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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Mechanical Engineers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Mechanical Engineers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 2%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information.
Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, or maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems or processes to meet requirements.
Becoming a mechanical engineer is a process that combines education, practical experience, and often licensure. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you start your career in mechanical engineering:
Before you set out on this career path, it's important to understand what mechanical engineers do. They design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. This can include everything from automobiles and aircraft to robots and power plants.
Mechanical engineers need a blend of hard and soft skills to succeed:
While not required for all jobs, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer can open up more opportunities:
For more information on licensure, visit the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) website.
By following these steps, you can position yourself for a successful career as a mechanical engineer. Always strive to keep learning and growing professionally to remain competitive in this dynamic field.
To pursue a career as a mechanical engineer, you typically need:
Gaining practical experience is crucial for budding mechanical engineers. Here are some ways to do it:
Mechanical engineers need a mix of technical and soft skills:
Mechanical engineers are employed across various industries:
Career advancement for mechanical engineers may include:
Yes, mechanical engineers often work in interdisciplinary fields such as:
The job outlook for mechanical engineers is generally positive, with growth expected to be as fast as the average for all occupations. For up-to-date statistics, refer to government websites like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (opens in a new tab).
While not always mandatory, licensure can:
Continuing education is key for staying current in the field:
Remember, staying informed about industry trends and technological innovations is essential to advance and remain competitive in your mechanical engineering career.