Fuel Cell Engineers
Fuel cell engineers design, build, and test fuel cell components and systems that convert chemical energy into electricity. They work on applications including vehicles, backup power systems, and portable devices. Most fuel cell engineers work for automotive manufacturers, energy companies, or specialized engineering firms.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fuel cell engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A fuel cell engineer might spend time modeling fuel cell performance using computer software, then move to the lab to test prototype components under various operating conditions. They review test data to identify design issues, collaborate with materials scientists on component improvements, and prepare technical reports documenting findings. Some weeks involve more fieldwork testing integrated systems, while others focus on design modifications based on durability or efficiency concerns.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy solving concrete technical problems and understanding how systems actually work. You're comfortable with both investigative analysis and hands-on engineering work, and you appreciate roles where scientific principles directly drive practical improvements to real products.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $128,080 | $157,710 | $162,880 | 2,710 |
| District of Columbia | $107,300 | $133,300 | $166,360 | 510 |
| California | $102,360 | $130,900 | $166,580 | 30,530 |
| Delaware | $97,920 | $125,130 | $128,140 | 610 |
| Colorado | $95,710 | $124,430 | $149,790 | 7,190 |
| Alaska | $92,280 | $124,340 | $157,610 | 380 |
| Maryland | $98,300 | $122,870 | $156,560 | 6,550 |
| Louisiana | $81,790 | $119,540 | $147,560 | 1,890 |
| Massachusetts | $96,440 | $119,300 | $140,590 | 7,680 |
| Wyoming | $100,060 | $117,750 | $140,600 | 230 |
| Rhode Island | $99,350 | $116,230 | $154,690 | 1,560 |
| Texas | $91,420 | $112,410 | $145,090 | 22,080 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Compressed Natural Gas Fuel System Inspector (CNG-FSI) (CNG-FSI) — CSA Group
- Fluid Power Engineer (CFPE) — International Fluid Power Society
- STCW - Chief Engineer 3000 kW/4000 HP or More Management Level — United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
- Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) — Society of Manufacturing Engineers
- Test and Balance Engineer (TBE) — Associated Air Balance Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fuel cell engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2141.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.