How to Become a Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers are design machines such as electric generators, steam and gas turbines, and combustion engines. They might design refrigerators, elevators, escalators, and air-conditioning systems. This field requires a very technical skillset. It can be rewarding to witness the fruits of your labor.

Learn more about the mechanical engineering career and how to embark on it.

What do mechanical engineers do?

Mechanical engineers design mechanical devices, mechanical systems, machines, and tools. It’s one of the most popular engineering disciplines that spans many different industries, including automobiles, heating and cooling systems, health care devices, and robotics. These engineers are involved in all stages of the process, from research, design, and development to building and testing. 

As a mechanical engineer, your day-to-day tasks might include: 

• Analyzing problems to identify mechanical solutions

• Designing and redesigning devices, systems, and subsystems with the help of computer-aided design and analysis

• Developing and testing device prototypes and using the results to improve the mechanical design 

• Leading the device manufacturing process

• Improving maintainability and reliability to reduce downtime of systems and equipment

• Researching and meeting with stakeholders to understand needs, requirements, and expectations

How much do mechanical engineers make?

The median annual salary for a mechanical engineer in the United States is $99,510, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. Those working in the field of scientific research and development tend to earn at the higher end of the scale.

The BLS also projects faster-than-average job growth of 10% for mechanical engineers 2022-2032, with 19,200 job openings projected annually.

How to become a mechanical engineer

Mechanical engineers are highly skilled professionals. These steps can help you land a job as a mechanical engineer.

1. Earn a degree in mechanical engineering.

Mechanical engineers typically need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Coursework includes life sciences, mathematics, physical sciences, engineering, and design. Another major to consider is mechanical engineering technology, which focuses on applying engineering principles in practical fields.

Later, if you decide you want to go into a more specialized area of the field, like robots or automotive technology, you'll need to get a master's degree. If you have an interest in teaching or research, you should pursue a doctorate degree.

2. Develop your technical skills.

You'll be using computers regularly as a mechanical engineer, so it makes sense to gain proficiency in relevant areas of IT and computer science. Having strong tech skills will be particularly useful down the road if you're working on integrating sensors into machinery or using technology to analyze designs or run simulations. Build a strong foundation in technology with Applied Data Science with Python or Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Specializations.

3. Get licensed.

If you want to be more independent or achieve higher leadership levels, consider getting licensed in your state. To do so, you’ll need to have a set number of years of relevant work experience and pass a licensure exam. Start gaining valuable experience with internships, boot camps, and entry-level jobs.

Do I need a certification to be a mechanical engineer?

Although you typically don't need a license or certification for entry-level jobs, you will likely need one or more for high-level mechanical engineering jobs. Examples include a Professional Engineer (PE) license, manufacturing engineering certification, and certified systems engineering professional credential.

4. Strengthen your soft skills.

Communication is key, and employers look for candidates who are capable of explaining their designs and concepts to colleagues and clients who may not be familiar with mechanical engineering terms or systems. You also might be tasked with writing reports, so you'll need to be proficient in written communication too. Other skills you’ll likely need include excellent organization, time management, problem-solving, and attention to detail. 

5. Create a resume that gets noticed.

Write a resume that highlights the skills that are most relevant to each engineering job you apply for. Highlight relevant work experiences and education as well. Be sure to craft a resume that's rich in keywords and industry-specific phrases, which will help your resume make it past automated systems.

6. Practice common interview questions.

Going to your first interview doesn't have to be nerve-wracking. Go over some common interview questions ahead of time to build confidence so you can go into an interview feeling prepared. Although every interviewer has their own style, these are a few questions you’re likely to encounter: 

• General questions to get a sense of your background and expertise, including questions about the first thing you designed or how you'd explain complicated designs to people without an engineering background

• Behavioral questions designed to get a sense of how you work, which might include questions about mistakes you’ve made in the past or examples of situations in which you had to provide data to support an important decision

• Technical questions geared toward your discipline or the specialty required by the job, with possible questions about cold drawing processes or the purpose of heat treatment

7. Build your network.

Your alma mater, mechanical engineering societies, and networking events can all be potential sources to lead you to your next great job. Stay connected and actively seek out new connections to extend your network. Additionally, it’s important to continue learning even after you get a job so that you can remain on top of the newest technologies and techniques. 

Stand out as a mechanical engineer

As you gain the skills and experience necessary to become a mechanical engineer, you may want to learn business fundamentals and gain niche skills. Having a strong business acumen can help you get ahead, since engineering firms are looking to hire skilled engineers who understand how total production costs affect decisions. Plus, gaining training on design skills outside of mechanical engineering can help give you leverage in the job market.

Start advancing your skills today

Enroll in Introduction to Engineering Mechanics from Georgia Tech. Alternately, build your job-ready technical skills with the Autodesk CAD/CAM/CAE for Mechanical Engineering Specialization from Autodesk.