Engineering Jobs That Won’t Be Replaced by Robots

Many of us can’t remember what we did before we had our tablets and our smart phones. The introduction of smart technology has made a number of everyday tasks simpler and easier to complete.

And while most of us are glad to have the convenience of advanced technology, it has left some concerned about the safety of their careers.

There is even a website called ‘Will Robots Take My Job?’ where you can look up your career to find out the probability of it being replaced and controlled by programmed AI.

For some roles, this transfer has already taken place, from warehouse and factory workers to cashiers and data-entry clerks, many of these positions are now fully automated lines put into place where qualified professionals once stood.

But how likely is it that your profession will be replaced by an automated AI system?

Fortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all AI replacement for engineering roles.

There are some aspects of engineering that can be automated and supported through computers such as those that are data-focused mathematically reliant.

However, there are still creative elements to engineering where a human touch is still necessary, from understanding the logistics of a problem, to forming new theories and solutions.

That’s why we’re confident that if there ever is AI intervention in the engineering sector, it will only be to enhance an engineers’ capabilities rather than replacing them. In this article, our experts look at the engineering roles that will not be replaced by robotics or AI.

Mechanical Engineer

While mechanical engineering is a numerical and scientifically orientated role, which could be replaced by computers, there are also numerous, problem-solving and client-based requirements that an AI simply could not do, including:

  • Assessing project requirements

  • Arranging budgets, scheduling projects, and communicating with clients and suppliers about specifications

  • Presenting designs to clients

  • Testing, evaluating and modifying products based on data

This work mainly takes place in the following industries:

  • Transport

  • Power

  • Water

The projects based in these environments will not always have conditions suitable for machinery of any kind, let alone automated AI.

Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing engineers are usually responsible for production lines for organisations such as:

  • Vehicle manufacturers

  • Scientific equipment manufacturers

  • Pharmaceutical manufacturers

While some of the processes of a manufacturing engineer can and have been replaced by automated programmes, such as equipment installation and trouble-shooting breakdowns, there are many aspects of manufacturing that require human intervention. These include:

  • Managing other engineering and technical staff

  • Designing and testing new equipment and processes

  • Organising maintenance

  • Coordinating staff from different sectors, such as suppliers, clients, and researchers.

Electrical Engineer

An electrical engineer is required to design, develop and install electrical products and systems.

This is a great example of a role that involves far too many external factors to be replaced by AI, and can only be enhanced by the use of advanced technology.

There are also multiple responsibilities based around client communication that could not be replaced by machinery, such as:

  • Creating test procedures

  • Designing and supervising the installation of electrical systems in buildings

  • Arranging project specifications with customers and suppliers

  • Testing, researching and evaluating products

The key industries that employ electrical engineers include:

  • Telecommunications

  • Computing

  • Utilities

  • Transport

  • Construction

Chemical Engineer

Another example of a role that gravitates around variable external factors is that of a chemical engineer.

A chemical engineer is required to develop industrial processes and design or amend process plants and equipment.

While the scientific and mathematic aspects of chemical engineering could be enhanced by computers, the role could never be replaced entirely by AI, due to responsibilities such as:

  • Managing the construction of new plants

  • Overseeing site operations

  • Assessing safety and environmental issues

  • Co-ordinating installation and project engineers

Industries that typically employ chemical engineers include:

  • Chemical production and processing companies, such as plastics, pharmaceutical and synthetics

  • Petrochemical and oil refining companies

  • Water treatment companies

Find Your Next AI-Proof Role

At BMR Solutions, we have over 30 years’ experience in engineering recruitment. We help talented candidates connect with our extensive client base to find the best employment opportunities across Bristol and the South West.

With our expertise we can help you secure your dream role (one that is safe from being replaced by AI!), so why wait? Get in touch with a member of our team today.