Around the time of independence, most of the jobs for engineers were in the government. Initial period of post-independence period witnessed the creation of the public sector wherein large industrial organizations were set up offering employment opportunities to engineers in large numbers. Infrastructure development was also in the government domain. Working in the government controlled sector implied a permanent job with the same employer for the entire working career. Lateral entry at senior levels was limited and so also mobility as a result thereof. Promotions were based on seniority. Retrenchments and layoff were rare, if at all.

In recent years, the private sector has been developing at a fast rate. Public sector as well as infrastructure activities are being opened to the private sector for investment. In the years to come, private sector employment of engineers will expand further and, due to disinvestment and privatizations, employment currently in the government controlled sector will also shift, at least partially, to the private sector.