Specifying test rigs and instrumentation. Conducting tests and recording, analysing and interpreting data. Proposing modifications and re-testing. Attending meetings and giving presentations, writing and editing reports on work done with conclusions and recommendations. This is commonly possible Commonly possible for those with experience.
Employers frequently use contractors to cope with extra demand.
Engineers with several years experience sometimes act as consultants. External courses used to provide specialist knowledge and techniques. Career development Advancement to senior development posts. It is possible to move to other types of work eg technical sales, commissioning, or design based on knowledge of products. Opportunities to move to consulting work.