Understanding the mechanical engineering job description is important for anyone thinking about a career in mechanical engineering. Although there are many different types of engineers, this is one that many people gravitate to and also a career in high demand. Of all engineering disciplines, mechanical is one of the oldest and most respected, and a discipline that concentrates on science and math applications.

One of the things that make mechanical engineering unique is the broad array of disciplines. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, an individual could focus on standard duties whereas with this degree and additional specialized education, the same person would have the opportunity to move into advanced disciplines or work a combination of the two. In either case, mechanical engineering is a complex, challenging, and reward career opportunity worth the time it takes to earn the appropriate degree.

Basic Responsibilities

At minimum, the mechanical engineering job description includes using math and physics principles to help with the design of a product with a particular function. These skills are used by multiple industries, adding to the excitement of mechanical engineering. With this, literally any system with moving parts would be handled by the engineer. To accomplish this, expertise in friction, inertia, center of balance, force, and work would be imperative, which comes from earning a degree.

Some of the work performed by a mechanical engineer is special, such as robotics, automotive engines, and so on. No matter the project, most mechanical engineers are responsible for a single component of a very large system. This individual would work from established and desired requirements, with the goal to discover the most effective and efficient solution. Depending on the system and the project, a mechanical engineer would find resolution alone or as a member of a team.

Although smaller companies often depend on a single mechanical engineer for the work needing to be done, it is common for larger companies to have entire teams. However, in the case of a complex system, having several mechanical engineers working together would be standard practice since finding solutions often means brainstorming to come up with different opinions and angles.

Because of modern technology, duties of a mechanical engineer have become extremely advanced. Therefore, having input from several licensed engineers makes it possible to determine which parts of a system should be left alone and which parts need to be modified or replaced. Of course, while looking for viable solutions, another aspect of the mechanical engineering job description is trying to keep to a budget and increase the company’s bottom line but without sacrificing on integrity.

Employment Opportunities

Because the mechanical engineering job description is so precise, complex, and intricate, this type of professional is in high demand for some of the world’s best known corporations such as Audi, Hyundai, and Ford. However, mechanical engineers also play vital roles within small companies and even mom and pop machine shops where tools and products are made for consumer use.

Job opportunities are in abundance for a mechanical engineer, especially the person who has education, training, and experience in multiple disciplines of this engineering field. Although it is common for an engineer to seek employment with corporations, there are some that work as independent contractors or consultants. In addition, some mechanical engineers focus on research and development, sometimes in the field and sometimes in a laboratory environment.

The person with the appropriate education and training and someone qualified to find flaws in large systems is invaluable. After first earning an undergraduate degree, it would be common for a mechanical engineer without actual work experience to work alongside an engineer with advanced education and years of experience. This provides the opportunity for the individual to gain incredible hands-on knowledge, which would ultimately prove beneficial to the company.

Education Requirements and Salary Potential

No matter the exact mechanical engineering job description, this professional must earn a college degree with focus on mechanical engineering. Although it is possible to be hired with an Associate’s Degree, most companies, regardless of size or reputation, prefer someone with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. At any level, one of the most important decisions a person can make is choosing an accredited college or university since hiring companies look at this information on resumes of potential employees.

As part of mechanical engineering programs, an individual would be provided with all necessary curriculums to include actively participating in various design projects and research. It would also be highly recommended for the person interested in a career such as this to consider a school that offers internship programs, which would also boost the chance of being hired. As far as potential salary, a person would earn on average $80,000 a year although with advanced education for multiple disciplines, earning potential could be as high as $115,000.