Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers develop, design, build, test, and inspect mechanical devices and systems, such as machines, tools, and engines. Since mechanical engineering is a very broad field, they work in a variety of different industries designing a wide range of products. Most mechanical engineers work in manufacturing, research and development, or at companies that offer engineering services.
Typically, mechanical engineers have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or in a related field such as mechanical engineering technology. They need advanced mathematical skills to perform calculations and they need to be able to think creatively.
Job Overview
Salary
Workplace
How to Start
Job Overview
What does a Mechanical Engineer do?
Mechanical engineers design mechanical and electromechanical products and systems by developing and testing specifications and methods. They evaluates mechanical and electromechanical systems and products by designing and conducting research programs and applying principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, hydraulics, heat transfer, and materials. They confirm system and product capabilities by designing feasibility and testing methods and properties.
Part of their duties they develop mechanical and electromechanical products by studying customer requirements; researching and testing manufacturing and assembly methods and materials; and soliciting observations from operators. It is important to develops manufacturing processes by designing and modifying equipment for fabricating, building, assembling, and installing components.
They assure system and product quality by designing testing methods; testing finished-product and system capabilities; and confirming fabrication, assembly, and installation processes. Preparing product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends to provides engineering information by answering questions and requests.
An important element of their day-to-day responsibilities is to ensure that the product and company reputation are maintained by complying with government regulations, keeping equipment operational by coordinating maintenance and repair services; following manufacturer’s instructions and established procedures; and requesting special services.
Mechanical Design
Mechanical engineers plan, conceptualize, and create mechanical designs for new products. Develop testing processes, and perform testing and validation of new designs
Team Player
Mechanical engineers collaborate with multi-disciplinary engineering teams, and work with vendors and contractors.
Detail Oriented
Mechanical engineers perform detailed documentation to track project development and design process. They also perform engineering calculations to support design work.
Quality Assurance
Mechanical engineers review technical drawings, plans, and specifications using computer software.
Salary
How much does a Mechanical Engineer make?
The average annual pay for a Mechanical Engineer in the United States is $102,878 a year. Salaries can be as high as $166,500 and as low as $45,500, the majority of Mechanical Engineer salaries currently range between $81,500 (25th percentile) to $126,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $140,000 annually across the United States.
These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.
Workplace
What does the workplace for a Mechanical Engineer look like?
The mechanical engineer work conditions should also be a consideration if you’re thinking about pursuing this career. Mechanical engineers spend the majority of their time in an office setting, working at their desks. They use computers to identify solutions to mechanical problems, communicate with other members on their teams and design and test products. Mechanical engineers also work in the field in order to gain additional insight into problems that their employer, or the company they are under contract to help, is trying to solve.
Mechanical engineers often work closely alongside other members of an engineering team, such as engineers and engineering technicians, and the role is highly collaborative. Depending on their level of seniority, they may work closely with senior managers or executives within a company. Most mechanical engineers work full-time hours and many work over 40 hours per week, especially if they are approaching deadlines are need to find rapid solutions to a problem.
How to Start
How to become a Mechanical Engineer?
This role requires a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, with at least two years of experience in a professional engineering role. Applicants must be proficient in engineering design software like AutoCAD, Rhino, and Solidworks. You must also possess analytical, communication, problem-solving, time management, attention to detail, critical thinking, and organization skills. Apart from this, you must be familiar with design and engineering principles. You must also be aware of technological advancements and design trends.
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) offers certifications, as do other organizations, for mechanical engineering programs. Many employers will favor candidates with these accreditations.
