Career in Biotechnology

Bio-Technology is the use of living things, especially cells and bacteria in industrial process. It covers a wide variety of subjects like Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Chemistry and Engineering and is also concerned with many other subjects like Health and Medicine, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Cropping system and Crop Management, Ecology, Cell Biology, Soil science and Soil Conservation, Bio-statistics, Plant Physiology, Seed Technology etc. 

The applications include developing various medicines, vaccines and diagnostics, increasing productivity, improving energy production and conservation. Biotechnology's intervention in the area of animal husbandry has improved animal breeding. It also helps to improve the quality of seeds, insecticides and fertilizers. Environmental biotechnology helps for pollution control and waste management. 

The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in 1986 under the Ministry of Science and Technology gave a new boost to the development of the of modern biology and biotechnology in India.

More than 6000 biotechnologists of higher skill are required, the department of Biotechnology (DBT) has highlighted the need to set up a regulatory body for the maintenance of standard education under the name of 'All- India Board of Biotechnology Education and Training' under the AICTE. 

Branches and Application of Biotechnology

Today, Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary activity involving, chemists, biologists, engineers and many other specialists. It scope is enormous. There are sophisticated new drugs produced in the milk of transgenic sheep, microbial cocktails that can clean up contaminated land transgenic plants and fish that yield more food or resist disease - and hundreds of different micro-organism able to produce fermentation products such as amino acids, vitamins, enzymes and antibiotics.

It is playing a major role in serving the mankind. Be it in forms of improved plant varieties or developing vaccines. It is widely used in food industry, enabling cattle to grow faster and produce new enzymes and making cheese. Some of the prominent areas of its application are given below:

Career in Electronics and communication engineering

Electronics and communication engineers design, develop, and supervise the production of electronics devices such as GPS devices, CD players, televisions, or communication devices. Electronics engineers may work on devices utilizing computers, but do not have the same specialties as computer hardware engineers. Electronics engineers also specialize in signal processing, control systems, and communications. Some engineers could specialize in a specific area, such as aviation electronics.

Before mobile phones and internet came into existence, the mode of communication had been via messengers. Messengers existed in different forms pigeons, people, smoke signals etc.

Coming to 21st century and you would find people using all kinds of wireless devices to communicate. So, ever wondered how your 12.9mm cell phone catches signals at the remotest areas. Well, it’s all the work of communication engineers.

What is Electronics & Communication Engineering?

Society relies on Electronics & Communication Engineering for breakthroughs in applications such as satellites, next generation mobile phones, air-traffic control, the Internet etc.

Communication systems are designed by communication engineers. Early inventors in the field include Elisha Gray, Guglielmo Marconi and John Logie Baird. In recent times, optical fibre has radically improved the bandwidth available for intercontinental communication, facilitating a faster and richer Internet experience. And, digital television has eliminated effects such as snowy pictures and ghosting. Communication remains an important part of world economy. The industry’s revenue is placed at just under 3 percent of the gross world product.

What are Functions of Electronics & Communication Engineer?

Typically, an Electronics & Communication Engineer will perform following work:

• Manage engineering team
• Design the communications equipment including modems, switches, routers and radio links
• Develop real-time computer systems, including embedded computer systems and their software.
• Build and test prototypes of new equipment including integrated circuit components.
• Predict communication systems performance
• Optimize the performance of communications systems
• Provide technical support to marketing or customer service staff and communications technicians.
• Train technical and engineering staff for new system installed.
• Supervise special research projects on next generation communication systems.

What to study in Electronics & Communication Engineering?

At the initial level, students concentrate on core units for electrical engineering: mathematics, physics, electrical and computer systems engineering, digital logic systems, computer organization and programming.
Later on the study includes communications, information transmission, electromagnetic theory, signals and systems, electronics and control systems, engineering management, communications electives and group and individual projects. 

Throughout the course, students choose from a range of electives, including Image Processing, Data Compression and Encryption, Radar Engineering, Microwave Integrated Circuits, Simulation of Communications Systems, Optical Networks, Wireless Networks, Internet Communication Engineering, Microwave Amplifiers and Oscillator Design, Communication Network Management.

They learn about the planning and design, commissioning, performance monitoring, optimization and management of both small scale and complex communications systems.

Career in Electronics and Communication Engineering

Employment opportunities for Electronics and Communication Engineers are growing rapidly. The list of employers includes manufacturers of radio, television, audio/visual, broadcasting and receiving equipments, hardware and associated software including computer systems, interfaces, security devices, data concentration, data transmission, signaling, satellite and radio communications and telephone equipment. Graduate also work in service organizations that provide broadcasting, consulting, data communications, entertainment, custom manufacturing, research and development, and system support.

Multimedia services are establishing employment opportunities not dreamed of years ago, for example video conferencing, interactive video on demand, internet broadcasting of conferences and training programmes and the real-time transfer of vast amounts of information.

Companies around the world are competing to be the first to market products such as digital mobile phones and network components that support the full range of Internet services into compact integrated circuit chip sets. Specialised terminal equipment will become available for new and innovative applications, including telepresence and shared virtual-reality worlds, with almost all existing communication network equipment being improved or replaced with exciting new technologies. 

Communication has be acknowledged as a vital ingredient for technology growing in leaps and bounds. Electronics and Communication Engineers are much in demand, as a nation’s hopes of development rests on their shoulders.

Career in Electrical and electronics engineering

Electrical and electronics engineers are involved in a wide variety of technology ranging from huge global positioning systems which can pinpoint the location of a moving vehicle to gigantic electrical power generators. These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing as well supervising the production of electrical and electronic equipment and machinery. Broadcast and telecommunication systems, electric motors, controls of machinery, lights and wiring in building complexes, vehicles, aircraft, radar and navigation systems, power generation, control and transmission devices which are used by electric utilities are all examples of equipment built by these engineers. They may also work in fields which relate to computers and IT. However, those engineers who deal exclusively with computer hardware are called computer hardware engineers- an engineering specialty with is discussed separately in the Handbook.

Electrical and electronics engineers may choose to specialize in various areas like power generation, transmission and distribution; communications; manufacture of electrical equipment etc or a one particular specialty within these area; foe e.g. industrial robot control systems or aviation electronics. These engineers are involved in designing new products, writing requirements for their performance, as well as developing maintenance schedules and charts. Testing equipment and machinery, solving operation problems, estimating time and cost of electrical and electronic products also come under their job.

In 2002, electrical and electronics engineers had around 292,000 jobs and constituted the largest branch of engineering. Most of these engineers were employed in professional, scientific, and technical services firms as well as government agencies. Manufacturers of computer and electronic equipment and machinery also employed these engineers. The remaining engineers were absorbed by firms which deal in wholesale trade, communications, and utilities.

Job and employment opportunities

Favorable employment opportunities are predicted for electrical and electronic engineers. Job opportunities which would result from retirement and transfers of existing electrical and electronic engineers are in proportion with the degree granted to these graduates and thus demand for these workers roughly equals their supply.

Although the employment opportunities for electrical and electronic engineers are predicted to grow through 2012, their growth rate is slower than the growth of other occupations. Even though there is a rise in demand for electrical and electronic products, (including advanced communication goods) defense-related electronic products, and consumer electronics equipment, competition from abroad and increased use of electronic and electrical engineering services in foreign countries, hinder domestic employment. The growth rate of employment opportunities are predicted to be highest in the service industries which provide electronic engineering expertise.

It is imperative that electrical and electronic engineers continue their education. Those who do not keep abreast of latest advances in technology are at the risk of either loosing jobs or loosing good promotion opportunities.

Career in Environmental engineering

Environmental engineers combine the knowledge of biology and chemistry to devise solutions to environmental problems. Concerns such as air and water pollution, recycling wastes, waste disposal and other public health issues, fall under their field. Environmental engineers study waste management of hazardous substances in order to analyze the risk, the treatment and the methods of containing such hazards. They also sketch regulations so as to prevent the occurrence of mishaps. Municipal water supply systems and industrial wastewater treatment systems are both designed by environmental engineers. They are also in charge of conducting research on proposed projects for the benefit of the environment, analyzing scientific data, and performing quality control checks.

Introduction

A drastic increase in environmental pollution across the globe has led to various research and development works in an effort to contain this menace and a relatively new discipline called environmental engineering has emerged which is providing excellent career opportunities. Environmental engineers apply combined methods of science and engineering to improve the environment so that people have access to healthy water, air and land suitable for human existence. Moreover, opportunities in environmental engineering have increased in last couple of decades and the professionals are recruited by companies working in chemical, geological, petroleum and mining sectors. 
Environmental engineers specialising in basic sciences, ecology, economics, social sciences, and radiological science as well as civil, mechanical and electrical engineers have attractive career options. A qualified professional working for an environmental engineering firm is expected to design, construct and maintain waste management systems so that urban and rural areas are kept healthy. Job of environmental engineers in India is expected to widen up as owing to tremendous economic development the country is facing high degree of environmental pollution and environmental engineers will have to check it.

Step-by-Step

Environmental engineering as a discipline is available at undergraduate level and post-graduate level as well as research level. Whereas B.Sc. in environmental science has duration of 3 years, M.Sc. in Environmental Engineering is of two years duration. A candidate with 10+2 in Physics, Chemistry and Biology can apply for B.Sc. course in Environmental Engineering. Similarly, B.Sc. in Environmental Engineering is required as eligibility criterion for M.Sc. 
Besides undergraduate and post-graduate courses, PG diploma course in Environmental Engineering is popular among candidates for it is an extensive course aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills in environment science. Students with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics in 10+2 can opt for B.E in Environmental Engineering. MTech in Energy & Environment Management is another attractive option which can be exercised after doing B.E or BTech in environmental or civil engineering.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Deciding whether or not environmental engineering is a suitable career will require you to think with passion rather than your brains, at the same time keeping your abilities in mind. If you are fervent about the environment and your surroundings with a scientific aptitude, then this is certainly the field to choose. A career in environmental engineering can be challenging as the candidate is expected to come up with revolutionary solutions for various environmental issues. However, the sector is quite attractive in terms of pay packages. Although a comparatively new career, environmental engineering is devoid of cut throat competition and candidates can get admission and jobs in various firms working in environment engineering with relatively less efforts.

What would it Cost Me?

A BTech in environmental engineering costs more than Rs 3 lakhs to candidates; the fee is inclusive of hostel and library charges. Fee is charged semester wise. Some private colleges can charge even more for the course. Similarly, MTech in environmental engineering can cost more than Rs 2 lakhs in four semesters. Various PG diploma courses in environmental engineering can be a cheap solution or substitute for MTech. Courses in government colleges and IITs and NITs are available at subsidised fees but the competition is tough.

Funding/Scholarship

Scholarships such as Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College Students in India, Indian Oil Corporation Scholarships Scheme for Engineering Students, Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) Fellowship and MHRD scholarship assistantship for Post Graduate Engineering, etc are considered some of the leading scholarships in India.
Similarly, NTPC Scholarships Scheme for Engineering Students and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) Scholarships are offered to candidates belonging to backward classes. Various commercial banks in India offer education loans at attractive interest rate to engineering students. It is always advisable to visit a loan provider and discuss various terms and conditions before taking an education loan.

Job Prospects

Environmental engineering has immense scope in India for professionals who are qualified in chemical, biological, thermal, radioactive or even mechanical engineering as environmental engineering is a diverse field and requires people from diverse background. Moreover, professionals from process engineering, environmental chemistry, water and sewage treatment, waste reduction management, pollution prevention, etc are required in large numbers. 
Job prospects for professionals with qualification in environmental engineering are bright in research centres, NGOs and various governmental departments working towards green development. Candidates with M.Tech in environmental engineering have opportunities to work for government built assessment committees which study and analyse the environmental risks involved in certain projects. The report of such a committee is then submitted to the concerned authority for further observation. Scholars with PhD in environmental engineering can opt for teaching jobs in colleges and universities.

International Focus

International firms and supra-national bodies like UNO require candidates with qualification and exposure in environment technology for various projects. Jobs in such projects are not only high paying in terms of salaries but attractive in terms of facilities and amenities offered. The US on the other hand offers attractive salary packages for environmental engineers where median salary for an environmental engineer is 80,000$.

Pay Packet

Environmental engineers have umpteen employment opportunities with Central and State pollution control boards which work towards maintaining clean environment and sustainable growth. Engineers working with State Pollution Control Board can get salaries ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000. Candidates with M. Tech in environment engineering receive attractive salary ranging from Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000. However, doing a research work in environmental engineering can be high paying as the professional earns a salary between Rs 50,000 and Rs 75,000.

Demand and Supply

Environmental engineering is facing shortage of trained professionals. As it is a new branch focussing on various implications of environment pollution, lack of information among candidates prevents them from entering the profession. There is a shortage of environment engineers as more and more organisations embrace environment friendly processes. Most of the engineering students go for traditional engineering disciplines and do not wish to explore the yet not explored environment engineering. However, a rapid growth in environment pollution will require environmental engineers in large numbers so that the same can be mitigated effectively.

Market Watch

Various governmental and non-governmental bodies require environmental engineers who can work for designing of environmental policy and regulation development, contaminated land management and site remediation and ensure environmental health and safety of people. Candidates with specialisation in hazardous waste management and natural resource management have higher employability as the segment is in dire need of trained professionals. Similarly, professionals exposed to risk assessment of various mega projects can get attractive jobs in various panels aimed to study environmental impact of the concerned project. 
Most of the demand in environmental engineering is coming owing to population growth, diminishing resources and risky exploitation of natural resources. Various state governments, mineral extracting companies and NGOs are looking to hire more environmental engineers so that public health problems can be solved. Moreover, more number of environmental engineers will be required to have sustainable development, environmental regulations, etc.

Positives/Negatives

Whereas environmental engineering is a promising career, there are also certain things that one has to keep in mind. Jobs in government sector are filled with the due process established by the concerned authority. Similarly, the job requires lots of analysis and study of various facets and factors before reaching onto any conclusion. 
There are also many advantages and one of them is that it is a promising career and still at a nascent stage.A lot of growth is expected in coming decades and early starters will have a certain advantage. Moreover, the job provides an opportunity to candidates to experience materialisation of conceived ideas towards green development. Environmental engineers help fellow humans by making the earth a better place.

Different Roles, Different Names

As environmental engineering is a diverse segment various segments of engineering come up with important role in it. Engineers from various disciplines have varied range of roles in environmental engineering; some of them are as follows:
•    Agricultural engineers
•    Biologists
•    Chemical engineers
•    Chemists
•    Civil engineers 
•    Ecologists 
•    Geography experts
•    Geologists
•    Hydro-geologists
•    Public health experts
•    Solid waste management professionals
•    Hazardous waste management professionals
•    Water treatment technicians
•    Wastewater treatment technicians

Top Companies

Besides various state pollution control boards formed by the governments of concerned state, Central Pollution Control Board too hires environmental engineers for various posts through exams conducted by UPSC. However, some private corporate firms hire environmental engineers for various requirements. Some of the leading recruiters in India are as follows:
•    AECOM
•    Privi Organics Limited
•    MACTEC 
•    UEM GROUP 
•    Kalpan Hydro Company
•    Goodrich Corporation
•    SPML Infra Limited
•    Brunel India Pvt Ltd
•    The Indure Private LImited
•    Sima Labs Pvt Ltd.
•    IDS Group
•    Dresser-Rand India Pvt Ltd

Top Institutes

B.Sc. in Environment Science can be pursued from:
•    South Gujarat University, Surat
•    University of Delhi
•    Berhampur University
•    Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
•    University of Mysore
•    University of Pune 
B.E. in Environment Science can be pursued from:
•    P.E.S. College of Engineering, Mandya 
•    Delhi College of Engineering, New Delhi
•    Gujarat University, L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad
•    Visveswariah Technological University, AIT, Chikmagalur
ME and MTech are offered in:
•    Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya , Indore (MP)
•    UP Technical University (Instt of Engg & Tech) Lucknow
•    Visveswariah Technological University, AIT, Chikmagalur-577102
•    Thapar Instt of Engg & Technology, Patiala
•    IIT, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur and Madras
•    Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi

Career in Petroleum engineering

Petroleum engineering course offer wonderful job opportunities at global and domestic levels. Opportunities in oil and gas sector are ample in Middle East with very high annual income packages. Higher education opportunities are good all over America and Europe too.

Introduction

Despite the fact that petroleum engineering is an attractive and high paying career option, not much information is available on it. Typically, a petroleum engineering graduate is given the job to discover natural sources of oil and examine the same. Similarly, developing the latest machines and equipments which can be used in the extraction and processing of oil is part of the job of a petroleum engineer. Petroleum engineers have global career and are hired by global oil companies.

The petroleum Engineering is divided into two parts.

Upstream Sector

The upstream sector consists of activities like exploration, production and exploitation of oil and natural gases. After gaining a qualification in petroleum engineering, the engineers work in the exploration and production activities of petroleum and other related products. Using the latest drilling technology and geophysics for the exploration of oil reservoirs, they exploit the same for maximum output.

Downstream Sector

The downstream sector consist activities such as the refining, marketing and distributing of petroleum products. Production is not the only work carried out in a petroleum company and the job of petroleum engineer does not get over as the oil is produced, rather, it starts at this stage. Refining process is crucial for an oil product as then only it can be used. Marketing and distributing department may require a petroleum engineer to have some management degree.

Step-by-Step

As the world is highly dependent upon petroleum as a source of energy, a career in the field is bound to be attractive and challenging. An aspirant can do a BTech in petroleum engineering after completing 10+2 in the science stream.

Similarly, post graduate program in the field can be done after the completion of BE/BTech degree in the relevant subject. If you are an MSc in Chemistry then that also makes you eligible to do post graduation in petroleum engineering. Research can be done in the fields of petroleum refining and petrochemicals, petroleum exploration and production and mechanical or petroleum science, etc.

Start Early

Considering the inclination towards petroleum engineering one should start preparing for entrance exams which are conducted by various engineering colleges. As Petroleum is available in areas which are geographically isolated places, it could be challenging to work in such a place. However, it is a highly paid career and money attracts lots of students to pursue this field of study in engineering colleges.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Asking the question to self might answer whether you are right in selecting petroleum engineering as your career. Before opting for a career in petroleum engineering analyse yourself, your interests, long term goals, affordability of staying in foreign lands and many other related issues. Considering your decision you will be required to study and complete your education so that you are eligible to do a course in petroleum engineering.

What would it Cost Me?

Doing a course in petroleum engineering is expensive. One reason for high fee structure may be because the course requires lots of experiments and equipments. BTech or BE in Petroleum Engineering can cost between Rs 6 to Rs 8 lakhs. Similarly, MTech in petroleum engineering can cost more than Rs 3 lakhs.

Funding and Scholarship

Despite high costs, courses in petroleum engineering attract lots of bright students. Students can get education loans from various nationalised banks or private banks which are being made available at low interest rates. Scholarships are available for meritorious students, particularly for those who excel in entrance exams. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) scholarships are offered to SC/ST students who want to do research in engineering.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd offers attractive scholarships for engineering students interested in doing research in petroleum energy. Indian Oil Corporation under its corporate social responsibility offers 100 scholarships to engineering students wherein students can avail Rs 2000 per month for four years bachelor degree.

Job Prospects

Career prospects are quite attractive in petroleum sector as petroleum companies have great influence and offer attractive salaries to employees. The demand for petroleum and petroleum products is only expected to increase and the increase would lead to creation of new jobs. In fact, there is great demand of efficient petroleum engineers and almost every young graduate in petroleum engineering gets a job offer from petrol and gas companies from India and overseas.

Whereas private petroleum companies offer attractive salaries to petroleum engineers, government sector oil companies are not far behind in terms of paying attractive salaries and bonuses to employees.

Pay Packet

As in every other industry, remuneration in petroleum engineering is determined according to the knowledge, skills, qualification, capabilities and experience of the candidate. Moreover, if the candidate is from top notch engineering college he may get a job which can pay salary between Rs 25,000 and Rs 30,000 per month. People working in petroleum producing MNCs get median annual salary of around $100, 000.

Demand and Supply

The expanding demand for petroleum products would require exploitation of oil reservoirs which consequently would need trained petroleum engineers. Currently, there is big mismatch in the demand and supply of trained petroleum engineers in India. When Indian oil companies are going overseas and setting up oil producing units, jobs in petroleum sector are bound to increase. Moreover, India is new in imparting training skills in petroleum engineering to its youths. More than India, it is MNCs from overseas who hire Indian petroleum engineers for their various projects.

Market Watch

Despite the fact that oil fields and reservoirs are diminishing, the consumption of oil is increasing rapidly. According to Exxon Mobile sources, global liquid fuels consumption rose to approximately 85 million barrels per day in the first half of 2010. It is more than 1 million barrels per day higher than the first half of 2009.  There would be jobs coming up in the US oil companies but not in the US, in gulf countries and other parts of Central Asia.

Jobs in Russian petroleum firms would be coming up in a big way as the country is trying to exploit its huge oil reservoirs to sell out its petroleum products. Moreover, attractive job options would be available to young petroleum engineers once production starts at Krishna-Godavari basin in India. Companies involved in oil extraction hire Indian petroleum engineers for they work at lower salaries than engineers from other countries.

International Focus

Besides getting jobs in Indian petroleum companies, candidates with qualification in petroleum engineering get jobs in Reliance Industries Ltd, ONGC, Schlumberger, British Gas, Halliburton Services, Essar Oil, GSPC, Shell, OIL, Gas Authority of India Ltd, Cairn Energy, IOCL, Essar Oil Ltd, NIKO Resources, GEOENPRO, MECOM Ltd, Baker Hughes, Reliance Energy, etc amongst many others.

Those who have done masters or research in petroleum engineering can work in research activities of various multinational oil companies in various R&D projects.

Positives and Negatives

Whereas a golden future in exploitation of ‘liquid gold’ attracts every young engineer, risks involved in it can deter many not to opt for such a career. In order to search new oilfields, at times, petroleum engineers are required to stay in remote and distant areas which are not only difficult but unattractive too. When compared with other sophisticated engineering branches such as IT, petroleum engineering professionals face numerous difficulties. No one would wish to work in remote and arid area where life becomes difficult.

On the positive side, it is a highly rewarding career and also provides opportunities to travel to distant places.

Different Roles, Different Names

Depending upon the qualification, skills and experience, roles and designations differ in the field. Some of the positions offered are Reservoir Engineer, Technical Support Engineer, Senior Geoscientist, Drill Bits System Field Engineer, Petroleum Technologist and Drilling Engineer. Other positions are Principal Reservoir Petro Physicist, Technical Support Specialist, Tender and Quotations Analyst, Geosciences Pressure Expert, Senior Petro Physicist, Senior Exploration Geologist and Process Engineer.

Top Companies

• Indian Oil Corporation
• IBP Co. Limited
• Lubricants India
• Oil Gas India
• Petrosil Group
• Shiv-Vani Universal
• ONGC
• Bharat Petroleum
• Reliance Petroleum Limited
• Essar Oil Limited
• Gas Authority of India
• Hindustan Petroleum Corporation
• Aban
• Oil India Limited
• Tata Petrodyne
• Bongaigaon Refinery
• Gas Projects (India) Private Limited
• Hindustan Oil Exploration Company Limited
• India LPG
• Kochi Refineries Limited

Top Institutes

The following institutes offer academic qualification in petroleum engineering:

• Bharathisadan Institute of Engineering and Technology
• BR Ambedkar Technological University
• Indian School of Mines
• Maharashtra Institute of Technology
• Institute of Petroleum Studies and Chemical Engineering
• Nowrosjee Wadia College
• University of Petroleum Studies
• Institute of Cheminformatics Studies
• Dr. Harising Gour University

Students interested in pursuing courses in petroleum engineering can do the following:
• BE Petroleum Engineering
• BTech Applied Petroleum Engineering
• BTech Petrochemical Engineering
• BTech Petroleum Engineering
• BTech Petroleum Refining and Petrochemicals Engineering
• BTech Petroleum Refining Engineering
• BTech Petroleum Reservoir And Production Engineering
• ME Petroleum Engineering
• MTech Petroleum Engineering
• MTech Petroleum Exploration
• MTech Petroleum Refinery Engineering
• MTech Petroleum Refining and Petrochemical Engineering

Tips for getting hired

An international career is much attractive and young engineers willing to explore can work in global oil companies and get international exposure; however, here are few things which can help in building a successful career:

• Excellent academic record in BTech in Petroleum Engineering is a must.
• Technical exposure during various projects carried out during the course shows that the candidate can work effectively when exposed to real scenarios.
• Excellent numerical and computer skills are expected from petroleum engineers as most of the time there would be computer simulation required for further analysis.
• Skills to plan out project and execute them with team spirit are further requirements.

Sound communication skills in English language would enhance the chances of getting international exposure and higher position within the organization.

Career in Computer Science Engineering/ IT

Computer science engineers utilize the principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to design and develop software used to control computers. Since technology is continuing to evolve, the duties of computer software engineers is continually changing.

 

Introduction

Career in IT is considered one of the most high-paying jobs and is full of opportunities; particularly when India’s prowess in information technology industry is recognized across the globe. The pool of talented computer engineers working in IT companies of the USA and Canada shows that IT can take a person to higher levels. Numerous IT companies from India employ huge number of computer professionals in their Indian and overseas offices.

Step-by-Step

A BTech or BCA/MCA can become an IT engineer. And a person requires +2 with mathematics to pursue BTech or BCA. Others without mathematics too can do various short term certification and diploma courses in various small packages. However, there is a stringent selection procedure at place for computer engineers wherein admission to the BE/ BTech courses is extremely competitive. An internship program at Various IT companies would garner practical knowledge and employability and it is a must and can be either after or during the course.

Start Early

Candidates willing to excel in computer engineering should have sound command over mathematics and science to clear entrance exam conducted soon after 12th class. Advanced knowledge of chemistry and physics would help the candidates get through  the entrance exam conducted by engineering colleges in India. Candidates who wish to do BE / BTech in Computer Engineering must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination, with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Similarly, those who wish to do Diploma in Computer Engineering must have passed 10 + 2 with Science Subjects. Candidates may opt for M.E/ M. Tech in Computer Science for further specialization in Computer Science.

Is it the right career for me?

Depending upon the interest the career in IT can be chosen. Those who love programming and coding can do software engineering and those who prefer networking and system administration, can do hardware engineering. IT sector is quite broad in terms of employment and job options. Roles are varieties for Computer engineers in IT sector, but their primary role is to apply the knowledge of mathematics and science to design and develop software to be used by clients or users. There are network engineers, system management professionals besides the computer engineers. Computer software engineers have bright career prospects as the application of software and dependency on it in various walks of life are increasing.

What Would It Cost Me?

Studying Information Technology can cost a lot in private engineering colleges. However, government sponsored engineering colleges charge comparatively low. IITs charge from Rs 2,00,000 to Rs 2,70,000, but the fee depends upon the rank of engineering college and reputation. Diploma programs on the other hand cost less and a diploma in computer application can be done at 50,000.

Funding/Scholarship

A number of scholarships are available for computer science students. One such scholarship is the Paul Foundation Scholarships and is offered to study BTech and MTech in computer science. Candidates with outstanding academic records are eligible for it.  The NTPC Scholarship for Disabled or Handicapped Engineering Students is also there for students who have some kind of handicap including of visual, hearing or orthopedic.

Students willing to do research in computer science can apply for the Young Engineering Fellowship Program which is offered to students of BTech who are willing to do summer projects conducted by the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore. Students in third year of any type of engineering degree are applicable for it.

Job Prospects

Booming IT sector in India has plenty of jobs for fresh computer science graduates. Candidates from top notch engineering colleges however get attractive job offers from MNC IT companies in comparison to not so known engineering colleges. Additionally, candidates with high percentage of mark and good communication skills as well as sound computer knowledge do not face problem in getting a job whether they are from a reputed engineering college or not. Computer engineers can get jobs in non-IT companies like universities, research, private and public industries, government departments, business organisations, commercial organisations and the manufacturing sector, etc.

Besides the Computer Engineers have plenty of options to work in IT companies in departments such as design, development, assembly, manufacture and maintenance, etc. Working as programmer, web developer, and E- commerce specialist with telecommunications companies, automotive companies, aerospace companies, etc. can be a lucrative career option as well. Moreover, numerous national and multi-national computer manufacturing companies, computer hardware system design and development companies, computer networking companies, software development companies, etc. require computer professionals in large numbers.

Pay Packet

It is the attraction of higher salaries in IT sector which urges youngsters to opt for a course in computer science. In comparison to other sector, computer science graduates fetch higher salaries from INR 15,000 – 25,000 in the beginning. After gaining +2 years of work experience, they can get a salary of INR 40000. Candidates who get opportunities to work in overseas project get numerous benefits and incentives which may even go to six figures. However, the salary depends a lot upon some factors such as the state of the industry, work experience, qualifications and ability of the candidate, etc. amongst others. Computer Science graduates who are in teaching can fetch a salary of INR 20000 plus dearness allowances and other benefits.

Demand and Supply

True to its global reputation, the Indian IT sector has lots of scope in terms of growth in employment opportunities. A huge requirement of trained IT engineers is expected in next couple of years. While according to NASSCOM, the Indian IT exports are expected to expand to the tune of US$ 175 billion by 2020 and the domestic sector will account for US$ 50 billion in terms of earnings. Similarly, a huge quantum of profit is expected  from the export and domestic IT sector which would be worth US$ 225 billion.

Market Watch

Widening scope for computer science professionals can be prophesied from the fact that after the recession is over, new jobs would come in large numbers in IT sector. Moreover, with low service cost Indian IT companies have leverage over IT companies in the USA, Canada, and Australia. The low cost Indian IT service attract lot more business even during recession as companies in developed nations try to reduce their production cost and outsource their IT work to Indian IT firms.

International Focus

IT sector can truly be considered a global career in terms of its wide scope for professionals. India has been one of the leading exporters of IT talent and Indian computer engineers have played major role in the growth and development of IT sector in the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada. Numbers of employment opportunities are waiting for Indian computer professionals in these countries. Some new avenues too are being opened for Indian computer professionals in Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, etc. Thanks to global demand for IT services, which is around USD $70 trillion for many new and exciting international careers are opened up for computer professionals.

Positives/Negatives

Despite the fact that recent recession showed the worse days for computer engineers, a great hope still persists for Indian computer science professionals for the reason that India has potential to offer IT services at the fraction of the cost of the USA software developing companies. India has advantage in terms of IT professionals as it produces more in numbers than Western countries; therefore, the demand can be filled only with Indian professionals who are par excellence vis-a-vis computer professionals of the West. Indian IT companies such as Wipro, Infosys, TCS, Patni, HCL, etc. have been able to garner gains even during the recession and have hired a number of computer professionals.

Different Roles, Different Names

• Software Developers: Software developers are professionals who are concerned with facets of the software development process which involves activities such as design and coding, computer programming, project management, etc.

• Hardware Engineers: These professionals do research, design, develop, test, and oversee the installation of computer hardware which inter alia includes computer chips, circuit boards, systems, modems, keyboards, and printers.

• System Designer: Professionals involved in system designing, Logical & Physical Designing wherein logical designing can be enumerated as the structure & characteristics such as output, input, files, database & procedures, etc.

• System Analyst: Computer engineers who work as systems analyst do research about the existing problems and plan solutions for the problem. They also recommend software and system related problems and coordinate development between business development teams. 

• Networking Engineers: Networking engineers are computer professionals involved in designing, implementation, and troubleshooting of computer networks.

• DBA: DBA or Database Administrator are the professionals who are bestowed with the job to design, implement, maintain, and repair an organization's database. Inter alia DBA professionals are also known as Database Coordinator or Database Programmer in IT sector.

Top Companies

• Google
• Yahoo
• Hewlett-Packard 
• International Business Machines Corporation
• Toshiba Corporation 
• Dell Inc
• NEC Corporation
• Canon Inc
• Apple Inc
• ASUSTEK Computer Inc
• Acer Inc
• Lenovo Group Limited
• SAIC
• Sun Microsystem
• TCS
• Infosys
• HCL
• Wipro
• Techmahindra

Tips for Getting Hired

Like all other engineering professions, Computer Engineering too requires practical knowledge to be employable. There is no short-cut for computer professionals, whatever one knows needs to be put into practice and loopholes would come out only when exposed to projects and other practices. Therefore, candidates who are willing to make a career in IT industry should have maximum exposure to practical knowledge so that they can perform efficiently. Most of the top IT colleges impart practical knowledge and offer internship programs which enlarge the chances of getting hired. Additionally, candidates from not so known colleges should do add-on certification courses offered by Microsoft, Oracle, Redhat, etc. so that they have higher chances of getting hired.

Institutes

A number of engineering colleges in India offer BTech/BE in computer science and many of them are internationally acclaimed. Most of the engineering colleges are in public sector, which include IITs and NITs. 
• Indian Institute of Technology IIT Kanpur
• Indian Institute of Technology IIT Kharagpur
• Indian Institute of Technology IIT Bombay
• Indian Institute of Technology IIT Madras
• Indian Institute of Technology IIT Delhi
• BIT, Mesra
• NIT- National Institute of Technology Trichy
• Delhi College of Engineering , Delhi
• BITS Pilani
• IIT Roorkee
• IT-BHU
• IIT-Guwahati
• College of Engg , Anna University, Guindy
• Jadavpur University , Faculty of Engg & Tech., Calcutta
• Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad
• NIT- National Institute of Technology Warangal

Career in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers design, develop and supervise the manufacturing of engines and machines and some later become managers. Mechanical engineering encompasses many engineering fields. They develop power generating machines such as internal combustion engines and turbines. Moreover, they work with machines that consume power such as air conditioners or industrial production equipment. Mechanical engineers develop equipment and tools used by other engineers and are involved with maintenance, agriculture production, and sales.

 

Introduction

Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest branches of engineering. It is also referred to as the ‘mother’ branch of engineering. Another appealing feature of mechanical engineering is that the application base of this field of study is extremely broad and diverse. Almost all inventions during the ancient period and a vast majority in the modern era are direct contributions of one or the other application of mechanics.

Traditionally, mechanical engineers have to deal with concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, robotics, kinematics, structural analysis, fluid mechanics and many others. These concepts are applied in the process of designing state-of-the-art manufacturing units, different types of motor vehicles, aircraft and aerospace parts and a vast assortment of industrial machinery. Mechanical engineers also contribute in the development of various engines, power plant equipment, heating and cooling systems and other simple and complex machinery. Mechanical engineers not only design new mechanical systems but they are also responsible for testing, maintaining and manufacturing them.

The aforementioned are the conventional roles and responsibilities of mechanical engineers. However, times have changed. Nowadays the scope of mechanical engineering is expanding beyond its traditional boundaries. Mechanical engineers are focussing their attention towards new areas of research such as nanotechnology, development of composite materials, biomedical applications, environmental conservation, etc.

The ever increasing scope of this particular job profile now requires professionals to get into financial and marketing aspects of product development and even into people and resource management. All in all mechanical engineering offers a wide bouquet of job options to students who are looking for a stable and stimulating career.

Step-by-Step

Passing 10+2 with PCM (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) is the first step you take towards becoming a professional mechanical engineer. To be eligible for a graduate programme (BE/BTech) in a college, you should have scored at least 50% marks and 60% for being eligible for IITs (Indian Institute of Technology) in 10+2 with PCM as subjects. After this, you can sit for various entrance examinations such as:

•  The Joint Entrance Examination for IITs (IITJEE) for admission to various IITs

•  All-India Engineering Entrance Exam (AIEEE) for admission to various National Institutes of Technology or regional engineering colleges

Apart from these, there are hundreds of engineering colleges across the length and breadth of the country where you can get into a graduate programme in mechanical engineering. Some of these colleges conduct their own entrance exams whereas some accept AIEEE scores.

You can also opt for a diploma in engineering from a polytechnic. For obtaining a diploma, the basic eligibility is completion of Class 10 with 50% marks. The duration of these diploma courses is three-years for regular and four-years for part-time study.

You can also go for an associate membership qualification from the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, which is considered at par with the diploma earned from a state run polytechnic or a university degree. Another option is to earn a similar qualification offered by the Institution of Engineering (India). Diploma holders can also get direct entry into the second year of a graduate program (lateral entry).

After successful completion of the graduate program, you can go for the two-year masters program in mechanical engineering or ME/MTech. If you are interested in pursuing a post-graduate programme in mechanical engineering from any of the IITs, then you must appear for the Graduate Aptitude Test for Engineers (GATE).

These days many engineering colleges are offering a dual (BE/BTech and ME/MTech) programmes. Some other institutions are offering a combination of an engineering degree along with a management programme.

In case you are interested in further studies, you can go do a PhD or even opt for a management degree from a reputed business school.

Start Early

To make mechanical engineering your chosen career path, you must have affinity for the way different machines function. This trait can be observed from early childhood when children try to tinker around with different machinery in their immediate vicinity. Such kids often tend to take apart mechanical toys, clocks, bicycles and then they try to assemble them back again.

These children are so innovative that they may even try to make new things. Here, parents have a special role to play. They must understand that the child possesses an inquisitive mind that is interested in gaining knowledge about machinery and not in breaking or destroying things. Parents must encourage the child’s curiosity to know more about different gadgets and machines in and around the house.

During schooling, the quest to play around with machinery increases all the more. This curiosity often culminates with the child opting for science with the PCM subject combination.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Like other career paths, the entry into this particular branch of engineering also requires you to possess certain basic traits. First and foremost, you must have a penchant for mechanical components and machinery and how these machines work. Then you must be good at physics, chemistry and mathematics. You must also have skills such as an analytical bent of mind, logical reasoning and problem solving.

Further, you must have immense patience, physical strength, ability to work for long hours and an inventive spirit that are essential ingredients for becoming a successful mechanical engineer.

What would it Cost Me?

A graduate programme from a private engineering institution will cost you anywhere between Rs.50,000 to Rs.2,00,000 annually. However, in a reputed government run establishment such as the Indian institute of Technology (IIT) or any regional engineering college, you will have to pay an annual fees in the range of anywhere between Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000.

Funding/Scholarship

Educational institutes offering programmes in mechanical engineering generally extend scholarships to students from socially and economically backward classes. For example, IITs waive off the complete tuition fees for students belonging to the socially backward communities. Scholarships, freeships, stipends and financial assistance are also provided to students on the basis of merit and other qualifying criteria.

Job Prospect

Since mechanical engineering is the broadest of all engineering fields, the job prospects on offer for skilled mechanical engineers are aplenty and unending. Mechanical engineers are required to design, test, manufacture, install, operate and maintain a wide array of machines and mechanical systems that are used in countless industries. These professionals can find employment both in the government and private sector undertakings.

Major industries that employ mechanical engineers include automobiles, space research, aeronautical, energy and utilities, air conditioning, bio-mechanical industry. Other major employers include giant manufacturing plants, air conditioning and refrigeration industry, turbine manufacturing plants, oil and gas exploration and refining industries and the agricultural sector.

In the government sector, mechanical engineers can provide their knowledge to various government run projects in the role of technical experts and consultants. They can also work in private engineering companies that provide technical consultancy to both government and corporate firms.

These engineers can also hold high managerial positions in government as well as private sector organisations according to their field of expertise and educational qualifications.

Pay Packet

Mechanical engineering offers a wide variety of career opportunities to job aspirants. The average monthly salary of mechanical engineers who are new to this profession is approximately in the range between Rs.10,000 and Rs.25,000. Good campus placements can fetch even better packages for deserving students. Mechanical engineers who hold a post-graduate degree from a reputed academic institute tend to get better offers than diploma and degree holders.

From here on the annual pay packet depends on a number of factors such as the skill set possessed, experience, expertise, the employer, nature of roles and responsibilities, etc. Highly skilled mechanical engineers can easily command pay packets as high as Rs 40-45 lacs per annum.

Demand and Supply

There is great demand for skilled mechanical engineers in different segments of the industry. Their expertise is required in traditional manufacturing industries such as automobiles, aviation, shipping, aerospace, power plants and machinery manufacturing. In recent times, the services of expert mechanical engineers have even been sought in fields such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, energy conservation and environmental engineering.

There is also great requirement for mechanical engineer consultants who have management skills along with technical proficiency. The primary role of such professionals is to manage both technology and people and firms that provide engineering consultancy require them.

Various engineering colleges and polytechnics across the country are doing their best to meet the burgeoning demand of skilled mechanical engineering professionals.

Market Watch

The job market for mechanical engineers is perennial. Even the vagaries of the global economic crisis could not knock out the demand for these professionals in the Indian job market. Although some branches of mechanical engineering went out of focus during the meltdown period, the overall situation was much better as compared with other careers. On the brighter side, things are getting back to normal and this evergreen career path is again gaining coin amongst career aspirants as it did during the pre-meltdown years.

In fact, this is a period of resurgence for mechanical engineers. They not only have countless options in the industrial sector but they can also make foray into new realms of technology and even get into management and technical consultancy.

According to a survey, mechanical engineering is amongst the most sought after branches of engineering preferred by students seeking admission to various technical institutes across India in the recent years.

International Focus

Highly qualified professionals from this field, such as post-graduates from various IITs, often seek suitable employment in foreign countries. It is not that only highly qualified mechanical engineers get opportunity to work abroad. If you are employed in a multinational company, you may also get the chance to work on offshore projects

Positives/Negatives

+ives

•  There are umpteen job openings and you will not remain unemployed
•  Constant involvement in the development of new components, gadgets and machines
•  Innovative contribution to the new frontiers of science such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering and environmental sciences
•  Not hit by recession or global economic meltdown

-ives

•  Working conditions can be adverse at times
•  Deadlines and work pressure can exact a heavy toll on the body and mind
•  Physically strenuous and not for the weak

Different Roles, Different Names

Mechanical engineering is considered the ‘mother’ of all branches of engineering. In this context the roles and responsibilities held by a mechanical engineer are different and depend on their area of specialisation and the industry they are working for.
In broad terms, the job profile of mechanical engineers can be classified into the following functional segments:

•  Research and Development (R&D): Engineers whose role is to do research and then plan for new machines and their constituent parts.

•  Design: Professionals whose responsibility is to draft technical drawings, manually or with the aid of computers.

•  Production: Engineers who supervise the manufacturing of mechanical components and machines.

•  Analysis and testing: Engineers who analyse and test different types of machines and their parts to ensure that they function flawlessly.

•  Installation: Professionals who install machines and mechanical parts at the client location.

•  Maintenance: Engineers whose primary role is to ensure that machinery is working as per specifications.

Top Companies

1.  Automobile and auto part manufacturers
2.  Aerospace industry
3.  Various Government sector undertakings
4.  Aviation companies
5.  Steel plants
6.  Thermal plants and gas turbine manufacturers
7.  Air conditioning and refrigeration industry
8.  Shipping industry
9.  Engineering consultancies
10. Armed forces

Tips for Getting Hired

1.  It is advisable to earn a post-graduate degree in this field
2.  Computer proficiency is a must these days
3.  You must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
4.  A management degree further brightens your career prospects