What is the career path for a mechanical engineer?

The career path for a mechanical engineer involves jobs as a mechanical drafter, a maintenance machinist, and a mechanical engineer. Mechanical engineers have many different career paths to choose from in many different industries.

Most mechanical engineers have at least a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related engineering discipline. Many also have advanced degrees in mechanical engineering. Obtaining an advanced degree can lead to more job opportunities in this field, some of which have high-paying salaries.

The majority of companies seek candidates that are graduates of mechanical engineering programs that the Accreditation Board accredits for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

In addition to education, many mechanical engineers also get certified in their field. There are many different certifications for a mechanical engineer, some relate to general mechanical engineering experience and abilities, while others relate to specific industries and different kinds of software.

Here are some certifications that help to advance a mechanical engineer along different career paths:

• CAD and Digital Manufacturing

• Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

• Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

• Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

• Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)

• Digital Manufacturing and Design Technology Certification

• EPA Operators Safety Certification (EPA)

• Master Certified Electronics Technician (CET)

Mechanical engineering is a broad discipline. Professionals in the field have tasks involving product and project development, research, and design, and manufacturing and testing.

The variety of mechanical engineering roles sees these professionals working in a wide array of industries, including:

• Energy and power

• Construction

• Manufacturing

• Medical equipment

• Technology

• Defense contracting

Mechanical engineers don't have problems finding employment in many industries across the globe because almost every sector relies on mechanical systems and devices in some way.

The industries that have the most mechanical engineers are:

• Automotive

• General-purpose manufacturing

• Technology

Mechanical engineers can have careers that are general in terms of mechanical engineering, or they might specialize in:

• Research

• Design

• Development

• Testing

• Manufacturing

The industries that have the most mechanical engineers are: