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The differences between structural analysis engineers and mechanical engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a structural analysis engineer, becoming a mechanical engineer takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a structural analysis engineer has an average salary of $98,208, which is higher than the $75,352 average annual salary of a mechanical engineer.
The top three skills for a structural analysis engineer include structural analysis, analysis tools and structural integrity. The most important skills for a mechanical engineer are CAD, solidworks, and mechanical systems.
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Mechanical Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $98,208 | $75,352 |
| Hourly rate | $47.22 | $36.23 |
| Growth rate | 6% | 2% |
| Number of jobs | 26,462 | 105,618 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 77% |
| Average age | 44 | 41 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 6 |
A Structural Analysis Engineer is responsible for evaluating the construction processes of establishments and other industrial properties and ensuring adherence to high-quality standards. Structural Analysis Engineers assess the materials and equipment used for the operations to confirm compliance with the budget limitations and timetables. They also check the structures and foundations of the construction and recommend techniques to enhance the element integrity. A Structural Analysis Engineer designs construction plans, conduct cost and statistical analysis, and coordinates with the clients for progress updates and any adjustments.
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.
Structural analysis engineers and mechanical engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Mechanical Engineer | |
| Average salary | $98,208 | $75,352 |
| Salary range | Between $66,000 And $145,000 | Between $58,000 And $97,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Washington |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Transportation | Energy |
There are a few differences between a structural analysis engineer and a mechanical engineer in terms of educational background:
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Mechanical Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 77% |
| Most common major | Mechanical Engineering | Mechanical Engineering |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Michigan Technological University |
Here are the differences between structural analysis engineers' and mechanical engineers' demographics:
| Structural Analysis Engineer | Mechanical Engineer | |
| Average age | 44 | 41 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 83.9% Female, 16.1% | Male, 90.6% Female, 9.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 3.8% Unknown, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 9.0% Asian, 19.4% White, 63.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | 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% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 5% |