How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
What is a Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers are those who can work on designing and planning engines and other equipment for the company. You will be in charge of maintenance, installation, operation, and repair of equipment. You will get the customer design proposals and will investigate failures and diagnose faulty equipment and report to the maintenance team. You will also handle discussions and solve problems together with manufacturing departments, suppliers, and customers. This means you will work with personnel within and outside the engineering team. Similarly, you will make sure the products are more reliable and perform well in the specific operating environments.
There is a list of accredited engineering courses you must have taken for you to be eligible for the post. A Master's or doctorate degree will be a plus. You must be creative, have a great team spirit and be able to work under pressure. In addition, you need to have good interpersonal skills and verbal and written communication skills. You will earn an average of $72,056 a year.
What Does a Mechanical Engineer Do
Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines.
How To Become a Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. Mechanical engineers who sell services publicly must be licensed in all states and the District of Columbia.
EducationMechanical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. Mechanical engineering programs usually include courses in mathematics and life and physical sciences, as well as engineering and design courses. 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 5-year programs that allow students to obtain both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Some 5-year or even 6-year cooperative plans combine classroom study with practical work, enabling students to gain valuable experience and earn money to finance part of their education.
ABET accredits programs in engineering and engineering technology. Most employers prefer to hire students from an accredited program. A degree from an ABET-accredited program is usually necessary to become a licensed professional engineer.
Important QualitiesCreativity. Mechanical engineers design and build complex pieces of equipment and machinery. A creative mind is essential for this kind of work.
Listening skills. Mechanical engineers often work on projects with others, such as architects and computer scientists. They must listen to and analyze different approaches made by other experts to complete the task at hand.
Math skills. Mechanical engineers use the principles of calculus, statistics, and other advanced subjects in math for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.
Mechanical skills. Mechanical skills allow engineers to apply basic engineering concepts and mechanical processes to the design of new devices and systems.
Problem-solving skills. Mechanical engineers need good problem-solving skills to take scientific discoveries and use them to design and build useful products.
Licenses, Certifications, and RegistrationsLicensure 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 generally requires
- A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
- A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
- Relevant work experience, typically at least 4 years
- A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
The initial FE exam can be taken after one earns a bachelor’s degree. Engineers who pass this exam are commonly called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After meeting work experience requirements, EITs and EIs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering.
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.
AdvancementA Ph.D. is essential for engineering faculty positions in higher education, as well as for some research and development 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 obtaining the requisite experience.
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Mechanical Engineer Career Paths
As you move along in your career, you may start taking on more responsibilities or notice that you've taken on a leadership role. Using our career map, a mechanical engineer can determine their career goals through the career progression. For example, they could start out with a role such as manufacturing engineer, progress to a title such as senior manufacturing engineer and then eventually end up with the title manufacturing engineering manager.
Mechanical Engineer Jobs You Might Like
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Average Salary for a Mechanical Engineer
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Mechanical Engineer Resumes
Designing and figuring out what to include on your resume can be tough, not to mention time-consuming. That's why we put together a guide that is designed to help you craft the perfect resume for becoming a Mechanical Engineer. If you're needing extra inspiration, take a look through our selection of templates that are specific to your job.
Joshua Turner |
Sara Taylor  Frederick, MD  (620) 555-1531  staylor@example.com Experience Mechanical Engineer2014 - Present Bechtel•Frederick, MD
Laboratory Assistant2011 - 2014 Pfizer•Newark, NJ
Manufacturing Engineering Internship2010 - 2011 Pfizer•Newark, NJ
Skills ERPCreoProceduresEngineering DesignSalmonellaElisaCapital EquipmentFailure AnalysisBOMShop Floor Education Bachelor's Degree Mechanical Engineering2007 - 2010 New Jersey Institute of Technology•Newark, NJ |
Denise Brown  Mechanical Engineer2018 - Present Lockheed MartinFort Worth, TX
Systems Engineer2015 - 2018 Lockheed MartinFort Worth, TX
Electrical Engineer Internship2014 - 2015 Texas InstrumentsDallas, TX
 Bachelor's Degree Mechanical Engineering2011 - 2014 Ohio State UniversityColumbus, OH |
Contact Information  Fort Worth, TX (290) 555-6560 dbrown@example.comSkills Electrical Design Circuit Design Electrical Engineering Linux Network Security Troubleshoot CAD Electrical Systems I2C Product Development |
William Perkins  Bentonville, AR  (310) 555-2724  wperkins@example.com Skills Data AnalysisVPNTechnical StaffULEngineering ManagementFacilityBiomedicalInfrastructureItilAPI |
Employment History Mechanical Engineer2020 - Present Walmart•Bentonville, AR
Field Service Technician2017 - 2020 Walmart•Bentonville, AR
Biomedical Engineer2015 - 2017 HP•Houston, TX
Education Bachelor's Degree Mechanical Engineering2012 - 2015 Texas A&M University•College Station, TX |
- Initiated and became SME of the CAD Code 2 release process for P-8A T&E.
- Help design hardware, software and interface specifications for the 1553 Interface and Discrete Output.
- Justified and purchased capital equipment and developed new processes and brought new products into production.
- Operate Wireline units on oil and gas wells.
- Operated and maintained three different Measurement While Drilling computer systems.
- Trained project apprentice and reduced project budget by 20%.
- Implemented testing methodologies defined as per CMMI and SIX SIGMA standards.
- Perform various changes involving Deployments, Database and application upgrades in the Unix and Windows servers.
- Project Management: split tasks that had to be completed and make sure that each task done correctly.
- Debugged and isolated hardware issued through the measurement phase and provided communication and training on new methods of memory testing.
- Cell Site Equipment
- Project Management
- Wi-Fi
- Videoconferencing
- Routers
- Electrical Systems
- Cost Estimates
- CAD
- Project Site
- Government Accounts
- Major: Mechanical Engineering
- contracted) Performed mechanical design, development, and testing of rotating machinery and components with emphasis of project management.
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, responsible for the assembly of torque converters, and transmissions.
- Build CAE models from CAD designs and Perform Optimization using CAE tools.
- Led cross-functional meetings (with other powertrain attributes), sourced suppliers, created cost model, and completed DFMEA/PFMEA.
- Participate in the design of the next generation of embedded modems from hardware, software, and backend implementation.
- Assign orders for specimen collection into laboratory database.
- Used PCR to amplify DNA samples Analyzed PCR samples to characterize microsattellites in Texas Horned Lizards.
- Enter data such as released test results, patient demographics, physician's name and test requested.
- Monitored chemistry students ensuring appropriate safety measures were maintained throughout the laboratory.
- Prepared lab equipment and objectives for each weekly lab.
- Created a perl script to generate large excel sheets for performing analysis on simulation data and compare timing.
- Prepared appropriate requests for new equipment.
- Worked with Amazon Elastic Mapreduce and HIVE to transform/transfer a very large dataset from Amazon RDS.
- Completed Toll Gate (project management system) training.
- Develop project status matrix for weekly evaluation and impact of the change requests.
- Drafted performance requirements for product development to keep the resultant stress and resonantfrequencies of the products in the right range.
- Design and complete assembly and product drawings for manufacturing.
- Performed failure analysis and implemented correction actions for internal and customer quality issues.
- Developed an image file server to transfer digital images across the Internet.
- Designed building automation control systems from plans and specifications for projects secured by the sales department.
- Used SCSS to generate uniform CSS file which uses a consistent color theme.
- Manufactured and purchased 3D model part requirements using CADKEY and Pro E CAD programs.
- Drive failure analysis work for root cause and data is fed back to either design or wafer fab for fixing.
- Managed new product development and quality control assurance.
- Performed design reviews for Federal Facility Agreement (FFA) Upgrades.
- Resolved and tracked issues related to OSS, Intelligent Networks, Unix Scripts etc.
- Project Management
- UL
- Catia
- Fpga
- CAD
- GD
- Process Control
- ASE
- Electrical Systems
- IPT
- Create customer assembly drawings, release and issue 3D CAD models with drawings through Team Center 2007.
- Managed the product development global footprint for multiple manufacturing facilities and products.
- Observed field tests and offered advice to product development and test engineers to minimize invalid test data.
- Designed the process for hazardous materials storage at the new facility
- Determined facility requirements, and designed production areas within facility to support new production capacity.
- Prepared the layout of the site and ensured that the rig-up process was performed in accordance with the engineering standards.
- Achieved 90% participation in safety meetings and actions, regularly meeting strict safety and environmental regulations.
- Work with Sumologic and Splunkstorm, search monitoring software, for the Cloud system.
- Used project management software to create and maintain schedules, reports, and tracking spreadsheets to track and record projects performance.
- Experience: Engineering project management introduction.
- Lead, Planned, configured and setup SANCopy Migrations.
- Product Specifications
- Project Management
- Nuclear Power
- Infrastructure
- CNC
- CAD
- Hardware
- Javascript
- Network Security
- Photoshop
- Generated engineering drawings from 3D Cad models.
- Design & Develop Fixtures and Assembly Tools using CREO 3D CAD & Solid Works.
- Updated tractor system models to include latest design changes and better weld detail.
- Apply GD & T, tolerance and part fit stack-up analysis.
- Work with electronic test equipment such as digital multi-meter, logic analyzer, etc.
- Implement Engineering Change Orders of engineering drawings.
- Completed Project Management training, and have led and assisted on multiple projects.
- Created a script in Unix to reduce the manual work
- Developed various generic JavaScript functions used for validations.
- Modify process documents to reflect the change in procedures.
- Identified server monitoring issue for GXS clients and provided both software and hardware solutions.
- Designed various fuel system components for the Hybrid Ford Escape/Ford Escape to meet Global Product Development System milestone deliverables.
- Ford College Graduate working in Product Development - Body Interior.
- Worked with CAD team, CAE engineers, and other various commodities to develop optimal cross-functional designs.
- Coordinated prototype testing in support of design proposals.
- Managed $ multi-million budget for annual operation, facility improvement and capital refurbishment projects.
- Implemented FTPM, work procedures and measurable report-out.
- Prepared PE drawings and layouts for assembly line and installation.
- Implemented preventive maintenance procedures to insure equipment availability required to meet production demands.
- Implemented one Six Sigma project per year focused on cost savings that directly affect the bottom line profit of the division.
- Develop civil and mechanical engineering drawings.
- Helped implement statistical process control charts to better identify manufacturing inefficiencies.
- ERP
- Vhdl
- Data Analysis
- Business Units
- ROI
- Shop Floor
- TPM
- Production Floor
- Emergency
- Verilog
- Work with planning and design teams to drive product development and review tooling specifications.
- Design control systems for mechanical R&D for production & on road vehicle emissions analysis.
- Created engineering drawings of mechanical components for CAM suppliers.
- Championed an emerging Six Sigma methodology and trained jr engineers in SPC.
- Assisted a professor with laboratory experiments; tasks included detailed lab equipment preparation through proper lab documentation.
- Acquired and updated knowledge pertinent to policies, specimen collection, procedures and result reporting.
- Utilized Six Sigma and LEAN manufacturing to make process improvements.
- Led job observations on 787 Assembly Line to determine flow reduction opportunities.
Learn How To Write a Mechanical Engineer Resume
At Zippia, we went through countless Mechanical Engineer resumes and compiled some information about how to optimize them. Here are some suggestions based on what we found, divided by the individual sections of the resume itself.
View Mechanical Engineer Resume Examples And Templates
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Create The Perfect Resume
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Top Colleges for Mechanical Engineers
1. Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI • Private
2. Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA • Private
3. Cornell University
Ithaca, NY • Private
4. Northwestern University
Evanston, IL • Private
5. Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY • Private
6. Iowa State University of Science and Technology
Ames, IA • Private
7. Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD • Private
8. Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA • Private
9. University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX • Private
10. University of Wisconsin - Madison
Madison, WI • Private
Find the best Mechanical Engineer job for you
Online Courses For Mechanical Engineer That You May Like
Learn the basic ideas and concepts behind developing mechanical products related to mechanical engineering...
Master the fundamentals of mechanics, statics and applied physics and then solve real-world mechanics problems...
This course applies principles learned in my course "Introduction to Engineering Mechanics" to analyze real world engineering structures. You will need to have mastered the engineering fundamentals from that class in order to be successful in this course offering. This course addresses the modeling and analysis of static equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering systems and problem solving. - Recommended Background: You will need to have successfully completed my earlier co...
Top Skills For a Mechanical Engineer
The skills section on your resume can be almost as important as the experience section, so you want it to be an accurate portrayal of what you can do. Luckily, we've found all of the skills you'll need so even if you don't have these skills yet, you know what you need to work on. Out of all the resumes we looked through, 10.9% of mechanical engineers listed engineering design on their resume, but soft skills such as creativity and listening skills are important as well.
- Engineering Design, 10.9%
- CAD, 9.1%
- Solidworks, 8.6%
- Electrical Systems, 5.9%
- Facility, 5.6%
- Other Skills, 59.9% See All Mechanical Engineer Skills
12 Mechanical Engineer RESUME EXAMPLES
Build a professional mechanical engineer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 12+ resume templates to create your mechanical engineer resume.
Best States For a Mechanical Engineer
Some places are better than others when it comes to starting a career as a mechanical engineer. The best states for people in this position are California, Delaware, New Mexico, and Nevada. Mechanical engineers make the most in California with an average salary of $85,029. Whereas in Delaware and New Mexico, they would average $81,832 and $80,140, respectively. While mechanical engineers would only make an average of $79,280 in Nevada, you would still make more there than in the rest of the country. We determined these as the best states based on job availability and pay. By finding the median salary, cost of living, and using the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Location Quotient, we narrowed down our list of states to these four.
1. California
$85,029
Avg. Salary
2. Delaware
$81,832
Avg. Salary
3. New Hampshire
$77,414
Avg. Salary
How Do Mechanical Engineer Rate Their Jobs?
Top Mechanical Engineer Employers
We've made finding a great employer to work for easy by doing the hard work for you. We looked into employers that employ mechanical engineers and discovered their number of mechanical engineer opportunities and average salary. Through our research, we concluded that HCL America was the best, especially with an average salary of $71,839. Engineering Associates follows up with an average salary of $80,906, and then comes Schlumberger with an average of $89,863. In addition, we know most people would rather work from home. So instead of having to change careers, we identified the best employers for remote work as a mechanical engineer. The employers include Motorola Solutions, System One, and Everi Holdings
Mechanical Engineer FAQs
Do mechanical engineers make a lot of money?
Yes, mechanical engineers make a lot of money. The national average for an engineer is around $85,000 which is 40% above the national average for salary. Entry-level jobs typically start between $65,000-$70,000. Top earners can make $110,000 as mechanical engineers.
Income potential is related to the field a mechanical engineer is working in, in addition to location and work experience. New York and Delaware show the highest paid engineering jobs.
The starting salary in mechanical engineering may be lower than a software engineer, for example, because mechanical engineers gain experience through practical knowledge gained in the workplace.
Is it hard to become a mechanical engineer?
Yes, it is hard to become a mechanical engineer. This is because of the focus, time, and dedication required to earn the proper certifications.
While you are earning a degree in a university program that's accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), you will have to take courses in advanced mathematics, physical sciences, and engineering.
You can also expect to work long hours in the computer lab with advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software. Competitive internships are often expected or built into the curriculum.
In order to offer your services to the public, you will have to first pass extensive tests to become a certified professional engineer. Licensure is not mandatory for entry-level positions, but is recommended for higher-level leadership and independence.
Beyond a general certificate, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers allows individuals to show competency in specific fields of mechanical engineering.
Is mechanical engineer a good career?
Yes, mechanical engineer is a good career. If you are curious, innovative, and enjoy learning about how things work then becoming a mechanical engineer will be a good fit for you.
Mechanical engineers rely on good math and science skills. As an engineer, you create and improve mechanical systems and apply practical solutions to complex problems. The projected job growth for mechanical engineers is 4% between 2018-2028.
Mechanical engineers can move into specialty fields such as Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Design, or Transportation systems including aerospace. Wherever you are, mechanical engineers have designed the products and systems we use in everyday life, from our cars to the climate control in our homes.
Mechanical engineers design tools, engines, machines, and other equipment. From microscopic equipment used to support the function of the human body, to rockets that transport space tourism.
They are also involved in testing, monitoring, overseeing the installation of projects and designs. It is practical and rewarding work that allows you to visibly see and interact with your achievements.
Is mechanical engineering a stressful job?
Yes, mechanical engineering is a stressful job. This is because mechanical engineers are always busy designing, developing, and testing mechanical and thermal devices. According to the Bureau of Labor Studies, more than one-third of mechanical engineers work over 40 hours a week.
Mechanical engineers play a critical part to increase workflow. The larger the projects, the team, or the company, the more responsibilities and oversight an engineer may have.
Design work may relate to customer demands or releasing a product in a timely manner and therefore, deadlines can add up. Troubleshooting and offering assistance to the team means having both problem-solving skills and good communication.
The job also requires keeping up to date on the latest technology and software and also understanding older systems still in place.
You may also deal with stress in regards to your position being automated or replaced by A.I. depending on what sector you are working in. Another stress factor may relate to the lack of diversity in the field of engineering.
What qualifications do you need to become a mechanical engineer?
To qualify as a mechanical engineer you need a Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an accredited university as well as being able to pass a state licensing exam.
Other qualifications needed to become a mechanical engineer are having the appropriate skills.
Required Mechanical Engineering Skills:
Critical thinking
Problem-solving
Strong math background
Observation
Communication
Technical analysis
Good judgment