What is EngTech?

The EngTech title is awarded by engineering bodies that have been approved by the Engineering Council. It’s a professional title that reflects the UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC). EngTech is an independently evaluated, internationally recognised mark of an engineering technician’s experience, skills and competence, and demonstrates commitment to the profession. The IRSE encourages licence holders to progress in their professional career in engineering by registering for EngTech.

The Engineering Council has set a number of competence criteria which all registered Engineering Technicians must meet. These competence criteria are laid out in the UK-SPEC documentation. Typically, EngTech-eligible technicians will have completed engineering apprenticeships and have recent qualifications and on-the-job training. If you have been working within the industry for many years you can also demonstrate your knowledge and skills through the work that you’ve done.

More information about professional registration can be found on our Registration page.

The benefits of EngTech to you

Holding the EngTech title is a badge of quality which enhances an individual’s CV and work status. EngTech works hand-in-hand with membership of the IRSE, giving individuals access to learning, networking and career development resources. It can also provide a step on the route to qualifications such as Incorporated Engineer (IEng) and Chartered Engineer (CEng).

The benefits of EngTech for business

Businesses that support their engineers and technicians to become EngTech registered can publicly demonstrate their commitment to high industry standards and employee professional development. These businesses are able to recruit and develop the best talent and enjoy the benefits of a more knowledgeable, motivated and committed workforce. Having EngTech registered employees also provides a great selling point for companies involved in tendering processes. 

Route to EngTech for IRSE Licence holders

To be considered for EngTech registration you will first need to be a member of the IRSE.  In addition to opening up your route to registration IRSE membership will also provide you with member benefits such as:

• the IRSE News magazine
• free entry to technical meetings and seminars
• discounts on IRSE publications
• access to MyCareerPath, an electronic competence and CPD recording system.

The UK-SPEC competence criteria for EngTech are incorporated into all licences listed in the table below. Current versions of IRSE licence Competence Assessment Checklists (CACs) can be downloaded here.  If you hold a licence not listed below and would like to find out more about what is required please contact registration@irse.org

If you hold one of the above licences you will be considered to be “EngTech Ready” with regard to demonstrating the Engineering Council’s UK-SPEC competence criteria for EngTech.  The Engineering Council also defines a minimum education requirement equivalent to BTEC Level 3 or NVQ Level 3 for EngTech.  However, if you do not hold these qualifications but have held a licence for more than 5 years, the IRSE will assess the details of your experience and any relevant courses or training (including any in-house or equipment specific training) that you have successfully undertaken.

What to do next

If you are not currently a member of the IRSE you will need to complete an application form for the membership grade most appropriate to your experience and qualifications. More information about the grades of membership and downloadable forms can be found on our Membership pages.  If you have any questions about membership please contact us at membership@irse.org. 

For those who hold an IRSE Licence as above and wish to apply for membership at the grade of Accredited Technician at the same time as applying for EngTech registration there is a reduced membership application which can be downloaded here.

To apply for EngTech registration without one of the above licences you will need to complete an Initial Application Form for Engineering Council Registration and send it to registration@irse.org along with details of apprenticeships and/or educational qualifications you have completed or are working towards.  Please also provide a copy of your current full CV.