Mechanical Engineer Career Path
Education
Mechanical engineers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or doctorate, especially for more advanced positions. Mechanical engineering programs typically include coursework in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science. Students also take courses in mechanical engineering topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, and machine design.
Licensing
In most states, mechanical engineers must be licensed to practice. To obtain a license, engineers must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineer (PE) exam. The FE exam is typically taken after completing a bachelor’s degree, while the PE exam is typically taken after gaining several years of experience.
Career Path
Mechanical engineers can work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. They can also work in government agencies or in research and development. Common job titles for mechanical engineers include:
- Design Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Research and Development Engineer
Mechanical engineers can advance their careers by gaining experience, earning additional certifications, and pursuing further education. With experience, mechanical engineers can move into management or leadership positions. They can also specialize in a particular area of mechanical engineering, such as robotics or energy efficiency.
Skills and Qualifications
Mechanical engineers need a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. They also need to be able to think critically and solve problems. Other skills and qualifications that are important for mechanical engineers include:
- Computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Project management
- Communication skills
- Teamwork skills
Career Outlook
The job outlook for mechanical engineers is expected to be good over the next few years. The growth in manufacturing and other industries is expected to create new jobs for mechanical engineers. Additionally, the need for engineers to design and develop new technologies is expected to drive job growth in this field.
Salary
The median annual salary for mechanical engineers was $92,790 in May 2022. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $56,330, and the highest 10% of earners made more than $158,940.
Future of Mechanical Engineering
The future of mechanical engineering is bright. The need for engineers to design and develop new technologies is expected to drive job growth in this field. Additionally, the growing focus on sustainability is expected to create new opportunities for mechanical engineers to design and develop energy-efficient and environmentally friendly products and processes.
