Mechanical Engineers
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.
SOC: 17-2141.00
Common Job Titles
Design EngineerMechanical EngineerProduct EngineerProject Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign mechanical systems, tools, and equipment using CAD software and applying engineering principles to meet functional and safety requirements.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate technical solutions for centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems integrating design requirements with operational constraints and cost considerations.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize data from multiple sources including simulation results, test measurements, and operational feedback to develop innovative mechanical solutions and process improvements.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze technical specifications and performance data using finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics software to optimize design solutions.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment installation, operation, and maintenance procedures ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mathematical and scientific principles to solve complex mechanical engineering problems involving thermodynamics, mechanics, and materials science.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess production processes and quality control measures using statistical analysis and testing protocols to ensure product reliability.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute precisely technical drawings and specifications using advanced CAD/CAM systems such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and CATIA.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate technical knowledge with stakeholder requirements when collaborating with interdisciplinary teams on complex engineering projects.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for engineering best practices and safety standards while consulting with external clients and internal teams on mechanical system design and implementation.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation and engineering standards to guide the planning and oversight of equipment installation and maintenance activities.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate testing equipment and measurement instruments including dynamometers, strain gauges, and coordinate measuring machines to validate design specifications.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Mechanical Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
286,760
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $68,740 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $161,240 |
| Workers on average earn | $110,080 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Design4.5/5
- Engineering and Technology4.5/5
- Production and Processing4.3/5
- Mechanical4.2/5
- English Language4.1/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe IllustratorAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DAutodesk RevitBentley MicroStationCC++ChefDassault Systemes SolidWorksESRI ArcGIS softwareMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft DynamicsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft SQL ServerMicrosoft SharePointMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft Visual BasicMicrosoft Visual Basic for Applications VBAMicrosoft WordOracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio ManagementPerlPuppetPythonRSAP softwareShell scriptTeradata DatabaseThe MathWorks MATLABTrimble SketchUp Pro
Technology Skills
1CadCam UnigraphicsANSYS simulation softwareAccelerated life testing softwareAdobe ActionScriptBill of materials softwareBlinkBlue Ridge Numerics CFDesignComputational fluid dynamics CFD software
Tools & Equipment
AccelerometersAcoustic emission AE sensorsAir compressorsAlignersAnalog to digital convertersAnodic wafer bonding systemsChemical-mechanical polishing equipmentComputed tomography CT systems