Total 14,069 Full-time design engineer job vacancies

Join the Government Sector and play a key role in driving the digital transformation of government agencies through the Government Commercial Cloud (GCC) platform. As a Senior Cloud Solutions Engineer, you will guide solution design, mentor engineers, and supporting agencies in adopting modern cloud technologies and architecture.

Location: Punggol (Hybrid)
Job Type: Contract (Renewable basis)

Key Responsibilities

• Lead solution architecture and technical design reviews for complex customer engagements.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to Solutions Engineers on implementations and best practices.
• Act as the technical escalation point for complex issues, blockers, and customer requirements.
• Define and maintain solution engineering standards, reusable frameworks, and technical playbooks.
• Review and approve solution proposals, technical specifications, and proof-of-concept outcomes.
• Collaborate with Product, Customer Success, Architects, and SMEs to drive successful solution delivery.
• Gather field feedback and recommend improvements to products, processes, and customer experience

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline
• Min. 4 years of experience in Solutions Engineering, Cloud Engineering, Technical Consulting, or related roles.
• Strong understanding of cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale technology solutions.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to translate technical concepts into business-friendly recommendations.
• Experience working with enterprise customers and managing complex technical engagements.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

By submitting your resume, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information per ScienTec’s Privacy Policy (scientecconsulting.com/privacy-policy).

This authorizes us to:

• Contact you about potential opportunities.

• Delete personal data as it is not required at this application stage.

All applications will be processed with strict confidence. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Elaine Wong (Zoe) l Outsourcing Team

ScienTec Consulting Pte Ltd - 11C5781

About the role

We are looking for a capable Process Design Engineer (Black Utilities) to support the design, coordination, and optimization of utility systems such as chilled water, heating hot water, compressed air, and steam systems. This role involves system sizing and calculation, layout development, equipment selection, and cross-disciplinary technical coordination. 

Responsibilities 

• Design black utility systems, including chilled water, heating hot water, compressed air, and steam systems.

• Perform system calculations for the above utilities and develop related system layouts, piping arrangements, and equipment specifications.

• Prepare datasheets for utility equipment and valves, and participate in technical bid evaluations.

• Maintain strong knowledge of commonly used utility equipment brands, including their features and performance characteristics.

• Coordinate with other disciplines, review returned design documents, and ensure compliance with project requirements and process standards.

• Track industry trends and support company marketing efforts and technical presentations when needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or above in HVAC, Energy, Thermal Engineering, or a related discipline.

• At least 5 years of experience in utility system design, heating/cooling source systems, or engineering management.

• Proficient in CAD and other relevant design software.

• Strong knowledge of cleanroom design standards and specifications.

• Good communication and presentation skills, with a strong sense of responsibility and self-discipline.

• Mandarin language skills are required for coordination with Mandarin-speaking stakeholders. 
  

  If interested, please submit your application to cvs@jdawms.com with your expected salary and resume.

  We regret that only short-listed candidates will be contacted shortly. By submitting your application or resume, you agree to the collection, use, retention, and sharing of your personal information with potential employers for their assessment.

  JDA WMS Pte Ltd | EA Personnel: Pham Thi Tuyet Mai

  EA License No: 23S1595 | EA Registration No: R25127838

~ 5 days work week, Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm

~ Location: Suntec

~ No experience is welcome to apply! On the job training is provided

~ 6 months contract and convertible to permanent based on performance

Our client is a solar energy solution provider in Singapore

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for operational level understanding of the requirement of the client/customer, Site Visits, Site feasibility & Solar Systems Design and complete execution. Able to check site feasibility and provide the best suitable option for enhancing suitability.
• Designing of arrangements of the solar panels for Rooftop & Ground Mounted PV system including layouts, Single line diagram (SLD), schematic diagrams, calculation of sizing and BOQ of material. Highly experienced with Autocad.
• Drawing/Document submission/approvals, scheduling, Factory inspections, proving the guaranteed prepared a generalized check list for review of all standard. End to end execution of solar projects (Rooftop & Ground Mounted) and Service Support.
• Familiar with PV simulation software such as PVsyst and Helioscope.
• In addition to the above-mentioned duties and responsibilities, any other assignments given occasionally or daily by the immediate reporting officer

Requirements:

• Possesses minimum Degree in Electrical Engineering/Renewable energy-related field
• Minimum 1.5 year of experience in handling solar projects preferred
• No experience is welcome to apply! On the job training is provided
• Has knowledge in electrical design concepts

HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants, please click on “Apply Now” or email to ref32@stafflink.com.sg to submit your resume.
We regret only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Stafflink Services Pte Ltd
EA Licence No.: 04C4294
EA Personnel: Jason Bong Wee Kiat
EA Personnel Reg. No.: R23116067

Responsibilities:

• Develop, document, and support the fabrication of high-precision plastic injection tooling and molded components for manufacturing.
• Assist the Program team during new project quotations by providing accurate DFM (Design for Manufacturing) analysis to ensure tooling and product meet quality standards.
• Collaborate with customers on DFM and mold concept reviews, addressing technical requirements and concerns.
• Support the Tooling Department by conducting internal tooling design and DFM reviews prior to tool launch.
• Assist Production in molding process optimization, implementing manufacturing fixtures and automation to enhance reliability and efficiency.
• Support the Quality Team in designing and fabricating test and measurement fixtures.
• Coordinate mold trials, troubleshoot tooling and molded parts, and implement engineering changes to ensure smooth production with required quality standards.

Qualifications:

• Strong technical and analytical skills with a keen interest in problem-solving.
• Self-motivated team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience or knowledge in engineering design, manufacturing processes, or tooling is an advantage.
• Proficient in 3D CAD or other engineering design software.

We regret only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. All applications will be handled confidentially. By submitting your application, you agree to the collection, use, retention, and disclosure of your personal information to prospective employers.

Wecruit Pte Ltd

EA License No: 20C0270

EA Personnel: Nyon Hock Sen (Aden)

EA Personnel Reg No: R24124070

5 days, 8.30am-6.15pm

Salary: $3500- $6000

Location: Ubi 

Company background:

Specializes in Semiconductor Backend Tooling including Die Attach Tools, Wire Bond Tools & Bond Test Tools

Job Responsibilities:

• Design and development of Semiconductor Tools and mechanical systems.
• Planning, Scheduling and Costing of Tools and Mechanical Modules
• Responsible for 3D & 2D drawings, tolerance analysis, BOM preparation.
• Working closely with Electrical, Vision and Software Engineers.
• Willing to work extended hours in critical phases of project execution.

Job Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Technical disciplines.
• Minimum 3 years of design experiences in semiconductor tooling
• Experience with Design and Development of High-Speed Pick and Place Systems, Flip Chip Bonders, Die Attach Machines, and Lamination Machine is a definite plus
• Proficiency with CAD Software is a must.
• Experience with vision application, thermal modelling, calculation and measurement techniques would be an advantage.

Kelly Chong Reg No:R26161160

The Supreme HR Advisory Pte Ltd EA No: 14C7279

5 days, 8.30am-6.15pm

Salary: $3500- $6000

Location: Ubi 

Company background:

Specializes in Semiconductor Backend Tooling including Die Attach Tools, Wire Bond Tools & Bond Test Tools

Job Responsibilities:

• Design and development of Semiconductor Tools and mechanical systems.
• Planning, Scheduling and Costing of Tools and Mechanical Modules
• Responsible for 3D & 2D drawings, tolerance analysis, BOM preparation.
• Working closely with Electrical, Vision and Software Engineers.
• Willing to work extended hours in critical phases of project execution.

Job Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Technical disciplines.
• Minimum 3 years of design experiences in semiconductor tooling
• Experience with Design and Development of High-Speed Pick and Place Systems, Flip Chip Bonders, Die Attach Machines, and Lamination Machine is a definite plus
• Proficiency with CAD Software is a must.
• Experience with vision application, thermal modelling, calculation and measurement techniques would be an advantage.

Kelly Chong Reg No:R26161160

The Supreme HR Advisory Pte Ltd EA No: 14C7279

5 days, 8.30am-6.15pm

Salary: $3500- $6000

Location: Ubi 

Company background:

Specializes in Semiconductor Backend Tooling including Die Attach Tools, Wire Bond Tools & Bond Test Tools

Job Responsibilities:

• Design and development of Semiconductor Tools and mechanical systems.
• Planning, Scheduling and Costing of Tools and Mechanical Modules
• Responsible for 3D & 2D drawings, tolerance analysis, BOM preparation.
• Working closely with Electrical, Vision and Software Engineers.
• Willing to work extended hours in critical phases of project execution.

Job Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Technical disciplines.
• Minimum 3 years of design experiences in semiconductor tooling
• Experience with Design and Development of High-Speed Pick and Place Systems, Flip Chip Bonders, Die Attach Machines, and Lamination Machine is a definite plus
• Proficiency with CAD Software is a must.
• Experience with vision application, thermal modelling, calculation and measurement techniques would be an advantage.

Kelly Chong Reg No:R26161160

The Supreme HR Advisory Pte Ltd EA No: 14C7279

Job Responsibilities:

Hyperscale Server Design Engineer is responsible for designing, validating, and optimizing high-performance server hardware, racks, and infrastructure systems to support massive-scale cloud computing environments. Responsibilities include:

• Conduct server feasibility studies, define and maintain hardware architectures and solutions, and create execution plan.

• Design schematic, create BOM, support prototype/engineering build.

• Guide and work with PCB engineers on layout and placement.

• Design, deploy, and operate large-scale GPU-based compute environments, including optimizing network topologies like InfiniBand and Ethernet.

• Lead server validation and bringing up complex systems, including lab validation, SI/PI (Signal Integrity/Power Integrity) analysis, and debugging.

• Partner with software, datacenter engineering, mechanical and thermal, and vendor teams to ensure seamless hardware/software integration. Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions.

• Apply advanced knowledge of server energy efficiency and power redundancy to optimize for performance and cost.

• Work with manufacturing teams to resolve issues and to support NPI and production builds.

• Provide technical expertise and consultation to peers.

• Maintain consistent high quality of engineering design work to develop robust, high performance and cost effective designs and products.
  

Job Requirements:

• Degree/Master in Electrical/Electronic/Computer Engineering or equivalent

• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in computer architecture, server design or hardware validation.

• Strong design experience and knowledge in any of the following:

  • Knowledge of GPU/CPU architectures, high-speed interfaces (QSFP-DD/OSFP) and memory interfaces such as DDRx DRAM, NAND/NOR/SPI Flash.

  • High speed interfaces including PCIe, NVLink, GbE, SAS, USB.

  • BMC implementations.

  • High DC voltage power designs and distribution, and thermal management.

  • High-speed Ethernet networking.

  • Experience with liquid cooling is an advantage.

• Understanding integration of software and hardware.

• NPI project execution experience and familiarity with Product Development Life Cycle will be desirable.

• Experience using CAD tools (e.g. Cadence Allegro, Mentor PAD).

• Experience with SI/PI simulation (e.g. ANSYS HFSS/SIWave) and lab equipment like high-speed oscilloscopes and VNAs are added advantage.

• Familiar with ISO9001.

• Troubleshooting skills in high-speed signaling, thermal or power delivery.

• Self motivated and willing to learn new technology and skills who works well under pressure.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Key Responsibilities Key Responsibilities

RTL Design and Verification

• Develop synthesizable RTL in Verilog/SystemVerilog for custom on-chip test, monitoring, and diagnostic IP targeting analog and mixed-signal failure detection.
• Design and verify digital logic blocks such as test controllers, sequencing logic, sensor/interface control logic, measurement and monitoring logic, data capture and comparison logic, and failure detection and reporting logic.
• Build clean register and bus-connected interfaces, for example APB, AHB, or AXI-lite based control and status paths, to enable firmware interaction and subsystem integration.
• Develop testbenches, assertions, checkers, and block or subsystem-level verification environments to validate controller behavior, detection logic, configuration programming, fault response, and status reporting.
• Plan and execute functional verification for normal, corner, negative, and fault-injection scenarios, with adequate coverage of critical diagnostic behaviors.
• Collaborate with analog and mixed-signal designers to create or use behavioral models, stubs, and interface abstractions for realistic verification of failure mechanisms and observability paths.
• Debug RTL and simulation issues through waveform analysis, assertion-based checks, root-cause investigation, and close interaction with integration and product teams.
• Ensure the RTL is modular, reusable, timing-aware, synthesis-friendly, and scalable for integration across multiple SoC derivatives.

SoC Integration

• Integrate custom DFT / diagnostic IP into SoC subsystems and system-level test architecture with proper consideration for clock/reset structure, interrupt handling, and status visibility.
• Work closely with SoC integration and DFT teams to ensure compatibility with system test infrastructure, production test flows, diagnostic mechanisms, and firmware control requirements.
• Support integration readiness by addressing CDC, reset interactions, timing considerations, low-power implications, and implementation handoff requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with digital, analog, and mixed-signal design teams, DFT engineers, SoC architects, and product/test engineering teams throughout the design and validation cycle.
• Translate analog or mixed-signal failure modes into robust digital detection logic suitable for on-chip test, screening, and diagnosis.
• Contribute to technical discussions on architecture tradeoffs, observability strategy, and practical silicon debug readiness.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field, with 5–7 years of relevant experience.
• Strong hands-on experience in RTL design using Verilog/SystemVerilog.
• Practical experience in RTL verification, simulation, and debugging methodologies.
• Solid understanding of ASIC / SoC design flow including coding, simulation, synthesis, and integration.
• Good foundation in digital design concepts such as FSM design, datapath design, bus protocols (AXI/AHB/APB), clock-domain handling, reset strategy, and timing considerations.
• Experience working in complex SoC environments with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing control, monitoring, or diagnostic IP associated with analog or mixed-signal subsystems.
• Exposure to behavioral modeling or interface definition for analog and mixed-signal verification use cases.
• Familiarity with subsystem-level integration, production screening considerations, and silicon debug support.
• Working knowledge of scripting or automation for verification, regression, or design productivity is an advantage.

Description:

• You would be part of a dynamic digital SoC design team that develops state-of-the-art video processing, neural processing, advanced video analytics accelerators, and the entire Camera Processor SoC. You would be joining the team to explore, evaluate and define innovative design SoC architectures, to meet or exceed the technical requirements of the SoC. You would be responsible for the successful implementation of the designs in Verilog/SystemVerilog coding, metrics measurement to meet key objectives & results, and follow-through in comprehensive verifications to successful silicon.

Requirements:

• Experience in SoC architecture and design, and RTL coding with Verilog/SystemVerilog
• Experience in ARM or RISC-V processor system
• Experience in embedded C and assembly code programming
• Experience in analysis of power, timing and area
• Experience in at least one of scripting languages (e.g. Perl, Python, TCL, or Bash)
• Disciplined, quality-minded, and highly driven for excellence
• Excellent team player and good communication skills
• MSEE/BSEE in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering, with 8 years of relevant experience
• Experience in always-on system, automotive system, secured system, bus interconnect, neural processing, video processing and video analytics is a plus
• Experience in system modelling and simulation using emulator and SystemC is a plus
• Experience in UVM verification methodology is a plus
• Passionate and strong in general programming is a plus

Responsibilities

1. Develop design requirements for an NPU based on system-level specifications.
2. Being part of modelling the performance of the NPU module and its data transaction throughput.
3. Microarchitecture design and RTL coding using Verilog / System Verilog HDL for various sub-blocks of the NPU.
4. Understanding the mathematics of different convolution operators including different arithmetic formats (fixed point and floating point)
5. Estimate, measure and optimize PPA (Performance / Power / Area) to meet key objectives and results.
6. Optimizing micro-architecture design for low power and area is required.
7. Work closely with verification engineers to ensure comprehensive testing and debug any issues.
8. Support integration into the overall system, conducting design checks, and addressing lint/timing/CDC issues.
9. Collaborate with software teams to assist in compiler and toolchain development and their debugging.
10. Produce clear and concise design documentation.

Requirements

1. 5+ years of digital design with at least 2 to 3 years of SoC design experience is preferred.
2. At least one cycle of NPU design completion experience is required.
3. Hands on experience in digital design is a must.
4. Experience in microarchitecture design, and RTL coding with Verilog/ System-Verilog.
5. Experience in synthesis, with analysis of power, timing and area.
6. Disciplined, quality-minded, and highly driven for excellence.
7. Excellent team player and good communication skills.
8. MSEE/BSEE in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
9. Understanding of convolution operator and number system is required.
10. Candidates with relevant experiences would be offered as Senior, taking on higher responsibilities.
11. Experience in UVM verification methodology is a plus.
12. A plus to have SoC design experience.
13. Experience with optimizing micro-architectures for low-power and low-area is a plus.
14. Knowledge in deep learning algorithms such as CNN / Transformer is a plus.
15. Experience with past design experience with NPU / GPU / DSP design is a plus.
16. Experience with ARM or RISC-V processor systems is a plus.
17. Passionate and strong in general programming is a plus.

1.       Determined appropriate construction methods, materials, and quality standards by reviewing and coordinating structural design and shop drawings to ensure compliance with project specifications and relevant codes.

2.       Drafted, interpreted, and reviewed engineering drawings, technical specifications, and construction procedures to ensure accuracy, constructability, and adherence to design intent.

3.       Coordinated with consultants, contractors, and fabrication teams to resolve technical design issues and implement necessary drawing amendments.

4.       Prepared and submitted technical documentation, including design approval requests and revised drawings, ensuring proper document control and compliance with quality management systems.

5.       Monitored design modifications, assessed their impact on construction methodology and project progress, and facilitated necessary revisions to maintain alignment with approved designs.

6.       Reviewed and checked structural design calculations provided by consultants for temporary and permanent works, ensuring operation team can met design requirements and were suitable for safe execution.

7.       Established and maintained coordination between design and site teams to support effective execution of construction activities.

8.       Provided technical support to the construction team by addressing reinforcement and structural queries raised during inspections and site activities.

9.       Maintained updated records of structural components and construction progress to ensure accurate documentation and tracking of completed works.

At Aleph, we design human experiences by asking the right questions. Here, you’d find a curious breed of creative engineers spread across the globe, specializing in craft, strategy, and technology. With a keen ear to the ground, we turn big dreams into user-first digital solutions by design. Through rigorous prototyping, close collaboration, and responsive engineering, we commit to creating a future that leaves our craft, community, and clients better than before we began.

We are looking for Experience Design Lead, you will drive the evolution of digital ecosystems, harnessing AI, and human-centered strategy to create transformative experiences. You are a maker and storyteller—a leader who blends creativity, data, and emerging technologies to shape the future of digital interactions.

This full-time role is based in Singapore and requires hands-on collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and technology partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Leverage AI-powered design tools to accelerate creativity and prototype at scale.
• Utilise frameworks and tools to discover and ideate strategic models to address complex challenges.
• Demonstrate expertise in UX tools such as customer journeys, persona archetypes, service blueprints, and testing methodologies. Design Fundamentals and Tools
• Apply design functions to produce unique design elements (e.g. Typography, Colours, Iconography, Retouching).
• Incorporate innovative technologies in strategy development, while demonstrating familiarity with industry tools such as Figma, Adobe Suite, and Midjourney. Presentation and Storytelling
• Present and communicate complex strategic concepts to varied audiences, facilitating stakeholder alignment and buy-in.
• Inspire, present, and communicate ideas through compelling storytelling and writing to underscore design decisions.
• Task Prioritisation and Planning
• Lead and manage intricate strategic projects, driving them from inception to successful conclusion.
• Use advanced project planning and management tools to ensure efficient execution and delivery of strategic initiatives. Creative Leadership and Execution
• Apply design functions (and taste) to produce unique design elements (e.g., Typography, Colours, Iconography, Retouching).
• Collaborate with project managers/scrum coaches to devise a design plan and deliverables, demonstrating understanding of SCRUM.
• Mentor and lead cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of curiosity and experimentation. ○ Partner with developers, strategists, and business teams to bring concepts from ideation to execution, integrating design ops and automation.
• Understand the influence of solid strategy on user experience, particularly in tech and AI contexts.
• Embrace constructive feedback, exhibiting resilience and a consistent desire to evolve your strategic acumen.

Prerequisites

• 6+ years of experience as a Senior UX Designer or similar role
• Proficient in Figma, Adobe Suite, and Midjourney
• Strong presentation and storytelling skills
• Integrate AI into research, design, and delivery workflows to accelerate strategy and prototyping
• Use generative AI to create new storytelling formats, design assets, and innovative user experiences
• Collaborate with management and cross-functional teams to grow reputation, business, and talent
• Partner with Growth Team on business development: proposals, approaches, and client presentations
• Identify market and project opportunities with business teams
• Translate insights and briefs into actionable strategies and solutions
• Uphold creative quality across all project outputs and deliveries
• Mentor and support team members to ensure productivity and well-being

Benefits

• Competitive salary (compensation will be based on experience)
• Medical insurance
• A solid team behind you: great people who love what they do
• A fun and a fast paced culture which promotes learning and knowledge sharing
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth offerings.

Get in touch

Please visit www.aleph-labs.com or drop us an email at careers.sg@aleph-labs.com.

Aleph is an equal opportunity employer and we work in an engaging, collaborative environment, where ideas are shared freely. By uncovering insights and opportunities, we inspire everyone to dream big towards the future solutions.

• Managing the overall design process for civil and infrastructure projects from design development to construction stage.

• Coordinate and interface with various stakeholders including civil, structural, geotechnical, and M&E consultants, as well as LTA, authorities, and contractors.

• Review and evaluate technical submissions, design drawings, and reports to ensure compliance with statutory requirements and design intent.

• Support in managing the design schedule to ensure timely delivery of all design packages according to project milestones.

• Participate in design and technical meetings, identifying and resolving design discrepancies and constructability issues.

• Ensure authority submissions are prepared accurately and submitted on time; follow through until approvals are obtained.

• Implement and monitor design quality assurance/control systems and ensure that all designs meet relevant safety, environmental, and sustainability standards.

• Assist in the evaluation of design changes, variation proposals, and value engineering opportunities.

• Any other duties that assigned by a superior.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering recognized by PE Board Singapore

• Min 12 years of engineering experience and at least 8 years of experience in the design of civil and infrastructure project structures of similar scale, complexity and nature of work. Preference will be given to candidate with LTA experience.

• Strong technical understanding of civil and structural engineering design, construction methods, and sequencing.

• Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, and other relevant design software.

• Good team player, self-motivated with strong ability to multi-task and able to handle fast-paced projects.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and coordination skills.

Job Description:

• Lead preparation, coordination, and monitoring of project submission and progress
• Plan and collaborate closely with Project Managers and site teams to align design deliverables with site execution plans and overall project schedules.
• Coordinate closely with Design Consultants,and technical departments to ensure design quality, milestone and timeline are met
• Review and coordinate withDesign Consultants to ensure submission packages are compliant and constructable
• Monitor submission plans andapproval plans status
• Lead and support interfacing coordination with other project stakeholders, land owners, and authority/agency etc.
• Prepare and present progress report, schedule forecast and design status updates for management and client review.

Job Requirements:

• Five (5) years relevant experience in Singapore LTA cycling path project, pedestrian improvement works and/or street works with a Main-Contractor environment
• Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering recognized by PE Board or qualification accepted by the Commissioner of Building Control for registration as Resident Engineer
• Experience with DesignConsultant on submission and requirement with relevant nature of project (e.g.Cycling Path network, Street Works, Road Works etc.) will be an advantage
• Familiarity with relevant agency and authority regulation on street works
• Candidates with experience in LTA project environment are preferred