering projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

With additional certification, you can become a technical or vocational teacher at high schools or community colleges, sharing your knowledge and passion for engineering with students.

It's also important to note that while an associate's degree can lead to a rewarding career, it can also serve as a stepping stone towards obtaining a bachelor's degree in engineering if you decide to pursue further education. Many universities offer programs designed for students transferring from two-year colleges so that they can complete their bachelor's degree in two additional years of full-time study.

While an associate's degree in engineering may not qualify you to work as a fully licensed engineer, it does open doors to numerous fulfilling careers within and related to the field of engineering. It's about finding the path that aligns with your interests and long-term career goals.