If you’re an engineer looking to make some extra cash, you’re in luck! There are plenty of engineering side hustles that can help you earn more while using your skills. From freelance work to consulting, these opportunities can fit around your schedule and boost your income. Here are ten great side hustles for engineers to consider.
Key Takeaways
- Freelancing allows engineers to work on diverse projects and set their own rates.
- Consulting can leverage your expertise to help businesses solve problems.
- Technical writing is a great way to share your knowledge while earning money.
- 3D printing offers creative opportunities to design and sell unique products.
- AI development is a growing field with lots of potential for engineers.
1. Freelance Engineering Work
Freelancing in engineering is a great way to earn extra money. Many companies need engineering solutions but don’t want to hire full-time staff. This is where you can step in and offer your skills. You can do various tasks like evaluating designs, creating prototypes, or developing software.
Why You Should Consider It
- Higher Pay: Freelance work often pays more per hour than regular jobs because it doesn’t include benefits like health insurance.
- Flexibility: You can choose when and where to work, making it easier to fit into your schedule.
- Utilize Your Skills: You can use the skills you already have and enjoy doing.
How to Get Started
- Network: Reach out to your professional contacts to see if they need help.
- Freelance Platforms: Sign up on websites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find jobs.
- Build a Portfolio: Show your past work to attract clients.
Special Considerations
- Licenses: Make sure you have the right licenses for the work you want to do. For many engineering jobs, a Professional Engineer (PE) license is required.
- Legal Issues: Be aware of any rules that might limit the type of freelance work you can take on, especially if you have a full-time job.
Freelancing can be a rewarding way to earn extra income while using your engineering skills. Just be sure to follow the rules and stay within your legal limits.
| Earning Potential | $30–$130+ per hour |
|---|---|
| Skills Needed | Engineering expertise, licenses, and software knowledge |
By taking on freelance engineering work, you can boost your income while doing what you love!
2. AutoCAD and Engineering Modeling Work
Many companies need engineers to create 2D and 3D models. This is where you can step in! You might already know some popular software used for this, like AutoCAD, Microstation, Revit, and SolidWorks. Many businesses don’t have enough work to hire full-time designers, so they look for freelancers instead.
Why You Should Consider It
This side hustle is great for engineers. It uses skills you already have, pays well, and you can work from home. Plus, you can set your own hours!
How to Get Started
To begin, you’ll need a portfolio showcasing your past work. Here are some steps to help you:
- Create a portfolio of your designs.
- Set your rates based on your experience.
- Reach out to companies you’ve worked with before or look for new clients online.
Special Considerations
Keep in mind that this isn’t a free side gig. Software licenses can be expensive, and many companies don’t allow their software to be used for freelance work. Make sure you have the right licenses and follow any rules to avoid issues.
Freelancing in AutoCAD can be a rewarding way to earn extra income while using your engineering skills.
Earning Potential
You can earn between $25 and $150+ per hour depending on your skills and experience. This can be a lucrative way to supplement your income while doing something you enjoy!
3. Consulting Services
Consulting services can be a great way to earn extra income. As an engineering consultant, you can help companies solve their engineering problems. This can include technical issues, like checking if a product is safe, or helping teams work better together.
Earning Potential
The money you can make varies a lot, but many consultants charge between $75 and $200+ per hour. Here’s a quick look at what you might earn:
| Type of Consulting | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Technical Consulting | $75 – $150 |
| Strategic Consulting | $100 – $200+ |
| Management Consulting | $150 – $300+ |
Why Consider Consulting?
- High Pay: Consulting is one of the best side hustles for engineers.
- Flexibility: You can choose when and how much you want to work.
- Networking: You can meet many professionals and companies.
Consulting can be a rewarding way to share your knowledge and skills while earning extra income.
Getting Started
- Find Clients: Look for jobs on freelance websites like Upwork or use your personal network.
- Join a Firm: You can also work part-time for a consulting company, which can help you gain experience.
- Stay Updated: Keep learning about new trends in engineering to stay competitive.
By following these steps, you can start your journey as a consultant and earn extra income while helping others solve their engineering challenges.
4. Coaching
Coaching can be a great way to earn extra money, especially if you have valuable experience to share. Many people are willing to pay for your insights and guidance. You can help others with various topics, from career advice to personal development, and often do this remotely through video calls.
Why Consider Coaching?
- Flexibility: You can choose your hours and work around your schedule.
- Low Start-Up Costs: All you need is a way to accept payments and a platform for video calls.
- Potential for Growth: Many engineers have turned coaching into full-time businesses.
How to Get Started
- Create a Website: Showcase your services and include client testimonials.
- Join Professional Directories: List your services on platforms like Noomii or Life Coach Hub.
- Leverage Your Network: Reach out to friends and colleagues who might need coaching.
Coaching can be a rewarding way to help others while also earning extra income.
Earning Potential
You can charge $130 or more per hour for your coaching services, depending on your expertise and the demand for your niche.
5. Freelance Technical Writing
Freelance technical writing is a great way for engineers to earn extra income. Many companies are looking for skilled writers who can explain complex ideas clearly. As a technical writer, you might work on:
- Articles for scientific journals
- User manuals
- Policies and procedures
- Business plans
- White papers
- Case studies
- Corporate reports
- Blog posts on technical topics
Earning Potential
You can earn between $40 and $80 per hour or $0.15 to $1.50 per word. This can vary based on your experience and the type of writing you do.
How to Get Started
- Join freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find jobs.
- Create a portfolio showcasing your writing skills.
- Network with past colleagues to find potential clients.
Freelance technical writing not only helps you earn money but also improves your writing skills, which can benefit your main engineering career.
Finding Jobs
You can browse technical writing jobs on various job boards. For example, you might find 373 open jobs that fit your skills. Approaching clients directly can also lead to better pay since you won’t compete with many other writers.
In summary, freelance technical writing is a valuable side hustle for engineers looking to leverage their expertise while earning extra income.
6. Prompt Engineering or AI Development
Prompt engineering is an exciting field that allows engineers to work with artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This side hustle can take just 2 hours per week, making it a flexible option for those looking to earn extra income while being part of the AI revolution.
What is Prompt Engineering?
Prompt engineering involves creating and refining prompts that guide AI models to produce desired outputs. This can include tasks like:
- Designing effective prompts for AI tools
- Testing and improving AI responses
- Collaborating with developers to enhance AI systems
Why Choose This Side Hustle?
- High Demand: As AI technology grows, so does the need for skilled prompt engineers.
- Flexible Hours: You can work on your own schedule, making it easy to balance with other commitments.
- Skill Development: Gain valuable experience in AI, which is a rapidly evolving field.
Potential Earnings
The earnings from prompt engineering can vary widely based on experience and project complexity. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Beginner | $20 – $40 |
| Intermediate | $40 – $80 |
| Expert | $80 – $150 |
Prompt engineering isn’t just another side hustle; it’s a chance to be part of the AI revolution while maintaining control over your time and income.
In summary, prompt engineering or AI development is a promising side hustle for engineers looking to leverage their skills in a growing industry. With minimal time commitment and the potential for high earnings, it’s worth considering for anyone interested in technology and innovation.
7. Ethical Hacking / Penetration Testing
As more businesses go online, the need for cybersecurity is growing. Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, help companies find weaknesses in their systems. They check if a website or network is safe from attacks. If they find any problems, they suggest ways to fix them.
Why Consider This Side Hustle?
- Good Pay: You can earn between $50 and $65 per hour.
- Exciting Work: It’s a challenge to outsmart security systems.
- Flexible Location: You can work from anywhere, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
How to Get Started
- Find Gigs: Look for jobs on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Bugcrowd.
- Build Your Reputation: Contribute to open-source projects on GitHub.
- Network: Join online communities for ethical hackers on Reddit and Discord.
Ethical hacking is not just about skills; your online presence matters too. Many people get hired based on their contributions to forums and communities.
Summary
Ethical hacking is a rewarding side hustle that combines problem-solving with the thrill of cybersecurity. With the right skills and networking, you can turn this into a profitable venture.
8. Website Testing
Website testing is a great way to earn some extra cash. You can make between $30 and $70 per hour by testing various websites and apps. Companies are always looking for testers, whether you have technical skills or not.
As a tester, your job is to explore different websites, try out their features, and see if anything goes wrong. After testing, you provide feedback to the company, usually through an online form.
Why You Should Consider Website Testing
- It’s a simple and low-stress job.
- You can work from home, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
- It’s a good option if you have other responsibilities, like taking care of kids.
How to Get Started
To find website testing jobs, check out these platforms:
- Tester Work
- User Testing
- Userlytics
- User Feel
Website testing is a flexible side hustle that allows you to earn money while helping companies improve their online presence.
With the rise of remote work, there are 377 open jobs available right now for web testing. You can browse these opportunities and apply to find a job that fits your skills and schedule.
9. App Design and Development
Earning potential: Varies (often $60–$80 per hour as a freelancer)
In today’s world, there seems to be an app for everything. But what if you notice a gap? If you have a great idea for an app that doesn’t exist yet, you can create it yourself! This side hustle can be both exciting and rewarding.
Why You Should Consider It
- High earning potential: If your app becomes popular, the sky’s the limit for your earnings.
- Creative outlet: You can express your ideas and creativity through app design.
- Skill development: You’ll learn valuable skills in programming and design.
How to Get Started
- Join Developer Programs: Sign up for the Apple Developer Program for $99 per year or the Google Play Console for a one-time fee of $25.
- Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with programming languages like Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android.
- Build Your First App: Start with a simple project to practice your skills.
App design and development can be challenging, but it offers one of the highest earning potentials among side hustles. If you have a unique idea, it could lead to great success!
10. 3D Printing
3D printing is a fun and creative way to earn extra money! With your engineering skills, you can design and create unique items to sell online. Here’s how you can get started:
- Choose Your Niche: Think about what interests you. Do you like making toys, jewelry, or home decor? Pick something you enjoy!
- Create Your Designs: Use software to design your products. Make sure they are unique and appealing to buyers.
- Sell Your Products: You can sell your items on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or Etsy. Alternatively, consider setting up your own online store.
Earning Potential
The money you can make varies widely. Some people earn a little, while others can make a lot depending on what they sell and how well they market their products.
Important Considerations
- Initial Costs: You’ll need to invest in a good 3D printer, which can cost between $1,500 and $2,500. Don’t forget about the materials you’ll need!
- Market Research: Look into what items are popular. This can help you decide what to create and sell.
- Combine with Other Hustles: You can also share your 3D printing process on social media or create tutorials to attract more customers.
3D printing can be a side hustle that fits well with your other work. You don’t have to do it full-time to make money!
Final Thoughts on Engineering Side Hustles
In conclusion, exploring side hustles as an engineer can be a smart way to earn extra money while enhancing your skills. Whether you choose to freelance, teach, or create products, there are many options available. These side jobs not only help you make more cash but also allow you to try new things and grow your experience. So, if you’re looking to boost your income, consider diving into one of these engineering side hustles. They could lead to exciting opportunities and a brighter financial future!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good side hustles for engineers?
Engineers can consider several side hustles like freelance engineering work, consulting, technical writing, and app development.
How much time do I need to dedicate to a side hustle?
Most people spend about 10 to 15 hours a week on their side hustles, but this can vary depending on your schedule.
Can I do a side hustle while working full-time?
Yes, many engineers successfully manage side hustles alongside their full-time jobs.
What skills do I need to start a side hustle?
Skills vary by side hustle, but having technical knowledge, good communication, and time management skills can help.
Is it hard to find clients for freelance work?
Finding clients can be challenging initially, but using platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can make it easier.
How can I balance my side hustle with my personal life?
Setting a clear schedule and establishing boundaries can help you balance your side hustle with your personal life.