Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Architecture & Construction; Science, Engineering, Technology & Mathematics
Interests: Science; Technology; Mechanics; Design
Earnings (Yearly Average): $95,300
Employment & Outlook: As Fast As Average
OVERVIEW
Sphere of Work
Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines. Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering fields. Mechanical engineers design and oversee the manufacture of many products ranging from medical devices to new batteries. Mechanical engineers design power-producing machines, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines, as well as power-using machines, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Mechanical engineers design other machines inside buildings, such as elevators and escalators. They also design material-handling systems, such as conveyor systems and automated transfer stations. Because of their wide-ranging scope, they are almost certain to incorporate some form of artificial intelligence (AI) in the components and products that they design and build.
Work Environment
Mechanical engineers generally work in offices. They may occasionally visit worksites where a problem or piece of equipment needs their personal attention. In most settings, they work with other engineers, engineering technicians, and other professionals as part of a team.
Mechanical engineers design engines, power plants, among other machines and structures.
CarAI_p0256_0001.jpg
Photo via iStock/gorodenkoff. [Used under license.]
Profile
Working Conditions: Work Indoors
Physical Strength: Light Work
Education Needs: Bachelor’s Degree
Licensure/Certification: Not Required for Entry-level Positions
Opportunities for Experience: Internship; Apprenticeship; Part-time Work
Interest Score: IRC
Occupation Interest
Individuals interested in pursuing a career as a mechanical engineer should be skilled in scientific fields, as well being creative and innovative when it comes to discovering solutions when faced with problems. Mechanical engineers oftentimes spend their time troubleshooting designs they’ve created, so patience is required for times of trial and error.
Duties and Responsibilities
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Analyzing problems to see how mechanical and thermal devices might help solve a particular problem
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Designing or redesigning mechanical and thermal devices or subsystems, using analysis and computer-aided design (CAD) software
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Investigating equipment failures or difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and recommending remedies
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Developing and testing prototypes of devices they design
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Analyzing test results and changing the design or system as needed
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Overseeing the manufacturing process for the device
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities
Mechanical engineers perform diverse tasks, including designing, programming, and project managing, depending on their credentials and the employers who need their services. These engineers apply their ingenuity in such areas as structural analysis, mechanical design, and systems manufacturing for corporations such as Boeing and government agencies such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). High-level systems such as these are increasingly reliant on forms of AI, so mechanical engineers operating in this sphere must be trained in this area and able to incorporate AI and other cutting-edge technology into their projects.
Specific project goals determine how mechanical engineers conduct their daily tasks, whether in office buildings, factories, or other sites. Many devote part of their time to meeting with managers, colleagues, and clients to establish how a project should proceed. Mechanical engineers are often responsible for determining the budgets for specific projects. Sometimes these engineers are tasked with evaluating how their innovations might affect the environment and implementing measures to limit emissions and energy consumption. They consult with colleagues, both mechanical engineers and representatives of other specialties, when necessary. Mechanical engineers may also create computer software to aid them in assessing their manufacturing systems. Many mechanical engineers work to improve the safety and quality standards for new technology set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
Mechanical engineers working for universities are responsible for preparing engineering-specific curricula and guiding students in their course choices and research projects. Engineers who patent devices or processes may spend time seeking investors to fund their research and help them manufacture and sell their products. Some mechanical engineers assist government officials, including members of the U.S. Congress and the White House Office of Science and Technology, by advising leaders regarding mechanical engineering issues that affect federal policies addressing safety, environmental, or economic concerns.
OCCUPATION SPECIALTIES
Auto Research Engineer
Auto research engineers seek to improve the performance of cars. These engineers work to improve traditional features of cars such as suspension, and they also work on aerodynamics and new possible fuels.
Cartoonist
Cartoonists create simplified or exaggerated drawings to visually convey political, advertising, comic, or sports concepts. Some cartoonists work with others who create the idea or story and write captions. Others create plots and write captions themselves. Most cartoonists have humorous, critical, or dramatic talent, in addition to drawing skills.
Heating and Cooling Systems Engineer
Heating and cooling systems engineers work to create and maintain environmental systems wherever temperatures and humidity must be kept within certain limits. They develop such systems for airplanes, trains, cars, schools, and even computer rooms.
Robotic Engineer
Robotic engineers plan, build, and maintain robots. These engineers plan how robots will use sensors for detecting things based on light or smell, and they design how these sensors will fit into the designs of the robots. They may also incorporate advanced features such as AI, depending on the robotic project.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Immediate Physical Environment
Mechanical engineers generally work in offices. They may occasionally visit worksites where a problem or piece of equipment needs their personal attention. In most settings, they work with other engineers, engineering technicians, and other professionals as part of a team.
Human Environment
Mechanical engineers typically interact with fellow coworkers on a daily basis, whether it is working under the supervision of a senior engineer, or being the more experienced engineer overlooking the work of lower-level engineers. Additionally, mechanical engineers frequently work collaboratively in team projects with their colleagues, as well as engineering technicians and other professionals.
Technological Environment
Like other engineers, mechanical engineers use computers extensively. Mechanical engineers are routinely responsible for the integration of sensors, controllers, and machinery. Computer technology helps mechanical engineers create and analyze designs, run simulations and test how a machine is likely to work, interact with connected systems, and generate specifications for parts.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
High School/Secondary
For those in high school interested in becoming a mechanical engineer, enrolling in any available science and mathematics course to sharpen their skills will benefit them. Furthermore, if a school has any technology based or engineering classes, then it’s advised to participate in those as well. Participation in science and engineering based extracurricular clubs will offer additional experience, as well as taking part in any science fair or robotics competition.
Suggested High School Subjects
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Algebra
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Applied Math
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Biology
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Calculus
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Chemistry
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Computer Science
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English
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Environmental Science
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Geometry
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Physics
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Pre-Calculus
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Trigonometry
Related Career Pathways/Majors
Architecture & Construction Career Cluster
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Career Cluster
Transferable Skills and Abilities
Creativity
Listening Skills
Math Skills
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Using the principles of calculus, statistics, and other advanced subjects in math for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work
Mechanical Skills
Problem-solving Skills
Postsecondary
Mechanical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technologies. Mechanical engineering programs usually include courses in mathematics and life and physical sciences, as well as engineering and design. Mechanical engineering technology programs focus less on theory and more on the practical application of engineering principles. They may emphasize internships and co-ops to prepare students for work in industry.
Some colleges and universities offer five-year programs that allow students to obtain both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Some five-year or even six-year cooperative plans combine classroom study with practical work, enabling students to gain valuable experience and earn money to finance part of their education.
Related College Majors
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Aerospace Engineering
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Applied Physics
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Civil Engineering
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Industrial Engineering
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Materials Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Metallurgical Engineering
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Mining & Mineral Engineering
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Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering
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Nuclear Engineering
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Robotics Engineering
Adult Job Seekers
People interested in pursuing a career in mechanical engineering should seek out a university or community college that offers courses or a degree in mechanical engineering; otherwise, it is unlikely to attain an entry-level position as bachelor’s degrees are necessary. Additionally, internships or apprenticeships also help and individual gain experience with the various technologies and work environment of a professional mechanical engineer.
Professional Certification and Licensure
Licensure is not required for entry-level positions as a mechanical engineer. A Professional Engineering (PE) license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in one’s career. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). A PE can oversee the work of other engineers, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public. State licensure varies from state to state so be sure to check the requirements of where one may work or live.
Additional Requirements
Several states require engineers to take continuing education to renew their licenses every year. Most states recognize licensure from other states, as long as the other state’s licensing requirements meet or exceed their own licensing requirements. Several professional organizations offer a variety of certification programs for engineers to demonstrate competency in specific fields of mechanical engineering.
EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT
Median annual earnings of mechanical engineers were $95,300 in 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $60,750, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $136,210.
Generally, the pay of mechanical engineering has many variables that can impact the earnings of an individual. From the location of an employer to the size and type of business, an individual’s education level, skill set, and job responsibilities can often reflect one’s earnings. Most mechanical engineers work full time and some work more than 40 hours a week.
A PhD is essential for engineering faculty positions in higher education, as well as for some research and development (R&D) programs. Mechanical engineers may earn graduate degrees in engineering or business administration to learn new technology, broaden their education, and enhance their project management skills. Mechanical engineers may become administrators or managers after gaining work experience.
EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK
Mechanical engineers held 299,200 jobs in 2020. Employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Mechanical engineers work in many industries and on many types of projects. As a result, employment growth for these workers will vary by industry. As manufacturing processes incorporate more complex automation machinery, mechanical engineers are expected to be needed to help plan for and design this equipment. In automotive manufacturing, these engineers will play a key role in improving the range and performance of hybrid and electric cars. However, employment declines in some industries may temper overall employment growth of mechanical engineers.
MORE INFORMATION
American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
1818 N Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
202.331.3500
www.asee.org
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
180 Technology Parkway, NW
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
404.636.8400
www.ashrae.org
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Two Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016-5990
800.843.2763
CustomerCare@asme.org
www.asme.org
Engineers Without Borders USA
1031 33rd Street, Suite 210
Denver, CO 80205
303.772.2723
info@ewb-usa.org
www.ewb-usa.org
National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
200 Verdae Boulevard
Greenville, SC 29607
800.250.3196
ncees.org
The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
205 Daingerfield Road
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.549.2207
adaa@artdealers.org
www.nsbe.org
The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
1420 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-2794
888.285.6773
www.nspe.org
Society of American Military Engineers (SAME)
1420 King Street, Suite 100
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.549.3800
www.same.org
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
13181 Crossroads Parkway N, Suite 220
City of Industry, CA 91746
323.725.3970
www.shpe.org
Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
130 E. Randolph Street, Suite 4500
Chicago, IL 60601
312.596.5223
hq@swe.org
swe.org
Conversation With... DAVID J. REESE
Practice Leader, Mechanical KCI Technologies, Sparks, MD Mechanical Engineer, 35 years
What was your individual career path in terms of education/training, entry-level job, or other significant opportunity?
I attended a technical high school that had an engineering curriculum that I enjoyed and excelled in, and I was good at math and enjoyed solving problems. Originally, I had intended to be an architect, but by the time I graduated from high school, I decided that engineering was a better fit for me.
In college, I did a work-study co-op program through Virginia Tech, where you get the practical experience of working for a company. I don’t know that I learned a whole lot, technically, in the workplace, but I got a working knowledge of what being a consulting engineer entails. Going to college via that program meant it took five years to earn an undergraduate degree, but I also earned money to pay for school. After graduation, I went to work at the same company; they knew me and I knew them.
I was drawn to mechanical engineering because it was a little more challenging than some of the other disciplines. I took the exam that’s the first step toward sitting for your Professional Engineering Exam and getting licensed when I was a college senior.
Early in my career, I became very good at designing chilled water piping and pumping systems. The industry has become quite dynamic in recent years for requiring sustainability and energy requirements. It’s made us have to work harder and smarter, and it’s definitely an improvement, from a technical standpoint, from what we were doing when I first started out.
I came in to my current employer as a senior mechanical engineer and have since been promoted to lead the mechanical engineering practice. This is the eighth company I’ve worked for during my career, and that’s pretty typical for the industry with the exception of those who may stay in one company for a whole career.
What are the most important skills and/or qualities for someone in your profession?
Number one is good communication. You’re dealing with people all the time.
What do you wish you had known going into this profession?
In school, they don’t really teach you a practical knowledge of building codes. When I started out, every jurisdiction had its own code. They’ve been going toward a standardized code but all jurisdictions are still allowed to have their own requirements on top of standard codes. A better working knowledge of building codes would have been helpful.
Are there many job opportunities in your profession? In what specific areas?
There are many jobs available in the mechanical engineering profession such as consulting, as I’m doing, and also in sales, or even contracting and construction.
How do you see your profession changing in the next five years, what role will technology play in those changes, and what skills will be required?
Energy-efficient systems and their design has been a huge factor recently and it’s going to have a major impact on the industry. I think more than anything, you will see this in the equipment manufacturing realm of this industry because we need to find equipment that’s more efficient, and efficiency is being ramped up. A couple of recent examples include one, known as a variable refrigerant flow system (VRF) that’s big in Asia; these systems are highly efficient. Another that is relatively new to industry is the Energy Wheel, where you pre-treat outdoor air using exhaust air from a building.
What do you enjoy most about your job? What do you enjoy least about your job?
What I most enjoy is the people in the industry. I enjoy working with people and teaching young people what I’ve learned throughout my career. I least enjoy bureaucracy and paperwork.
Can you suggest a valuable “try this” for students considering a career in your profession?
I’m Chairman of the Baltimore chapter of ASHRAE, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (www.ashrae.org), and our chapter has a student challenge every year for local high school students. It’s a teamwork type of exercise where participants actually get to do some design work for an air conditioning system for a commercial application of one sort or another. See if you can find a challenge such as that; participating in it would give you a real good clue if this is for you.
This interview was originally published in 2015.
Conversation With... SARAH MCELRATH
Senior Mechanical Associate Nuclear Power Technologies
What was your career path?
My career path started while I was in college and I interned at a nuclear power plant. After I graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering, I went to work full time at the plant as a thermal performance engineer in the Systems Plant Engineering Group. During this time I attended graduate school parttime and received my master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a focus in thermal sciences. I had been working at the plant about four years when I got a job as a design engineer for an engineering firm. The group I am in specializes in nuclear power and I currently do design changes for two nuclear power plants in New Jersey. My former experience as a thermal performance engineer helps in this role because it gave me a broad view of the overall plant operation while touching on individual plant equipment and performance. An example of this is the feedwater heaters. As a thermal performance engineer I was responsible for monitoring performance, and now as a design engineer I am currently the responsible engineer for a project to replace the feedwater heaters at a plant now. My former experience helps me to have a practical perspective for the job I am trying to do now and gives me insight as to how the end user might want the heater to perform.
What are three pieces of advice you would offer someone interested in your profession?
1. The first piece of advice is to have an open mind. When I was in college I had no idea what career path I would like to take. I met a recruiter for the nuclear plant at a job fair and interviewed for the intern position. I grew up near a nuclear plant and never considered that as a career option. I found out through my internship that the industry was very interesting and I enjoyed the power generation technology and how it offers an opportunity to continue to learn things every day.
2. The second piece of advice is to find something that you enjoy. It is nice to get a paycheck but it means so much more to be contributing to an industry and profession that I care about.
3. The third piece of advice is to have a learning attitude every day. I continue to challenge myself with new projects and try to diversify my experiences. Even though I am done with school I am open to learning and the more diversified experience you have the more opportunities that may open up in the future.
What paths for career advancement are available to you?
In both working at a utility and at an engineering firm there are two main paths available for people with an engineering background: technical and management. You can continue to gain technical experience and advance through this career path. You could become a subject matter expert on a piece of equipment for example or a consultant that may provide advice to power plants trying to solve a difficult issue. The second career path is management. Following this career path puts you in a position of managing groups of people or even advancing to a position like plant manager, responsible for the entire plant. I have been working about six years and people around my age typically decide what track they would like to follow.
This interview was originally published in 2013.