Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines.

Typical Duties of a Mechanical Engineer:

• Analyze problems to see how a mechanical device might help solve the problem
• Design or redesign mechanical devices, creating blueprints so the device can be built
• Develop a prototype of the device and test the prototype
• Analyze the test results and change the design as needed
• Oversee the manufacturing process for the device

Mechanical engineers use many types of tools, engines, and machines. Examples include the following:

• Power-producing machines such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines
• Power-using machines, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning
• Industrial production equipment, including robots used in manufacturing
• Other machines inside buildings, such as elevators and escalators
• Machine tools and tools for other engineers
• Material-handling systems, such as conveyor systems and automated transfer stations

Like other engineers, mechanical engineers use computers extensively. Computers help mechanical engineers do the following:

• Produce and analyze designs
• Simulate and test how a machine is likely to work
• Generate specifications for parts
• Monitor the quality of products
• Control manufacturing and production

The median annual wage of mechanical engineers was $78,160 in May 2010. The top 10 percent earned more than $119,480, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,550.

The median annual wages in selected industries employing mechanical engineers in May 2010 were as follows:

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.