Reliability Engineer

Reliability engineers make sure that machines, systems, and products work safely and consistently over time. Their main goal is to prevent things from breaking down and to reduce the risk of faults. This can mean running tests on equipment, designing maintenance plans, or improving how a product is built. They often work with other engineers to investigate why something failed and then find ways to stop it happening again. Reliability engineers are needed in many industries, from manufacturing and aerospace to energy, transport, and healthcare.

Starting salaries for reliability engineers in the UK are usually around £28,000–£35,000 a year, depending on the employer and location. With more experience, salaries can rise to between £40,000 and £55,000, while senior engineers or specialists in high-demand areas may earn over £60,000. In some industries, especially oil, gas or advanced technology, pay can be even higher.

If you are thinking about this career, subjects like maths, physics and design & technology at school will be useful. For university, most employers look for a degree in engineering (mechanical, electrical, aerospace, manufacturing or industrial engineering are all common routes). Computing and data analysis skills are also valuable since reliability engineers often use specialist software to model systems and predict problems. Communication skills are equally important, as you’ll need to explain technical issues clearly to managers and teams.

The most direct path is to study engineering at university, but there are also apprenticeships in engineering disciplines that can lead into this field. Some people start as maintenance or design engineers before moving into reliability roles. Getting experience with real equipment — whether through placements, internships, or project work — will make you stand out. Professional development is also encouraged, and many reliability engineers aim to gain Chartered Engineer (CEng) status through institutions like the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) or the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

If you enjoy problem-solving, working with technology and finding ways to make things run better for longer, a career as a reliability engineer could be a great fit.

To research local education and training opportunities that could lead to a career as a reliability engineer, visit our partner website >log on | move on>.

Details of relevant degree courses can be found on the UCAS website. 

What does a reliability engineer at Cranswick do?

The Safety & Reliability Society

Want to know what it's like to work as a reliability engineer? Watch the video in How Did You Get That Job? to find out more.