Personal positioning for young professionals

This paper will explore the different employment options for engineers. While the majority of engineers are employed directly by companies, the recent changes in corporations has resulted in an increase in the number of engineers pursuing contract engineering, consulting, and other forms of self-employment. In this paper the author looks at the pros and cons of each employment option, and pose several questions that engineers should consider as they plan their careers. Personal positioning is a key element of an engineer's career. In today's rapidly evolving workplace your career may take several different directions. Employment options are increasing and varying. Options include direct, contract consulting, and self-employment. This paper addresses each of these options and provides one with a series of questions that one should consider before exercising any of these options. The options of working for small companies versus large companies and the management track versus the technical track are also considered.