Mechanical engineering jobs | Top 7 things you must know!

With several students showing interest in mechanical engineering, it is important to understand the subject well and explore all the opportunities it has to offer.

To start with, mechanical engineers mainly focus on the design and construction of machines. This involves testing, analysis, modifications, and also finding cost-effective methods to improve how a machine works.  

As almost every industry – from food and music to automobile and healthcare – uses machines, there are many job opportunities for mechanical engineers. Mechanical engineers can also work in government sectors, like railways, transport, army postings, etc..

Now that we have an overall idea of the scope of mechanical engineering jobs, let’s look at some other important aspects…

#1 Eligibility criteria

The first requirement to get a mechanical engineering job is passing your high school from a recognized institution. During this time, physics, chemistry, and mathematics must be the 3 major subjects you have studied. Since various colleges have cut-offs for admissions, you should also have the required percentage to join an undergraduate course. 

Several mechanical engineering jobs will be accessible after your 3 to 4-year undergraduate course. And if interested, you could choose to pursue a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering instead, for which you will need-

1. A graduation certificate with a minimum 50% aggregate
2. A valid report card for the entrance exam (compulsory for undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate, and Ph.D. programs)

While it’s important to have proper understanding and knowledge of physics, applied engineering, and mathematics, the requirements don’t stop there. You will also need to master a particular domain in order to land more opportunities. We have listed some of them below.

#2 Mechanical engineering jobs

Once you become a mechanical engineer, you can sign up for several job profiles based on your interests.

Here are a few options you can consider-

Aerospace engineer 

Under this job profile, you will have to design and maintain aircrafts and spacecrafts. The job focuses on the how space crafts are used within and out of the atmosphere. The job will also require you to to maintain and assemble spacecraft, aircraft, missiles, and weapon systems. If you are keen on government jobs for mechanical engineers, then this may well be your best bet.

Maintenance engineer 

This job role allows you to keep a check on the functioning of the machines and equipment. You will be responsible for the installation and maintenance of industrial equipment. Along with this, you will also need to conduct routine checks, manage any issues, and make on-site repairs when required. 

Automotive engineer

Automobiles are designed and upgraded frequently to meet consumer demands. The job requires skilled engineers to carry out research and development. Design, production, and functionality are three very important aspects that automotive engineers need to take care of when designing vehicles.

Control and instrumentation engineer

In order to monitor machines, one must know about the equipment installation, management, and maintenance. You will be responsible for all these, along with designing, developing, and installing equipment that can be used to monitor and control machinery and processes. In the end, your job will be to ensure that the entire system is working well and without any hindrance.

Contracting civil engineer

As the name suggests, contracting civil engineers focus on the construction of buildings, highways, dams, and canals, etc. You will be responsible for on-site work and must also fix any on-site problems that may crop up. Sometimes, you will be required for safety inspection, and at other times, you will be needed for design and approval.

Nuclear engineer 

Nuclear power stations require technical support. There are machines that must be run properly, even as they are dismantled, built, and operated. A nuclear engineer helps run this entire process smoothly.

As you can see, mechanical engineering gives you a lot of scope for growth, doesn’t matter if you’re a fresher or an experienced candidate.

But you need a few basic skills to get there. Let’s have a look at them one by one.

#3 Mechanical engineer skills

Since more and more people are interested in taking up mechanical engineering, it’s important you have the right skill set so you can stand out from your competition.

1. Creativity is an important factor when it comes to designing. If you have a creative mind, you will find a way to work with complex equipment and machinery.
2. Listening skills are crucial since you need to understand and meet project requirements. You must be a good listener so you can work with a team and deliver your projects on time. 
3. Math skills will help you in analysis, design, and also equip you to solve any problem quickly.
4. Problem-solving is the best skill to have as a mechanical engineer. You will constantly be tested through troubleshooting problems at work. So it’s important you work with a calm yet analytical mind. 

#4 Best places to find mechanical engineering jobs

1. Mechanical engineering jobs in the USA

There are several job openings for mechanical engineers in the United States. The manufacturing industries and companies here are constantly evolving and reinventing. If you are looking forward to gaining expertise in this field, consider applying for jobs in the USA. 

2. Jobs in Germany

While the entire world is facing an economic slowdown due to recent events, there remains a high demand for mechanical engineers in German companies. The largest numbers of job vacancies in engineering are available in the Hamburg and Stuttgart areas as well as in the cities of Berlin and Munich. You can easily apply for a position online and follow the necessary procedures to make a move.

3. Jobs in Japan

Japan is a country with a large technological sector, and mechanical engineers are in high demand. The opportunities you’ll find will range from maintenance and inspection to testing and assisting with product design. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that conversational language proficiency may be required. To make it easier, most companies are willing to enroll employees in language training programs. 

4. Jobs in Delhi, India

Working in the capital city of India will naturally give you a chance to look at work opportunities in a variety of industries. Delhi is a great place to stay and you can find both part time as well as full-time jobs here.

#5 Best universities for mechanical engineering

Here is a list of the 10 best ranked mechanical engineering colleges in the world-

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2. Georgia Institute of Technology
3. Stanford University
4. University of California
5. California Institute of Technology
6. University of Michigan
7. Purdue University
8. Carnegie Mellon University
9. Cornell University
10. University of Texas

#6 FAQs

1. Where can I find mechanical engineering jobs?

Answer- The best way to find jobs near you is by networking effectively. Also, keep updating your LinkedIn profile as and keep an eye out for on-campus placements. 

2. What is the starting salary in mechanical engineering jobs?

Answer- While it largely differs based on where you are working, your job profile, and your qualifications, you can expect to earn $63,527 when you start working as a mechanical engineer. 

3. Which other types of engineering courses are available these days?

Answer- There are other types of engineering courses available such as chemical engineering, industrial engineering, petroleum engineering, materials engineering, and more.

#7 What’s Next?

Job opportunities for mechanical engineers are on the rise globally. Since manufacturers are scaling up, technologies are evolving and we are more dependent on engineers than we were ever before.

So start by focusing on your long-term goals and be open to learning and adapting. This will help you kick-start your career in mechanical engineering in the best way possible.

We hope this list gave you clarity about mechanical engineering jobs and provided you with the options you need to get started.

But in case you’re feeling stuck or have any questions, feel free to reach out to us or drop a comment below! 

See you in the next blog! 

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Study Abroad Expert

Aastha Arya is a Senior Content Writer at iSchoolConnect who writes about topics covering study abroad trends, exclusive news updates and prolific college courses. She has a 4-year of experience in this field and also likes to keep tabs on recent events, visa policy changes, and many other concerns that affect international students.

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