Can You Call Yourself an Engineer Without a PE License?
Can You Call Yourself an Engineer Without a PE License?
Introduction
Yes, you can call yourself an engineer without a Professional Engineer (PE) license. This title is often used in various contexts, especially in non-regulated industries. However, the answer can vary significantly based on the location and specific job requirements.
Location-Specific Regulations
Location-Specific Regulations
The regulations around calling oneself an ‘engineer’ can vary greatly depending on the country. In some locations like Canada, the title is highly regulated. Yet, in the United States, the situation is different. Here, the title is more relaxed, with fewer regulatory restrictions.
Canada
In Canada, the term 'engineer' is taken very seriously. Professional licensing and registration are required to use the title, especially if you're offering engineering services to the public.
United States
In the United States, it's a bit more relaxed. You can use the title 'engineer' without the PE license, and employers can create any job title they wish. The majority of engineers in the U.S. do not hold a PE certification. Therefore, you can work without a PE license in many industries.
Affected Industries
In the U.S., civil engineers are an exception, as a PE license is typically required for signing off on designs. For consulting engineers, a PE license may be necessary to offer engineering services as a consultant. However, in my experience, direct interaction with a PE has been rare in manufacturing engineering, where I have worked since the late 1990s.
Job Titles
While you can use the title 'engineer,' this can sometimes lead to confusion. For example, 'sanitation engineer' may not be a common job title unless you are specifically working in that field. Using the term 'engineer' has become somewhat 'hazy' in today's job market, and discretion is key in how you use it.
Legal Considerations
Law and Professional Licensing
According to laws in many countries, the title 'engineer' is protected, and one must go through a rigorous process to earn the right to use it. In the U.S., a candidate must pass the Fundamental Engineering (FE) exam and later the Professional Engineering (PE) exam to become a licensed engineer. In Kenya, similar laws protect the term 'engineer,' and those who wish to practice must go through a lengthy and demanding process.
Professional Responsibilities and Legal Protection
Engineers, especially those offering their services to the public, are often bound by specific contractual terms. They are responsible for their work and can be sued or sued for any issues related to their projects or work. This adds a layer of responsibility and accountability to the title 'engineer.'
Conclusion
Calling yourself an engineer without a PE license is possible, but it's important to consider the legal implications and the specific industries you're working in. The title is more relaxed in the U.S., but in many industries, you still might encounter additional requirements or restrictions. As always, it's best to respect the regulations and professional standards in your chosen field.