Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineering teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in the application of physical laws and engineering principles used to develop machines, materials, instruments, and processes. They teach specialized fields such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Most work in academic settings on college campuses.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against engineering teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing and delivering lectures to undergraduate and graduate students, grading assignments and exams, and holding office hours to answer student questions. Engineering teachers develop course materials and lab experiments that connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications. They also conduct their own research, write grant proposals, attend department meetings, and may supervise student projects or capstone work.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIR. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely excel in this role if you enjoy investigating technical problems and explaining complex systems to others. You're drawn to both the analytical side of engineering and the social aspect of teaching, and you're comfortable pursuing advanced education and staying current with developments in your engineering specialty.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $104,920 | $137,280 | $189,630 | 2,720 |
| Illinois | $100,610 | $135,430 | $176,020 | 1,040 |
| Massachusetts | $100,880 | $134,850 | $177,760 | 2,610 |
| Georgia | $109,100 | $131,260 | $165,570 | 700 |
| Delaware | $103,740 | $130,730 | $166,730 | 210 |
| Michigan | $95,170 | $127,230 | $168,020 | 2,120 |
| New Hampshire | $100,010 | $127,070 | $160,190 | 170 |
| Louisiana | $100,850 | $125,930 | $131,560 | 300 |
| Connecticut | $85,510 | $124,350 | $131,980 | 640 |
| Texas | $75,490 | $123,280 | $167,360 | 4,080 |
| Virginia | $85,580 | $121,880 | $158,540 | 1,070 |
| Washington | $83,730 | $119,960 | $162,230 | 820 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- LIUNA Instructor Certification — LIUNA Training & Education
- Value Methodology Associate Certification (VMA) — Society of American Value Engineers
- Fluid Power Accredited Instructor — International Fluid Power Society
- Certified Value Specialist (CVS) — Society of American Value Engineers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against engineering teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.