Are you curious about a career as a Mechanical Engineer in the United States of America? Now you can learn what Mechanical Engineers do, the work environment, how to become one, salary, and job outlook.
What Are Mechanical Engineers?
Mechanical Engineers design and build machines. They apply their engineering skills to many different kinds of products, including automobiles, heavy equipment, airplanes, satellites, and medical devices. In addition to designing machines, they design tools for engineers, help develop standards and specifications, and develop testing procedures. They may also specialize in a particular type of technology, such as aeronautics or robotics. The work is challenging and interesting, but the hours are long.
Who Are Mechanical Engineers?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines a mechanical engineer as someone who works with tools, materials, machines, or processes to design, construct, test, or maintain them. That’s a pretty broad definition. In fact, mechanical engineers include people who use science and math to design equipment for every industry, including construction, electronics, mining, medicine, and manufacturing.
What Is a Typical Day Like for a Mechanical Engineer? Mechanical engineers spend most of their time at work on machines, tools, materials, or processes.
The Job Market
Most Mechanical Engineers work for companies that make machinery, tools, materials, or other products. They work in factories, offices, or labs. In some cases, they work for government agencies, schools, or hospitals. Many Mechanical Engineers work in engineering consulting firms that offer advice on engineering projects. They work for firms that test machines or equipment to make sure it works the way it’s supposed to. Some Mechanical Engineers find work as independent consultants. Others work for trade associations and unions.
The Work Environment
The Mechanical Engineering profession is divided into two main groups: those who specialize in design and those who specialize in production. Designers work on the design of a machine. Engineers who work in this field do a lot of thinking and drawing. They must be very creative. They often start their work by developing models and sketches. Production engineers design a product, make sure that it will work properly, and make sure that the factory where it is being built is safe and secure. Engineers at this job spend a lot of time supervising and helping the people who work on the floor of the factory.
Advancement Opportunities
Mechanical Engineers can advance through a number of different paths, including working for a company, consulting, or teaching. The salary and work environment will depend on the person’s experience and training. Many Mechanical Engineers specialize in certain areas of technology, such as aeronautics, or robotics. Mechanical Engineers who have advanced in their careers may find it easy to find new jobs, but they might have trouble finding a job with good pay and good benefits.
What Is the Average Annual Salary for a Mechanical Engineer?
Mechanical Engineers earn a median annual salary of $85,200. This is a little higher than the national average for all other occupations.
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers can get into this field by earning an engineering degree. To be admitted into a program, applicants must pass a rigorous series of tests that cover math, science, and English. They also need to have a bachelor’s degree in a related subject. If they want to work in a factory, they will need to have a college degree in industrial engineering or manufacturing.
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