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.