Mechanical Engineer Job Description Sample

Mechanical engineers are employed in a variety of technical fields. They often apply their skills in the design, development and manufacturing of moving mechanical parts for a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, construction and manufacturing. These parts eventually find their way into various constructions and equipment used in our everyday life. Mechanical engineers also contribute with revolutionary inventions that change the world and pave way for the future.

What are the primary responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineer?

• Studying the requirements of a project
• Assessing the performance of machines and mechanical components
• Liaising with customers and project managers regarding the budget and specifications
• Ensuring safety and reliability of equipment through timely maintenance
• Carrying out analysis and designs with the use of computer-aided design software
• Communicating with suppliers regarding inventory
• Performing the relevant research required for a project
• Implementing and monitoring applicable test procedures
• Performing presentations of the designs when required
• Testing and modifying products as required
• Preparing reports and documentation to keep track of the progress

What are the education and entry requirements for Mechanical engineers?

To enter this profession, a graduate degree is required in a relevant subject like mechanical, automotive, manufacturing or aeronautical engineering. Those who have just left school can enter this field by completing a Higher National Diploma in a relevant field like mechanical engineering. Those looking to become a technician can go for an advanced apprenticeship in manufacturing or mechanical engineering. Work experience plays a huge role when it comes to landing an entry-level Mechanical engineering job. Relevant work experience can be gathered by working with employers on your final-year project work, pursuing industrial placements and summer internships.

What are the qualities required to become a successful Mechanical engineer?

• Ability to work under pressure
• Exceptional problem-solving skills
• Creativity
• A technical bent of mind
• Excellent scientific ability
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team

What are the pros and cons of being a Mechanical engineer?

Pros:

• Job flexibility (Mechanical engineers are required in a wide variety of industries)
• You get to earn higher than average salaries
• Excellent earning potential
• Plenty of job opportunities
• Strong demand in the market
• High job satisfaction
• Well respected profession

Cons:

• Slower than average job growth (5% from 2012 to 2022, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics)
• Erratic workload
• Continuing education is required to maintain licensing requirements
• Long work hours
• Travel may be required to carry out onsite inspections
• High education time (you need at least a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering to become eligible)
• Heavy competition for jobs and promotions
• Complex and detail-oriented nature of work

How much can a Mechanical engineer earn?

According to payscale.com, the average annual salary for these professionals is $68,268 per year.

Work environment and career outlook

Mechanical engineers usually work in regular office environments and may be expected, at times, to visit work sites to check faulty equipment that needs special attention. These professionals are employed mostly in engineering services, R&D, civil service, armed forces, government agencies, transport, construction and manufacturing fields.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of mechanical engineers is set to climb by 5 percent from 2014 to 2024. After gaining adequate experience as a Mechanical engineer, one can move on to senior roles like a Senior Mechanical engineer and Project Manager.