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The differences between mechanical engineers and computer engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 4-6 years to become a mechanical engineer, becoming a computer engineer takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a computer engineer has an average salary of $96,805, which is higher than the $75,352 average annual salary of a mechanical engineer.
The top three skills for a mechanical engineer include CAD, solidworks and mechanical systems. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Mechanical Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $75,352 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $36.23 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | 2% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 105,618 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 77% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 41 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 6 | 2 |
Mechanical Engineers oversee the development of various mechanical devices in different industries. Most of the responsibilities will revolve around crafting, improving, or designing technologies by utilizing extensive expertise in the subject; they identify and detect errors, provide in-depth analysis, and resolve issues. They are often in designated offices, but they can also work on-site and travel if necessary. Furthermore, Mechanical Engineers usually function in a group or team setting, often supervised by personnel in higher positions.
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
Mechanical engineers and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Mechanical Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $75,352 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $58,000 And $97,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Meta | Waymo |
| Best paying industry | Energy | Finance |
There are a few differences between a mechanical engineer and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Mechanical Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 77% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Mechanical Engineering | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | Michigan Technological University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between mechanical engineers' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Mechanical Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 41 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 90.6% Female, 9.4% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 3.1% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 7.8% Asian, 16.6% White, 68.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 11% |