Mechanical engineers design, construct, install and maintain mechanical machinery, systems, components and tools across a range of sectors, including manufacturing, construction, power, transport, sports and medical.

Mechanical engineering projects are diverse. They include the large scale, for instance developing new ways to harness wave and tidal power or designing modifications to increase efficiency in wind turbines; and the small scale - micromechanics – for example, building prosthetic implants to aid mobility for people with impaired movement. Whichever industry they work in, engineers are normally involved in three key areas:

• research and development – working in a research environment, carrying out feasibility studies for new developments or innovations
• design - using computer-aided design (CAD) software and computer modelling to turn research ideas into technical plans and specifications
• production - designing new production processes or refining existing ones; and planning and supervising the manufacture and installation of machinery and components in line with design specifications and timescales.

All stages include testing, where prototypes are put through rigorous assessment programmes to generate sample data. This is analysed and used to optimise designs before re-testing and production.

Hours and Environment

Mechanical engineers normally work 37 to 40 hours a week. Hours may be longer depending on projects and deadlines.

Working environments can range from quiet, modern, open-plan offices to factory production areas and outdoor sites. Depending on the contract, travel abroad may be required.

Skills and Interests

To be a mechanical engineer, you should:

• have excellent communication and presentation skills
• have excellent analytical skills and an innovative approach to problem solving
• have excellent technical knowledge
• be able to work as part of a team
• be able to prioritise and plan effectively
• have a high level of computer literacy, particularly computer-aided design
• have good commercial awareness
• be able to work under pressure
• be well motivated.

Entry

Entry to the role is usually with a foundation degree, BTEC HNC/HND or degree in mechanical engineering or related engineering subject. These are very widely available at colleges and universities throughout the country.

For a degree course you will need at least five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) and two or three A levels/three or four H grades, normally including maths and physics. Other science subjects such as biology are useful for medical engineering. Equivalent qualifications such as vocational A levels may be acceptable.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

For information about mechanical engineering as a career, see the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, SEMTA, the Institution of Engineering and Technology and Women into Science and Engineering. In addition, the Engineering Training Council (Northern Ireland) has careers information and a course database for local colleges. See their websites in Further Information.

Training

Training is normally on the job. Graduate apprenticeship schemes are available for those holding a first degree. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers operates the Monitored Professional Development Scheme (MPDS) for mechanical engineers, which leads towards chartered status.

Gaining incorporated or chartered status
Professional engineering bodies recommend that you gain incorporated or chartered status to enhance your career prospects. You can achieve this by registering with a professional body and applying to the Engineering Council to start the process.

Chartered engineers normally work at a strategic level, planning, researching and developing new designs and innovations, and streamlining management procedures. They are often project leaders with responsibility for teams of incorporated engineers and technicians. Incorporated engineers specialise in the day-to-day management of engineering operations.

To qualify as an incorporated or chartered mechanical engineer, you need:

• an accredited university qualification
• a period of Initial Professional Development, including practical training to gain experience
• to pass a professional review 
• membership of an appropriate professional body.

As part of the process, you are assessed against UK-SPEC (UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence), developed by professional bodies, employers and the Engineering Council.

For more details about registration and professional development, see the IMechE website in Further Information.

Opportunities

Opportunities are excellent for qualified engineers. Mechanical engineers are employed by a wide range of organisations including:

• local and central government departments
• the armed services
• manufacturers in all industries
• research and development companies
• IT companies
• public utilities.

There are overseas opportunities with British firms of consulting or contracting engineers working for foreign governments, and with international oil and mining companies.

With relevant skills and experience, engineers can specialise in a particular engineering sector and move into roles such as project management, specialist research or consultancy. Chartered engineers may become involved in strategic policy development in a particular sector, eg rail transport.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Graduates start between £19,500 and £22,000.
Experienced mechanical engineers earn between £26,000 and £37,000.
Engineers with chartered status can earn in excess of £40,000 a year.

Further information

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