Design, evaluate, modify, or construct fuel cell components or systems for transportation, stationary, or portable applications.
SOC: 17-2141.01
Common Job Titles
Engineer
Fuel Cell Engineer
Research Engineer
Stack Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign fuel cell components and systems for transportation, stationary, and portable applications using CAD software and computational modeling tools.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize interdisciplinary knowledge from chemistry, physics, and mechanical engineering to solve complex fuel cell design challenges and improve energy conversion efficiency.
Advanced
KnowledgeDevelop computational models and simulations of fuel cell processes using MATLAB, Ansys Fluent, and thermodynamic analysis software.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze electrochemical performance data and test results using chromatography equipment, spectrometers, and statistical software to optimize fuel cell efficiency.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate fuel cell system performance against design specifications using fuel cell test stands and power analyzers in laboratory settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess material properties and catalytic performance using electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and thermal gravimetric analysis under controlled laboratory conditions.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret technical specifications and engineering drawings to fabricate and modify fuel cell prototypes for experimental testing.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate innovative fuel cell technologies and sustainable energy solutions when communicating with external stakeholders, management, and interdisciplinary project teams.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate safety protocols and regulatory compliance requirements throughout the design, testing, and manufacturing phases of fuel cell development.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate advanced analytical instrumentation including mass spectrometers, FTIR spectrometers, and scanning electron microscopes to characterize fuel cell materials and components under laboratory protocols.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate fuel cell test equipment and data acquisition systems using programmable logic controllers and SCADA software to ensure measurement accuracy.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Fuel Cell Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
286,760
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $68,740. 25th percentile: U.S. $81,800. 50th percentile: U.S. $102,320. 75th percentile: U.S. $130,290. 90th percentile: U.S. $161,240. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$68,740
10% of workers earn the following or more
$161,240
Workers on average earn
$110,080
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Engineering and Technology4.6/5
Chemistry4.0/5
Mathematics3.9/5
Design3.9/5
Physics3.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
