Turn Your Engineering Skills into Profitable Side Hustles

Are you an engineer looking to earn some extra cash on the side? With your technical expertise, there are many opportunities for you to turn your skills into profitable side hustles.

Engineering is a highly specialized field that requires extensive education and training. However, despite the high demand for engineering skills, many engineers struggle to find ways to monetize their expertise outside their 9-to-5 jobs.

Fortunately, there are several ways for engineers to leverage their skills and knowledge to earn extra income. From freelance consulting to creating and selling products, there are many avenues to explore.

You can also form an LLC for your side hustle to transform it into a more credible business venture while reaping the benefits of liability protection and pass-through taxation.

Why Should Engineers Do Side Hustles?

Engineers are constantly tinkering and testing new ideas, so it makes sense for them to branch out and try new things on the side. Side hustles can be a great way for engineers to test out new ideas, learn new skills, and make some extra money.

Here are a few reasons why engineers should consider doing side hustles:

• To Update skills: Side hustles can help engineers stay sharp and current on their skills. By trying new things on the side, engineers can keep their skills fresh and in demand.

• To Supplement Income: Side hustles can supplement an engineer’s income. While most engineering jobs pay well, not all pockets are equally deep. Side hustles can help bridge the gap between what an engineer earns at their day job and what they could earn in a more lucrative pursuit.

• To Build a Portfolio: Side hustles can be a way to build a portfolio of work. By starting small with side hustles and gradually building their portfolio, engineers can show potential employers they have the skills and experience necessary for a higher-paying job.

• To Explore Other Opportunities: Side hustles can also allow engineers to explore other fields and industries. For example, an engineer who works in the automotive industry might decide to pursue a side hustle in software development or web design. This would allow them to expand their skill set and potentially open up new career opportunities.

30 Top Side Hustle Ideas for Engineers

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most lucrative and rewarding side hustles for engineers. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or build a full-time business, there’s something here for everyone. 

1. Engineering Tuitions

Providing engineering tuition can be a great side hustle for engineers who want to use their expertise and knowledge of the profession to help others.

Tuition centres often seek experienced engineers to tutor or teach students in engineering topics such as math, physics, chemistry, coding, and design.

With the right qualifications and experience, engineers can become sought-after tutors in these areas.

2. Minor Engineering Projects

Engineering is a versatile field that offers plenty of opportunities to make some extra money. With a bit of ingenuity and creativity, engineers can easily take on minor engineering projects to supplement their main income.

Many engineers are adept at problem-solving, so they’re well-suited for odd jobs like helping people troubleshoot electronic appliances or build custom devices.

There’s also the potential to take on more ambitious projects, such as designing and manufacturing consumer products, developing software applications, or constructing environments for media production.

If your earnings from these projects exceed $600 and you receive a 1099 form, you can consider setting up an LLC to write off the equipment and material expenses you incur to complete the projects.

3. Engineering Consulting

Another lucrative side hustle for engineers is freelance engineering consulting. Companies of all sizes always seek experienced engineers to help them with specific projects or tasks.

As a consultant, you can offer your services in areas like product design and development, aerospace engineering, automotive engineering, and software engineering.

4. Online Courses

Engineering is a demanding and highly specialized field, but those with technical skills can turn that knowledge into a side hustle by creating and selling online courses.

Online courses allow engineers to share their expertise with others worldwide and earn additional income.

5. Software Development

Software development is another great side hustle for engineers with coding experience.

As an engineer, you can use your technical know-how to develop applications for businesses or individuals. 

Software development can be a lucrative side hustle because businesses and individuals always seek reliable and innovative applications to help them manage their operations or accomplish tasks.

With the right skills, you can build a successful career in software development.

6. Software Consulting Services

Engineers can pursue several software consulting services as side hustles.

These services can help engineers with their software development projects and teach them new skills.

One option is to work as a consultant for a software development company.

This could involve working on specific projects for the company or coaching other engineers in developing their own software.

7. 3D Printing

One popular side hustle option for engineers is 3D printing. This versatile tool can be used for a variety of purposes.

You can create objects for your own use or for sale to other businesses or individuals. It’s also a great way to explore new design ideas and learn more about engineering principles.

8. Drone Photography/Videography

Engineers interested in drones can start a side hustle and make some extra money.

Drone technology has become increasingly popular over the past few years, and there are numerous ways to use it to make money.

One of engineers’ most common side hustles is working as a drone photographer or videographer.

Companies, businesses, and even individuals hire drone operators to capture stunning images or videos for promotional purposes.

9. Adjunct Engineering Professor

Adjunct engineering professors can teach classes online, work as consultants, or freelance for clients.

As an adjunct engineering professor, you’ll likely teach various classes, from introductory courses to more specialized ones.

You’ll also be able to offer student services like tutoring and advising.

10. Repairman

One of the most popular side hustles that engineers can engage in to make some extra money is repairing.

Engineers with mechanical or electrical backgrounds can often fix things that others can’t, which can help you earn a lot of money.

It’s important to have proper tools, know how to use them, and have a good attitude and willingness to work hard.

11. Blog or Vlog on Engineering

A blog or vlog on engineering can be a great way to share knowledge and insights about the field.

Engineers can use their platform to discuss various topics related to engineering, such as new technologies, innovative designs, and industry trends.

They can also share their experiences and offer advice to aspiring engineers.

12. Engineering Podcast

Podcasting can be a great way to share your knowledge with others and make some side income.

If you’re interested in starting a podcast, your first step is to research the process. After that, you must create a podcasting platform and start recording episodes.

Creating a successful podcast can take a bit of time, but the payoff can be worth it.

13. Develop Product Prototypes

Prototyping involves creating a model or sample version of a product to test the design and functionality of an idea before it is put into production.

As an engineer, you can create a product prototype and then license it to a company that will sell the product.

This can be a great way to turn your engineering skills into a lucrative side hustle.

14. Freelance Technical Writing

If you’re an engineer with a knack for writing, there are plenty of side hustles you can pursue as a freelance technical writer.

One option is to start writing content for online platforms like Crunchbase and LinkedIn.

These sites offer an opportunity to share your expertise with a wider audience and earn money.

15. YouTube Channel for Engineers 

Starting a YouTube channel for engineers can be a great way to share knowledge, showcase projects, and connect with others in the field.

To begin, it’s important to identify your niche and target audience. This could be anything from mechanical engineering to software development. 

Once you have a focus, create a plan for your content, including video topics, filming locations, and a production schedule.

Make sure to invest in quality equipment, such as a camera, microphone, and editing software, to ensure professional-looking videos. 

16. Career Counselor for Engineering Students

A career counselor for engineering students provides guidance and advice to students pursuing engineering careers.

As a side hustle, this could involve working with students part-time or freelance, helping them identify their strengths and interests, exploring different career options within the engineering field, and developing a plan for achieving their goals. 

This could be a rewarding side hustle for someone with a background in engineering or a related field who enjoys working with people and helping them achieve their goals.

17. Write on Engineering Topics

Writing on engineering topics as a side hustle can be a lucrative opportunity for those with a background in engineering or a passion for the field.

As technology advances, there is a growing need for content that explains complex engineering concepts in a way accessible to the general public.

This is where engineering writers come in—they can translate technical jargon into easy-to-understand language.

18. Car Repair Services

Engineering and car mechanics are compatible professions, making car repair services an ideal side hustle for engineers.

This offers the opportunity to work with automobiles and allows access to various components and tools that enhance mechanical know-how.

Car repair services can be started in many ways, from opening your own shop or offering mobile mechanics services to finding freelance contracts with garages and dealerships.

Although starting a car repair business requires some initial investment, it can be a great way to earn extra income and develop additional engineering skills.

19. AutoCAD Services

If you’re an engineer looking for a side hustle to supplement your income, consider offering AutoCAD services.

AutoCAD software is a powerful tool used by engineers, architects, and designers to create detailed 2D and 3D drawings.

By providing CAD services, you can help clients create the exact designs they need for their projects.

20. Coding Classes

For engineers with a knack for coding and teaching, offering coding classes can be an ideal side hustle.

Teaching coding allows you to combine your technical knowledge with your communication and interpersonal skills while earning some extra income.

Coding classes can range from beginner courses in HTML and CSS to more advanced classes in areas like web development or software engineering.

Depending on your level of expertise and experience, you can offer courses via an online platform or in person.

21. IT Services

IT services have long been one of the main opportunities for engineers to generate additional income.

With the growing demand for IT systems and applications, IT professionals have countless opportunities to provide their services on a freelance or contract basis.

IT services can include various activities, from setting up networks and servers to troubleshooting software or hardware issues.

Engineers may also be called upon to implement new technologies or provide ongoing system maintenance and support.

22. Create Websites

As an engineer, you can create websites as a side hustle to supplement your income.

There are many ways to enter this field, and your approach will determine the amount of time and money you can earn.

If you have coding experience, you could develop custom websites for clients from scratch using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

You could also create websites using a website builder tool or popular content management systems like WordPress.

23. Engineering SEO Consultant

One lucrative side gig for engineers is to become an engineering SEO consultant.

SEO stands for ‘Search Engine Optimization’ and involves optimizing websites to appear higher up in the results of popular search engines like Google and Bing.

24. Write a Book 

Another side hustle is writing a book. For engineers, this could be a technical book or any other type of nonfiction related to their expertise.

Writing a book can be a great way to make some extra income, showcase your knowledge, and develop personal branding opportunities.

25. Resume Writing Services for Engineers

Engineering professionals can use their expertise and training to provide resume-writing services to other engineers looking for new job opportunities.

Resume writing is a critical part of the job search process, so many engineers could benefit from having someone with an engineering background review their resumes and offer suggestions to improve the document.

26. Yoga Instructor

Yoga is quickly becoming a popular fitness routine, with many people turning to it for stress relief and overall better physical and mental health.

For engineers looking to explore new career options or simply make extra income on the side, becoming a yoga instructor may be the perfect side hustle.

27. Pet Care Services

Engineers looking to make some extra money might want to consider offering pet care services as a side hustle.

This type of business can be very rewarding, allowing you to work with animals and make a positive impact on the lives of pet owners who may have difficulty caring for their furry friends.

28. Open an Engineering Products Store

Opening an engineering products store is a great side hustle for engineers.

This type of business can be run from home or online, or if you have the resources and space, you may even want to open a brick-and-mortar store. 

As an engineer, you have the knowledge necessary to source the best products, understand their functions, and support customers looking for solutions to their engineering needs.

Additionally, you could offer custom engineering services to provide further value to your customers.

29. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a great way for engineers to use their marketing and technical skills to make money on the side.

Promoting products from other companies through your website or blog and earning a commission when someone buys the product through your link.

This can be very lucrative, especially if you have a large audience or can target potential customers who are likely to buy the product.

30. Flip Electronics

Flipping electronics is a great way to leverage your engineering skills into a profitable side hustle. By finding and refurbishing used electronics, you can make money by reselling them at higher prices than what you paid.

How to Start a Side Hustle in 5 Steps?

Engineers are uniquely positioned to start side businesses as they have the technical knowledge required to do so. With that said, starting a side hustle isn’t always easy. To help you get started, here are five steps to successful side hustling:

• Identify Your Niche: It is important to identify your niche before starting a side hustle. This will help you narrow down your focus and determine what services or products you will offer.

• Research Your Market: Before launching your side hustle, it’s important to research the market for your product or service. You need to know who your target customers are and what their needs are.

• Create a Plan: Create a plan for your side hustle that outlines the steps you will take to get started, such as what services or products you will offer and how much you plan on charging.

• Test Your Idea: Once you have a plan in place, it’s time to start testing your idea. You can start by launching a small-scale version of your side hustle to get some initial feedback from customers.

• Launch Your Side Hustle: Once you have tested your idea and received positive feedback, it’s time to launch your side hustle. This includes setting up a website, creating a marketing strategy, and getting the word out about your services or products.

Take doola’s Help in Launching Your Side Hustle

Engineering is a field that can offer many opportunities, and side hustles can be a great way to supplement income and expand your knowledge base.

Whether you are looking for an extra job or just want to explore different options, there are plenty of rewarding side hustles for engineers.

Most of the side hustles discussed here allow engineers to use their technical skills and knowledge creatively.

But first, you need to consider the entity type you want for your side gig to manage compliance, taxes and bookkeeping. Luckily, doola can help!

Allow your creative and technical juices to flow, and streamline these tedious administrative tasks with our automated bookkeeping and Total Compliance solutions so you focus on launching and making your side hustle a roaring success!

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