One of the top research projects of Ceramic Engineers is the development of a ceramic engine which would replace the present diesel, gasoline, and turbo engines. This new engine would withstand extremely high temperatures, would be much lighter, would be more efficient, and would not wear out like metal engines. To maintain a competitive edge in the market, ceramic companies will often hire Ceramic Engineers to serve in vital business and management areas. Top salaries vary widely according to the size of the firms, the type of work done, and the extent of the engineer's experience. Life, health, and accident insurance and retirement benefits are usually offered to Ceramic Engineers on a contributing or employer-paid basis.
Some employers also offer stock options, profit-sharing plans or pay annual bonuses.
The scheduled workweek for most engineers is 40 hours. However, if important project deadlines must be met or breakdowns in plants occur, engineers may be expected to work overtime as necessary. A Bachelor of Science degree in ceramic engineering or materials science is virtually always required for entry-level jobs. Some firms, however, accept workers whose degrees are in materials engineering, physical chemistry, physics, or metallurgy if the undergraduate program has included ceramics. Advanced training and degrees are required for an increasing number of jobs in the ceramic engineering field, particularly for those engineers who specialize in research and development.