Career Profile:

Acoustic Engineer

Ocean Sonics, 2015
Ocean Sonics, 2015

$72,814

Median Yearly
Income

good

Work
Prospects

5

Prospective
Employers

This unit group is for all mechanical engineers: Mechanical engineers research, design and develop machinery and systems for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, power generation, transportation, and processing/manufacturing.

Work type:

full-time, self-employed

Most likely to work in:

Halifax

Most employees have:

Bachelor's Degree

Certification:

Professional Engineer Certificate

What you do

Acoustical engineers apply the scientific knowledge of sound and vibration for a variety of technological purposes. They are typically concerned with the design, analysis and control of sound.



In the oceans technology sector, Acoustics allow engineers to measure sounds in the ocean to improve our knowledge on the effects of noise on aquatic life or to locate marine species and fish stocks. Acoustics can also be used to explore mineral deposits in seabeds and locate marine vessels such as submarines.



An Acoustic Engineer performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation and performance of mechanisms, components and systems;
  • Analyze dynamics and vibrations of mechanical systems and structures;
  • Develop maintenance standards, schedules and programs;
  • Investigate mechanical failures or unexpected maintenance problems; and
  • Supervise technicians, technologists and other engineers and review and approve designs, calculations and cost estimates.




What you need

  • A natural interest in the principles of sound and vibration;
  • A natural aptitude in science and mathematics;
  • Enjoy analyzing engineering problems and finding solutions;
  • Able to work with high amounts of focus and patience;
  • Able to effectively use transducers and other sound measuring instruments;
  • Able to work well with other professionals; and
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.




Who might be hiring?







References and further reading



* The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is "good", which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is above average.





Your Career Pathway

Opportunities for Hands-on Experience


Secondary School
Co-op Options and Opportunities (Science Streams)
Oceans 11
Not-for-Profits


Post-Secondary Educational Programs


Certificates, Diplomas, Community College
Acadia, Cape Breton University, Dalhousie Agriculture Campus, Saint Mary's, Saint Francis Xavier: Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical concentration if available)
2 years, $6,000 / year
Acadia: Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical concentration if available)
2 years, $6,000 / year
Cape Breton University: Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical concentration if available)
2 years, $6,000 / year
Dalhousie Agriculture Campus: Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical concentration if available)
2 years, $6,000 / year
Saint Mary's: Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical concentration if available)
2 years, $6,000 / year
Saint Francis Xavier: Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical concentration if available)
2 years, $6,000 / year
Provincial Standards Examination for Right to Title and Practice

Certification attests that the holder has met provincial requirements for the occupation. Certification is required to practice this occupation.



Graduate Programs


NSCC Oceans Technology Program
Advanced one year diploma for students with a Bachelor of Science or Engineering or an Engineering Diploma to further enhance skills in the oeceans technology sector.