Are Field Engineers Real Engineers?

Are Field Engineers Real Engineers? Here’s the Truth

Are field engineers real engineers? This is one of the most common questions I get and it’s something people are searching for all the time on Google and YouTube. So, in this blog, I’m going to share the truth and offer a perspective I think you’ll really appreciate.

The Short Answer: Technically, No.

Field engineers are not technically licensed professional engineers in most cases. Sure, I’ve seen a few field engineers who are engineers-in-training (EITs) or even professional engineers (PEs), but that’s rare.

Most field engineers don’t carry an official license. But let me explain why that doesn’t matter and why the title field engineer still carries real weight.

My Story: Why I Loved Being Called a Field Engineer

Let me share a personal story. There was a journeyman carpenter I deeply admired. I knew his whole family, and one day he said, “Jason, you’re an engineer, come help me build this bunk bed.”

Of course, I wasn’t a real engineer, but that comment appealed to my ego. And you know what? I was good at putting things together. I’d done field engineering, I followed drawings well, and I had experience with everything from IKEA sets to complex layout systems on job sites.

That comment didn’t just stroke my ego; it made me want to be better. That’s the power of the title “engineer” as an aspirational title.

Field Engineers Act Like Engineers: Here’s How

If you ask ChatGPT or Google, “What does an engineer do?” the answers usually include:

• Solving problems.
• Designing systems.
• Drafting plans.
• Working with others to execute their vision.

And guess what? Field engineers do all of that:

• They design control networks, layout plans, logistics systems, and means and methods.
• They coordinate drawings, including creating and interpreting lift drawings.
• They solve field problems with inventiveness and technical skill.
• They work hand-in-hand with the craft and foremen to execute plans with precision.

They may not have a stamp or PE license, but they’re definitely engineering solutions in the real world.

Field Engineers Apply Scientific and Mathematical Principles:

Field engineers constantly use engineering concepts:

• Traverse calculations.
• Coordinate geometry.
• Quantities and trending.
• Surveying principles.
• Formulas and spreadsheets.

The Field Engineering Methods Manual (Construction Surveying and Layout by Wesley Crawford) is filled with math, not just step-by-step how-tos. It’s real technical content.

I’ve personally created spreadsheets for radial staking, as-built points, and level loops. Every one of those uses real engineering calculations.

Field Engineers Are Inventors Too:

I remember one project where we were replacing a loading dock. The elevated portion required a ton of formwork so I proposed using foam blocks instead.

• Sourced the foam.
• Checked it with the structural engineer.
• Ran the calculations.
• Developed a fastening method without damaging a post-tension deck.
• Helped weigh down and install the system.

It worked. The structural engineer said he’d never seen that exact method before.

That’s what I mean when I say field engineers invent. They find practical, cost-effective, and safe ways to solve problems on-site.

So… Are They Professional Engineers?

No.
But should we still call them engineers?

Yes. Absolutely.

Why?

Because it’s an aspirational title. It pushes people to act professionally, apply science, and serve the team. Field engineers are doers, problem-solvers, and leaders in training. They deserve respect, support, and recognition.

Final Thoughts:

So, to wrap it up:

• Are field engineers licensed engineers? No.
• Do they do engineer work? Yes.
• Should we keep using the title? 100% yes.

If you’re a field or project engineer or if you work with one, be proud of the title. Embrace the responsibility, the problem-solving, and the growth.