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There’s plenty of scope for validation engineers to specialise in roles including process validation, computer systems validation and equipment validation.

A validation engineer is a qualified engineer who manages, inspects, calibrates, tests and modifies the instrumentation, equipment, mechanics and procedures used to manufacture various products. They ensure all systems are running correctly and efficiently to produce high-quality products. They also investigate the causes of equipment failures and anomalies, and decide if the equipment needs to be repaired or replaced.

The job is hugely varied and validation engineers can be found in labs and research facilities as well as in a wide range of manufacturing industries, including aerospace, automotive, computer software and pharmaceuticals. A validation engineer’s role will depend on the industry they work in and their specialism, but typical tasks include:

• monitoring and testing equipment

• analysing and documenting test results

• preparing compliance reports

• directing validation activities

• resolving testing problems

• making adjustments or improvements to equipment and processes

• creating databases to track validation activities

• interpreting customer requirements

• developing validation schedules

• conducting training and overseeing the work of validation technicians

• maintaining instrumentation and equipment

• keeping up to date on industry standards and regulations

Qualifications and training required

There are routes into a validation engineering career for both university graduates and school leavers. Graduates will need a degree in a relevant engineering discipline such as electrical, manufacturing, mechanical and software engineering. The most relevant degree subject will vary depending on the industry you’re applying to.

Relevant experience can be helpful; many employers offer final-year project work, degree sponsorship, vacation work and industrial placements, which can provide valuable contacts and a useful insight into the profession. If you’re a school leaver, you may be able to side step into validation engineering after completing an advanced, higher or degree apprenticeship in a relevant area such as electrical, manufacturing or mechanical engineering. If your apprenticeship doesn’t involve working towards a degree, further training may be required to progress.

Key skills for validation engineers

• The ability to find creative solutions to complex engineering problems

• A methodical mind

• Strong maths and IT skills

• Attention to detail

• Analytical thinking

• Organisation and time management

Typical employers of validation engineers

• Manufacturers, including the aviation and food industries

• Biotechnology labs

• Pharmaceutical companies

• Universities

• Hospitals

• Public service and private test labs

• Research institutions