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What Is a Mechanical Engineer and What Do They Do?

There are nearly 300,000 jobs for mechanical engineers in the United States alone. And, you could have one of them in the future.

Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. So, it has a lot to offer in terms of potential job types and responsibilities.

But, what is a mechanical engineer exactly and what can you do with a mechanical engineering degree?

Keep reading to learn the answers to these and other questions.

What Is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineering is the application of engineering principles and techniques. These kinds of engineers work at multiple levels in the creation process from design to manufacturing.

By using the science behind motion, energy, and force, mechanical engineers can analyze their work. And, they ensure that their designs are safe, efficient, and reliable.

What Do Mechanical Engineers Do?

Since there are products and technologies in every field, mechanical engineers have the ability to work with a wide range of products. They can work in any discipline from automotive and aerospace to biotechnology and cybersecurity.

Every mechanical engineer has to use creativity, knowledge, and analytics to create whatever they’re making. They have to take their drawings and outlines and turn them into a product.

Mechanical Engineer Subspecialties

Mechanical engineers have the experience necessary to help in several subspecialties. After graduation, many mechanical engineers decide to break off into their own specialty depending on their interests.

Here are some of the most popular picks for mechanical engineering specialties:

Computer engineering
Fluid mechanics
Mechatronics
Robotics
Machine design
Automotive design
Automation and control systems
Renewable energy
Construction engineer

With recent technological advancements, opportunities are growing more and more. Soon, your customers will be able to search “mechanical engineer near me” and find your face as one of the best.

To figure out what kind of engineer you should be, take this engineering quiz.

What Can You Do With a Degree in Mechanical Engineering?

A mechanical engineering degree can open doors for anyone. The world depends on mechanical engineers so the degree is priceless.

The way that you use the degree is up to you.

If you decide to work in materials science, you’ll get to determine the best materials for a wide range of applications. By testing strength and stiffness, you’ll be able to find the best materials for things like cars, buildings, and medical supplies.

If you work in manufacturing, you’re responsible for efficiency. You want to get things done as quickly and as easily as possible.

A job in fluid mechanics will have you working with aerodynamics and fluid flow.

There are so many options for you to choose from. Just one degree in mechanical engineering opens up all of these possibilities.

Mechanical Engineer Skills

The number one skill that you’ll need as a mechanical engineer is problem-solving. You have to have the knowledge and creativity required to figure out the best solution(s) for a range of problems.

It also helps to have strong interpersonal skills. You’re going to be working with a team of individuals to meet goals.

You have to be able to network with your team and perhaps lead them when necessary. Leadership may also come in handy as you work up your career ladder.

Lastly, a mechanical engineer has to be able to manage conflict.

Problem-solving alone is one thing. Problem-solving with other people is completely different.

Because there are so many ideas in the mix, you have to be able to decipher and organize these thoughts. Then, you have to determine what direction to go in while people are arguing over the best approach.

Mechanical Engineer Tasks

Since there are a variety of jobs in mechanical engineering, there are also a variety of tasks that a mechanical engineer might find himself/herself completing. The specialty that you choose will determine the kinds of tasks you’ll be completing.

Here are some of the most common tasks that mechanical engineers find themselves doing at work:

Designing concepts
Analyzing data
Working with teams
Creating presentations
Writing reports
Managing projects
Testing products
Creating prototypes
Researching materials
Taking measurements
Working with supplies
Consulting experts
Selling creations
Working with customers

General engineers may complete all of these tasks in the same day, while specialized engineers work on just a few of these tasks regularly.

If any specific tasks pique your interest, you should look into a specialty that focuses on those tasks.

What Is a Mechanical Engineer Salary?

Mechanical engineers are vital. As such, they’re well-paid for their hard work.

The mean entry-level salary for a mechanical engineer is $63,527. But, the mean annual salary is $95,560.

Depending on the specialty that you go into, you could make even more. Materials science engineers make about $5,000 more per year. Mechanical engineers in technology make about $4,000 more per year.

But, those are just the averages.

You could make more if you take the time to build your skills and learn more about the profession.

Should I Hire a Mechanical Engineer?

If you don’t want to go off and get a mechanical engineering degree for yourself, you can hire a mechanical engineer. Our team at PE for Hire can assist you in finding a licensed professional engineer who can help you get your projects done.

Whether you’re building a prototype or finding material solutions, a mechanical engineer is the right choice for the job.

Since many mechanical engineers for hire are self-employed contractors, you can work with them as needed. So, you don’t have to worry about paying for a personal engineer for your company.