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The differences between mechanical engineers and mechanics 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 mechanic takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a mechanical engineer has an average salary of $75,352, which is higher than the $47,149 average annual salary of a mechanic.
The top three skills for a mechanical engineer include CAD, solidworks and mechanical systems. The most important skills for a mechanic are hand tools, preventive maintenance, and customer service.
| Mechanical Engineer | Mechanic | |
| Yearly salary | $75,352 | $47,149 |
| Hourly rate | $36.23 | $22.67 |
| Growth rate | 2% | 4% |
| Number of jobs | 105,618 | 100,534 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 4.25 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 77% | High School Diploma, 42% |
| 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.
Mechanics are professionals responsible for assembling, maintaining, and repairing vehicles and types of machinery. They are knowledgeable of various tools and equipment, machinery, electrical systems, and other components. They can usually be seen indoors, garages in particular. Due to the advancement of technology, they are also required to be familiar with computer and software programs that can be used in auto shops and vehicles. They always work in safety precautions.
Mechanical engineers and mechanics have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Mechanical Engineer | Mechanic | |
| Average salary | $75,352 | $47,149 |
| Salary range | Between $58,000 And $97,000 | Between $35,000 And $63,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Jose, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | Meta | Anheuser-Busch |
| Best paying industry | Energy | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a mechanical engineer and a mechanic in terms of educational background:
| Mechanical Engineer | Mechanic | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 77% | High School Diploma, 42% |
| Most common major | Mechanical Engineering | Automotive Technology |
| Most common college | Michigan Technological University | - |
Here are the differences between mechanical engineers' and mechanics' demographics:
| Mechanical Engineer | Mechanic | |
| Average age | 41 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 90.6% Female, 9.4% | Male, 95.7% Female, 4.3% |
| 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, 8.5% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 17.1% Asian, 2.4% White, 65.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 2% |