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The differences between mechanical engineering interns and research engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 4-6 years to become both a mechanical engineering internship and a research engineer. Additionally, a research engineer has an average salary of $96,945, which is higher than the $42,749 average annual salary of a mechanical engineering internship.
The top three skills for a mechanical engineering internship include solidworks, powerpoint and mechanical design. The most important skills for a research engineer are python, java, and software development.
| Mechanical Engineering Internship | Research Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $42,749 | $96,945 |
| Hourly rate | $20.55 | $46.61 |
| Growth rate | 2% | 2% |
| Number of jobs | 115,512 | 136,763 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 77% | Bachelor's Degree, 65% |
| Average age | 41 | 41 |
| Years of experience | 6 | 6 |
One of the primary responsibilities in a mechanical engineering internship is to follow directives from engineers and managers while gaining practical experience. There are instances when an intern must take part in crafting various materials under the supervision of a more experienced colleague, produce reports and paperwork, operate tools and devices, and provide assistance should anyone need. Furthermore, it is essential to report to managers and supervisors if any issues arise.
Research Engineers are responsible for a wide range of duties, including researching and developing new technologies and prototypes, and finding solutions to improve techniques, procedures, and technologies.
Mechanical engineering interns and research engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Mechanical Engineering Internship | Research Engineer | |
| Average salary | $42,749 | $96,945 |
| Salary range | Between $33,000 And $54,000 | Between $67,000 And $138,000 |
| Highest paying City | Palo Alto, CA | Menlo Park, CA |
| Highest paying state | Illinois | California |
| Best paying company | CDM Smith | The Citadel |
| Best paying industry | Hospitality | Start-up |
There are a few differences between a mechanical engineering internship and a research engineer in terms of educational background:
| Mechanical Engineering Internship | Research Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 77% | Bachelor's Degree, 65% |
| Most common major | Mechanical Engineering | Mechanical Engineering |
| Most common college | Michigan Technological University | Georgia Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between mechanical engineering interns' and research engineers' demographics:
| Mechanical Engineering Internship | Research Engineer | |
| Average age | 41 | 41 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 87.2% Female, 12.8% | Male, 81.7% Female, 18.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 3.1% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 7.8% Asian, 16.7% White, 67.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% | Black or African American, 3.1% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 7.8% Asian, 16.9% White, 67.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 5% |