Environmental Logo

SOE's specialist sector for operations engineers


Operations engineers work to optimise the efficiency, safety and sustainability of industrial processes and infrastructure, whether employed in manufacturing, production, utilities, construction, transport or defence. They are responsible for maintaining performance and meeting the standards required by legislation. The role may include:

  • Identifying and prioritising requirements, such as safety, efficiency and reducing emissions
  • Monitoring and reporting on operation
  • Evaluating process design and implementing changes.

Members of the Operations professional sector have expertise and knowledge in common across a broad range of employers. This facilitates sharing core skills and principles of best practice and provides opportunities to collaborate on innovative solutions to challenges.

Many members are registered with the Engineering Council as Incorporated or Chartered Engineers (IEng or CEng). Some have also taken up the opportunity to apply for Registered Environmental Practitioner (REnvP) or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) with the Society for the Environment (SocEnv).

Membership of the Society provides access to CPD resources and technical publications including the quarterly Operations Engineer magazine.

Ready to take the next step?

Join SOE today

Join SOE Today!
Closing the Engineering Skills Gap: How SOE is Strengthening the Engineering Talent Pipeline

The UK engineering industry is facing a skills crisis, intensified by factors including an aging workforce and advances in technology. Demand for skilled technicians and engineers significantly outweighs supply, and the need for a highly trained, professionally recognised workforce is clear.

Raising the Bar: How Evolving Standards Are Transforming Lorry Loader Crane Safety

The safety, reliability, and performance of lorry loader cranes are undergoing major improvements thanks to updated design requirements, new regulatory changes, and more robust safety and performance standards. These developments are reshaping how operators, manufacturers, and inspectors approach the use, maintenance, and thorough examination of this essential lifting equipment.

Zurich Engineering and SOE Partnership Empowers Over 400 Staff Through Professional Membership

The Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) is celebrating a major milestone in its ongoing partnership with Zurich Engineering with more than 400 employees signing up to become members of SOE, marking a landmark achievement in the organisations’ shared mission to champion professional standards across the engineering and operations sectors.

View all resources

 

Latest SOE events
Screenshot 2025-11-26 104102.png
Tyre Safe Presentation
Join us as we welcome Stuart Lovatt, Chairman of TyreSafe, to the Centre for an insightful presentation on the charity’s vital work in promoting tyre safety. Learn about the importance of proper tyre maintenance and management, and the serious risks posed by defective or illegal tyres.
table-setting-6859274_1280.jpg
Cornwall IRTE Christmas Dinner
Join us for this Cornwall IRTE Christmas Dinner, a festive evening of good food, networking, and celebration with fellow members.

Find and book events