To work as a validation engineer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree in engineering; and
• have a license.

Education after high school

Most students prepare for this field by earning a bachelor's degree in engineering. While there are some specific validation engineering programs, most students study for this occupation by getting a degree in mechanical or industrial engineering. Many four-year colleges and universities offer these programs of study. You may need between four and five years to complete this program.

Some jobs require a master's or doctoral degree (PhD). For instance, if you are interested in teaching validation engineering at a college, you need a PhD. Also, many student engineers go to graduate school to specialize in an area of validation engineering.

Work experience

Consider participating in an internship with an engineering firm while you are in college. An internship offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.

On-the-job training

In general, validation engineers receive one to six months of on-the-job training. New graduates work under the guidance of experienced engineers. In large companies, you may also receive formal classroom training. As you gain knowledge and experience you have greater independence and work on more difficult tasks.