How can you become a Field Applications Engineer (FAE)? What are the paths and what sort of academic background do you need? This article looks at how you can become a Field Applications Engineer (FAE) and what types of roles and industries you may be working in.

Field Applications Engineer – What are the opportunities now?

Introduction

A Field Applications Engineer (FAE) plays a vital role at the intersection of engineering, sales, and customer service. As a technical expert and communicator, a Field Applications Engineer helps clients understand and utilise complex products and systems, offering tailored solutions to meet specific needs. Whether working with semiconductors, software platforms or industrial machinery, Field Applications Engineers bridge the gap between engineering teams and end-users/customers, making it a dynamic and rewarding career path.

Paths to Becoming a Field Applications Engineer

There is no single route to becoming a Field Applications Engineer, but most paths begin with a solid technical education. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering or a related field is often essential. Some FAEs pursue postgraduate qualifications, especially in specialised industries such as aerospace or medical devices.
Hands-on experience is equally important. Many FAEs begin their careers in technical support, systems engineering or product development before transitioning into more customer-facing roles. Communication skills, problem-solving ability and commercial awareness are key traits that enable engineers to make this move successfully.

Types of Field Applications Engineer Roles

Field Applications Engineer roles can vary widely depending on the industry and the nature of the product or service. Some common types include the following.

Hardware FAEs

These Field Applications Engineers focus on components like semiconductors, printed circuit boards or power systems.

Software FAEs

These Field Applications Engineers support applications involving embedded systems, cloud platforms or AI tools.

Systems FAEs

These Field Applications Engineers integrate both hardware and software to deliver complete solutions.

Pre-sales FAEs

These Field Applications Engineers support sales teams by demonstrating product capabilities and advising on configurations.

Post-sales FAEs

These Field Applications Engineers assist customers with integration, troubleshooting and optimisation of products.

Types of Industries Where a Field Applications Engineer Can Work

FAEs are in demand across a wide range of industries, including the following.

Electronics and Semiconductors

FAEs help customers design and implement integrated circuits and other components.

Telecommunications

They support network infrastructure deployments and signal processing solutions.

Automotive and Aerospace

FAEs provide expertise in embedded systems, safety-critical components and performance analytics.

Medical Devices

Engineers in this field ensure accurate integration of diagnostics or monitoring equipment.

Industrial Automation and Robotics

FAEs assist manufacturers in deploying control systems and smart technologies.

Software and Cloud Services

With the rise of SaaS, FAEs are often needed to help clients adopt and customise digital platforms.

Example of People Globally and in Different Industries Working as a Field Applications Engineer

Across the globe, Field Applications Engineers play critical roles in both established companies and innovative start-ups.

In Germany, Clara Meier, an FAE at a major automotive electronics supplier, supports Tier 1 manufacturers with system-level design guidance.

In the United States, James Wu works as a Software FAE at a cloud computing firm in Silicon Valley, helping enterprise clients integrate AI APIs into their business workflows.

In Japan, Hiroshi Tanaka represents a robotics company, providing on-site technical demonstrations and support to clients in the manufacturing sector.

In the United Kingdom, Aisha Khan supports NHS Trusts in integrating diagnostic imaging technology into hospital systems.

These examples reflect the versatility and global reach of the role.

Example of Moves into a Role as a Field Applications Engineer from Other Jobs

Many Field Applications Engineers (FAEs) transition from related technical or customer-facing roles.

From Product Design

An engineer who designed circuit boards may become an FAE for a semiconductor company, using their hands-on knowledge to support clients.

From Technical Support

A software support engineer might move into an FAE role, especially if they demonstrate a knack for customer interaction and problem-solving.

From Academia

A researcher or lecturer in a technical field could pivot into industry as an FAE, especially if they have experience collaborating with external partners.

From Sales Engineering

Those in technical sales roles often move into FAE positions, where their understanding of customer needs and product applications is invaluable.

Key Responsibilities of a Field Applications Engineer

The day-to-day tasks of an FAE vary but commonly include the following areas.

Providing Pre- and Post-Sales Support
FAEs assist in demonstrations, pilot projects and deployment.
Collaborating with Engineering Teams
They relay customer feedback to internal teams for product improvements.
Delivering Technical Training
FAEs often run training sessions for clients or internal staff.
Troubleshooting and Problem Solving
They help diagnose and resolve product-related issues in the field.
Travelling to Customer Sites
Many FAEs spend significant time on the road, offering in-person support and building relationships.
Creating Technical Documentation
They may contribute to user manuals, application notes or white papers.

Becoming a Field Applications Engineer offers the opportunity to combine technical expertise with client engagement, making it a fulfilling career for those who enjoy problem-solving and communication. With demand across various industries and global opportunities, FAEs play a crucial role in enabling innovation and ensuring customer success. Whether transitioning from design, support or academia, the role of a Field Applications Engineer is both challenging and highly rewarding.

Companies That Employ Field Applications Engineers

Field Applications Engineers are highly valued by both multinational corporations and specialised firms. Some well-known companies that regularly employ FAEs include these.

Intel
One of the world’s leading semiconductor companies, Intel hires FAEs to support clients in integrating processors, FPGAs and networking products.

Texas Instruments
Known for analogue and embedded processing, TI employs FAEs to help customers optimise their designs using TI solutions.

NVIDIA
Their FAEs provide technical support and system integration expertise for GPUs, AI platforms and automotive solutions.

Analog Devices
With a wide range of signal processing products, their FAEs guide clients through complex design requirements.

Siemens
Through their digital industries division, FAEs support automation systems, industrial software and digital twin technologies.

ARM
A leading provider of processor IP, ARM relies on FAEs to help clients develop and test customised SoC solutions.

Keysight Technologies
Their FAEs help engineers test and validate electronic systems in industries ranging from telecom to aerospace.

ABB
In the field of robotics and industrial automation, ABB FAEs help manufacturers implement and maintain complex systems.

Medtronic
In the medical device sector, FAEs at Medtronic provide technical expertise for surgical and monitoring technologies.

AWS (Amazon Web Services)
Software-focused FAEs support enterprise clients in deploying cloud-based infrastructure and services.

Resources

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Engineering Council UK
IEEE Field Application Engineering Community

The Field Engineer Community Join the dedicated networking groups for FAEs, and the private network for Field Applications Engineering leaders and managers.

Further Reading

Field Engineering Opportunities in the Semiconductor Industry

Meet a passionate new onsemi Field Application Engineer

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