Employers of Mechanical Engineering majors in the U.S.

Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems. Mechanical engineers generally work in offices. They may occasionally visit worksites where a problem or piece of equipment needs their personal attention. Mechanical engineers work mostly in engineering services, research and development, and manufacturing. Mechanical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. All states and the District of Columbia require mechanical engineers who sell services to the public to be licensed. The median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $85,880 in May 2017. Employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2016 to 2026, as fast as the average for all occupations. Job prospects may be best for those who stay abreast of the most recent advances in technology.

Mechanical Engineering Technicians

Mechanical engineering technicians help mechanical engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They may make sketches and rough layouts, record and analyze data, make calculations and estimates, and report their findings. Mechanical engineering technicians assist with manufacturing processes in factories or with development phases in research and development labs before manufacturing takes place. Most employers prefer to hire candidates with an associate’s degree or other postsecondary training in mechanical engineering technology. Prospective engineering technicians should take as many science and math courses as possible while in high school. The median annual wage for mechanical engineering technicians was $55,360 in May 2017. Employment of mechanical engineering technicians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. There should be opportunities for those who can master new software and technology in addition to traditional manual skills.