Mechanical Engineers
Additional Information
Duties
Doing the following is customary for mechanical engineers:
- Analyze problems to determine whether mechanical and thermal devices may be used to address them.
- Create new mechanical or thermal devices or subsystems utilizing computer-aided engineering and analysis.
- Determine the cause of equipment malfunctions and challenges in order to make recommendations on how to fix them.
- Prototypes of devices they're working on.
- Examine the test outcomes and make adjustments to the design or system if necessary.
- Ensure the device's production is under control.
Mechanical engineering encompasses a wide range of disciplines. From medical equipment to new batteries, mechanical engineers are responsible for designing and overseeing the production of a wide range of items.
Mechanical engineers create both power-generating and power-consuming machines, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, steam turbines, and gas turbines.
Elevators and escalators are among the numerous machinery that mechanical engineers create for use within structures. Conveyor systems and automated transfer stations are examples of the material-handling systems they create.
In the same way that all other engineers, mechanical engineers rely heavily on computers. Sensors, controls, and machines are often integrated by mechanical engineers. Mechanical engineers use computer technology to construct and evaluate designs, perform simulations and test how a machine is expected to operate, interface with related systems, and provide specifications for parts.
Mechanical engineers fall into one of the following categories:
Automobile engineers are working to increase the performance of their vehicles. These engineers work to enhance the suspension, aerodynamics, and potential new fuels of automobiles.
Systems for heating and air conditioning Engineers design, build, and maintain environmental systems that must adhere to strict tolerances for temperature and humidity. They create these systems for aircraft, trains, automobiles, schools, and even computer rooms.
Automaton designers, builders, and maintainers are robotic engineers. They build the robots' designs to incorporate sensors for identifying objects based on light or scent, and they plan how these sensors will be used.
Education
Bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technologies are normally required to become a mechanical engineer. Math, life and physical sciences, and engineering are all common components of mechanical engineering curricula. Students in mechanical engineering technology programs focus less on theory and more on actual application. They may highlight the importance of internships and co-ops in preparing students for the workforce.
Students can get both a bachelor's and a master's degree in only five years at some institutions and universities. Cooperative programs that combine classroom learning with practical work can help students obtain useful experience and earn money to pay for part of their education over the course of five or six years.
Programs in engineering and engineering technology are accredited by ABET. A recognized college or university is preferred by most companies. To become a licensed professional engineer, you typically need a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering institution.
Qualities that are critical to success
Creativity. Mechanical engineers are responsible for the design and construction of large, sophisticated machines. This type of job needs a very imaginative imagination.
Listening comprehension. Architects and computer scientists regularly collaborate with mechanical engineers on projects. Before attempting the work at hand, they must listen to and consider the many techniques used by others who are more experienced.
The ability to do math. Calculus, statistics, and other complex math concepts are frequently used by mechanical engineers in their job as they analyze, design, and troubleshoot machines.
Skills in mechanics. The creation of novel devices and systems is made possible by the ability of engineers with mechanical talents to apply fundamental engineering principles and mechanical processes.
Ability to work with issues. To turn scientific ideas and discoveries into marketable products, mechanical engineers must have strong problem-solving abilities.
Registration, Certification, and Licensing
Entry-level mechanical engineering jobs do not need any kind of certification or licensing. Later in one's career, one can earn a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which gives them greater authority and autonomy. Professional engineers refer to engineers who hold a license and are members of the engineering profession (PEs). It is possible for a PE to supervise the work of others, sign off on projects, and give services directly to the general public. The majority of states require these:
- A diploma from an engineering program that has been certified by ABET.
- Securing an engineering fundamental pass rate of at least 70%.
- Relevant job experience normally requires at least four years of experience.
- Professional Engineer (PE) test passing score.
A bachelor's degree is required to take the first FE test. Engineers who pass this test are referred to as "engineers in training" (EITs) or "engineer interns" (EIs). EITs and EIs can take the Principles and Practice of Engineering test after completing the work experience requirements.
Engineers in several states are required to complete continuing education courses every year in order to maintain their licenses. As long as the licensing standards of the other state meet or surpass those of their own, most states will accept a license from another state.
For mechanical engineers, there are several certification programs that can demonstrate proficiency in various areas of the discipline.
Advancement
Some research and development initiatives need a Ph.D. in engineering in order to be eligible for funding. Master's degrees in engineering or business administration can help mechanical engineers master new technologies, expand their knowledge, and improve their ability to handle projects in an efficient manner. After accumulating expertise in the workplace, mechanical engineers can become administrators or supervisors.
Pay
The median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $102,320 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $68,740, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $161,240.
Job Projections
Employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.