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Quentin_alex
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What is it like to work as a materials engineer as a civilian with the Department of Defense?
Dr.D said:One of the fun parts of working for the US Navy as a civilian was being required to use a government credit card for all travel. The then led to repeated (about monthly) required "training" on how to use a credit card, roughly a half hour wasted time watching an inane video and taking a computerized test.
Dr.D said:One of the fun parts of working for the US Navy as a civilian was being required to use a government credit card for all travel. The then led to repeated (about monthly) required "training" on how to use a credit card, roughly a half hour wasted time watching an inane video and taking a computerized test. Having a PhD, being a registered professional engineer in two states, and 40+ years of work experience does not exempt one from being treated like you are in junior high school.
Dr.D said:The general attitude in the military is "if you are dumb enough to work for us, you're too stupid to do anything useful." The military always farms out all of the important engineering work to contractors because they have no confidence in their own people. I say this from seven years spent in a Navy Lab, and it was an utter waste of that part of my life.
My advice is to stay away from working directly for the military.
Quentin_alex said:Thank you all for the responses.
I am within a year of graduation from my program, so does the Navy or Air Force, for example, hire newly graduated candidates? Would this be a good first step to begin my career as a materials engineer?
Dr.D said:True professional work is virtually unheard of, and employee morale is generally through the floor.
Not been my experience, took me a matter of months out of a job fair; I do know colleagues who've been waiting longer than that (a year) for clearances though.Dr Transport said:\\
It will take a year or more to get hired by the govt so having that experience won't hurt.
clope023 said:Not been my experience, took me a matter of months out of a job fair; I do know colleagues who've been waiting longer than that (a year) for clearances though.
Quentin_alex said:For those who have worked in government, is the work experience viewed as attractive by companies in the private sector?
A materials engineer in the military is responsible for researching, developing, and testing materials used in military equipment and structures. They also work to improve the performance and durability of existing materials.
The job duties of a materials engineer in the military may include conducting experiments and tests on materials, analyzing data and results, designing and creating new materials, and collaborating with other engineers and military personnel on projects.
A materials engineer in the military may have more specialized training and experience in working with materials specifically for military use. They may also have a greater focus on meeting certain military standards and regulations.
Some important skills for a materials engineer in the military include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, knowledge of materials science and engineering principles, and the ability to work well in a team and under pressure.
Yes, there are opportunities for advancement as a materials engineer in the military. With experience and further education, one can advance to higher ranks or positions with more responsibilities, such as project management or leadership roles.