What is a typical day like for a systems engineer?

In summary, systems engineering involves working on assigned projects and completing them in release cycles. The process includes identifying requirements, planning a solution, implementing it with the help of other engineers, and continuously testing the system. A lead engineer creates a planning schedule and manages any delays or problems that arise. A postmortem review is conducted after a release to improve for the next cycle.
  • #1
MartinJH
72
2
Hopefully this is in the correct section. I'm studying systems engineering and I'd like to know a typical day in the life of such. I've done some research but I can't quit assume what a working day would involve and perhaps, generally, what I can focus on.
* What sort of projects are worked on
* amount of liaising with other disciplines
* amount of knowledge of other disciplines

Many thanks
 
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  • #2
Wikipedia has an article on it:

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Systems_engineering

From reading the article, systems engineering is very similar to the tasks handled in a software engineering project:
- you'd be assigned to a project until completion
- the project may have release cycles
- during each release cycle you'd identify the primary requirements, plan a solution, review it with others and then proceed to implement it
- other engineers would do the same
- a lead engineer would've developed a planning schedule showing when each component would be dropped in place
- each component would be dependent on other components being put in place
- the plan would allow for slippage in case some component was late
- other times the plan may have to be reworked due to some problem like hardware or software not in place or still back ordered
- a dedicated systems test team would be continuously testing system as it's put together via unit test, functional tests and finally system level tests
- the tests to run would've been designed while other components were being built to be ready when they are
- criteria would be established to manage defects uncovered by the test team
- the criteria would say something like no severity 1 defects allowed, limited number of severity 2 defects with workarounds listed in a readme file...
- as things are almost completed a lockdown of changes is put in effect where the lead engineer under advisement of his team what to fix and what not fix in order to maintain the stability of the product as we enter the final stage
- once all components are in place, system tests have been completed and the shipping criteria met then the team could announce a release
- finally a postmortem review of what worked and what didn't in preparation for the next cycle of release
- and the tasks repeat...
 

What is Systems Engineering?

Systems Engineering is a multidisciplinary approach to designing, analyzing, and managing complex systems over their life cycles. It involves integrating various components and subsystems to create a functional and efficient system that meets the desired requirements.

What do Systems Engineers do?

Systems Engineers work on a variety of tasks, including requirements analysis, system design, system integration, verification and validation, risk management, and project management. They also collaborate with various teams, such as software engineers, hardware engineers, and project managers, to ensure the successful development and implementation of systems.

What skills are required for a career in Systems Engineering?

Systems Engineers need a strong background in mathematics, science, and engineering principles. They should also possess analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Familiarity with systems engineering tools and methodologies, such as model-based systems engineering and requirements management, is also essential.

What industries employ Systems Engineers?

Systems Engineering is a versatile field that is applicable in various industries, including aerospace, defense, automotive, healthcare, and telecommunications. It is also becoming increasingly important in emerging fields such as renewable energy and smart infrastructure.

What is the outlook for jobs in Systems Engineering?

The demand for Systems Engineers is expected to continue to grow in the coming years as technology and systems become more complex. This field offers various career opportunities, including system architect, project manager, and systems analyst. With the rapid advancement of technology, the need for Systems Engineers is likely to remain strong in the future.

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