what is a mechanical engineer?
As a mechanical engineer, you are tasked with designing, building and testing mechanical devices. You construct and modify a variety of machines and systems. You also install and maintain motors, equipment and industrial systems based on their desired uses. As a mechanical engineer, you develop specifications for designing and creating tools and systems. That means you assess a project's requirements and plan and develop mechanical designs for the new products. You also ascertain the performance of mechanical components by creating testing processes and conducting tests.
Mechanical engineers work in various industries. They use their knowledge of engineering concepts to develop machines used in the healthcare, power, transport and manufacturing sectors. Some also work in research facilities to develop and test advanced technologies like nanotechnology and biotechnology. The roles of mechanical engineers vary as different industries apply unique engineering concepts to create products and mechanical components. Since mechanical engineering is needed in all sectors, you can secure a job in your desired industry.
A mechanical engineer requires technical knowledge and problem-solving skills to modify existing machine designs. You should also demonstrate the scientific and numerical ability to solve complex mechanical issues.
Would working as a mechanical engineer suit your interest in working with machines? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a mechanical engineer role.
mechanical engineer jobsaverage salary of a mechanical engineer
According to National Careers, the average compensation package for mechanical engineers ranges from £20,000 to £52,000 annually. The starting salaries for mechanical engineers usually range from £20,000 to £28,000 per year for recent graduates and entry-level workers joining the field. The compensation package increases with experience; you can earn £25,000 to £35,000 annually with three to five years of experience. In mid-level positions like lead or principal mechanical engineer roles, you earn around £35,000 to £50,000 yearly. Senior-level positions attract a compensation package of £45,000 to 60,000 per year.
what factors affect the salary of a mechanical engineer?
Due to the diversity of mechanical engineering roles, the compensation package varies depending on your industry; the complexity of the tasks and specialised skills required in each sector are the main influences. For instance, a mechanical engineer working in robotics earns more than automobile mechanical engineers. The types of machines you manufacture also influence your salary. If you work in the pharmaceutical industry manufacturing medical devices, you are likely to earn more than someone working in the food industry.
Your location may also dictate your earnings since it determines demand. If you work in large cities and industrialised areas, the demand for mechanical engineers is higher, which increases your salary prospects.
types of mechanical engineers
Some of the mechanical engineering fields and specialisation options include:
- manufacturing engineering: as a mechanical engineer, you play a vital role in manufacturing industries as you design the machines and technology used to create various products. Some mechanical engineers design equipment and machines for food production or medical devices for diagnosis and medicine production. You also design specifications for manufacturing automobiles and household appliances like air conditioning systems.
- process engineering: as a mechanical engineer, you assess mechanical processes and develop modifications to improve efficiency and safety. You investigate the functions of machines and develop modifications to improve the systems. After testing, you install the systems to improve industrial processes.
- robotics engineering: as a mechanical engineer, you can specialise in building and maintaining robots. Your job is to develop the robot designs based on their functions and technology. You determine their performance, such as how the robots react to stimuli. You also create modifications and perform regular maintenance on the robots.
- automotive engineering: as a mechanical engineer working in the automotive industry, you play a role in designing and manufacturing vehicles. You also participate in auto research to develop modifications that improve the performance of vehicles. For instance, you develop alternatives for powering and fuelling mechanisms.
working as a mechanical engineer
Working as a mechanical engineer involves creating solutions for everyday problems in various industries. If the role sounds intriguing, check out the specific tasks, work environments and job outlook in the profession.
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duties and responsibilities
The specific tasks of mechanical engineers vary depending on the industry. However, some typical duties include:
- analysing problems: your work aims to solve a problem or respond to industrial requirements. For instance, if an industrial process consumes a lot of energy, you find a mechanical solution for optimising the production process. You can create a new mechanical device or modify the existing equipment.
- producing mechanical designs and drawings: you design mechanical components and equipment by creating the blueprints and designs for the machines. Since all mechanical parts require technical drawings, you use a computer-aided design (CAD) system to make the drawings.
- developing prototypes: you create prototypes from the design drawings and blueprints developed to solve a mechanical problem. You test the design and validate product hypotheses from the prototype. If the design prototype solves the issues, the product moves to the production phase, or you adjust the features to suit the desired functions.
- supervising manufacturing: when a product prototype passes the testing phase, it goes to full production. As a mechanical engineer, you supervise its production to ensure successful outcomes. You double-check that the machine contains all the features and performs optimally.
- creating technical documentation: every machine or equipment comes with technical information on its components and uses. The documentation also highlights how the equipment meets industry standards and complies with the regulations. As a mechanical engineer, you create the technical documentation for every product you design.
- budgeting and pricing products: before starting a mechanical engineering project, you discuss the cost implications with the relevant parties. After production, you assist the company in pricing the equipment based on cost implications like features, time and expenses.
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work environment
Mechanical engineers work in diverse environments based on their projects or industries. Some mechanical engineers work in the manufacturing, pharmaceutical and transport industries. As a mechanical engineer, your work is office-based during the design phase. You complete the technical drawings and create prototypes in office environments. You also make regular visits to factories, plants and workshops. Factory production areas can be noisy, especially in automobile industries. Sometimes, you visit factories to repair or maintain the equipment, which requires you to wear protective gear. The role involves travelling, especially if the office is not close to the factory production areas. You can also work from home during the design stage.
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who are your colleagues?
As a mechanical engineer, your colleagues may include electrical engineers, industrial designers and industrial electricians. You also work with factory managers and cost planners, as well as other specialists that could include project engineers, project managers and maintenance engineers.
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work schedule
The typical work hours of mechanical engineers are 36 to 40 hours a week in full-time positions. That means you work regular office hours with occasional evening and weekend overtime. During the design stage, you may work overtime to complete the prototypes on time. Part-time roles usually involve working a few hours daily. Mechanical engineers can also work on short-term contracts or on a consultation basis via an agency. Freelance work and self-employment options are available for mechanical engineers with a good track record and extensive experience.
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job outlook
As a mechanical engineer, you start your career in a junior role and gain experience to become a lead mechanical engineer or another senior-level position. For instance, if you are interested in management, you can become a project manager or production manager. Some mechanical engineers specialise in specific industries to become robotics or mechatronics process engineers. Others work in aerospace, defence or automotive engineering roles. When you gain expertise, you can become a consultant.
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advantages of finding a mechanical engineer job through randstad
Finding your mechanical engineer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a mechanical engineer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
Some of the routes for becoming a mechanical engineer include:
- university course: to become a mechanical engineer, pursue a degree or higher national diploma in electromechanical or mechanical engineering. The courses equip you with the engineering techniques and knowledge necessary for the role. During your training, ensure you gain experience through summer vacation schemes, work placement and internships.
- college: courses like a Level 4 or 5 higher national diploma in mechanical engineering also prepare you for the role. The courses require relevant experience or previous training in a relevant subject.
- apprenticeship: if you don't meet the entry requirements for college courses, start with an apprenticeship programme that requires 4 or 5 GCSEs. Some of the higher degree apprenticeships available for mechanical engineers include manufacturing engineer degree apprenticeships and electromechanical higher apprenticeships.
skills and competencies
Some of the transferrable skills that a mechanical engineer requires include:
- problem-solving skills: as a mechanical engineer, you should be good at analysing and solving real-world problems. Problem-solving skills help you develop solutions and product modifications.
- creativity: as a mechanical engineer, your creative powers enable you to invent and design products and solutions for different industrial processes. Artfully-designed mechanical components usually rely on your creativity.
- maths skills: becoming a mechanical engineer requires a strong aptitude for mathematics and numerical skills. Maths skills are useful for analysing data and applying mathematical concepts to design.
FAQs
FAQs about working as a mechanical engineer
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what does a mechanical engineer do daily?
As a mechanical engineer, you analyse mechanical devices, troubleshoot problems and design modifications for existing machines. You also develop and test the prototypes used to manufacture mechanical components. Want to learn more about working as a mechanical engineer? Then check out this article.
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is mechanical engineering a good career?
Working as a mechanical engineer is an exciting career with promising job prospects. The role can lead to careers in aerospace, manufacturing and robotics. Want to learn more about working as a mechanical engineer? Then check out this article.
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what skills do mechanical engineers need?
As a mechanical engineer, you require strong numerical skills and an aptitude for technical knowledge. You also rely on creativity to develop unique solutions to mechanical problems. Want to learn more about working as a mechanical engineer? Then check out this article.
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do mechanical engineers travel a lot?
Your mechanical engineer role involves extensive travel from the office to production facilities. You may also travel abroad for consultations and conferences. Want to learn more about working as a mechanical engineer? Then check out this article.
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how do I apply for a mechanical engineer vacancy?
Applying for a mechanical engineer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our mechanical engineer job offers. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!
