Mechanical Engineers
Did You Know:*
- Employment is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations, although growth will vary by specialty; overall job opportunities for engineers are expected to be good.
- A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some research positions may require a graduate degree.
- Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates.
- Continuing education is critical for engineers in order to keep up with improvements in technology.
Industry Areas
- Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services
- Scientific Research and Development Services
- Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation)
Day-to-Day Tasks*
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
- Assist drafters in developing the structural design of products using drafting tools or computer-assisted design (CAD) or drafting equipment and software.
- Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, and maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems and processes to meet requirements, applying knowledge of engineering principles.
Overall Kind of Work*
Engineers apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between scientific discoveries and the commercial applicatio...
Work Environment*
Civilian
Most engineers work in office buildings, laboratories or industrial plants. Others may spend time outdoors at construction sites and oil and gas exploration and production sites, where they monito...
Workweek Breakdown
The hours worked per week by people currently pursuing this career.
- 0.33% (0-20 Hours)
- 3.49% (21-34 Hours)
- 0.36% (35-39 Hours)
- 68.19% (40 Hours)
- 11.06% (41-49 Hours)
- 16.59% (Over 50 Hours)
This data also pertains to Mechanical engineers (17-2141)
Type of Work
The level of day-to-day involvement with data, people or things.
Data: 
People: 
Things:
Skills at a Glance
The levels of different skills helpful in this career.
Verbal skills:
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: 
Equipment Operation & Maintenance:
Math & Science Skills:
Technology Design & Control:
Leadership:
Workplace at a Glance
The level of different environmental factors you would experience on the job.
Responsibility:
Exposure to Job Hazards:
Physical Activity:
Decision Making:
Repetitiveness:
Level of Competition:
Time Pressure:
Business Breakdown
The different sectors people in this career currently work in.
- 91.14% (Private For-Profit)
- 1.59% (Private Not For-Profit)
- 1.39% (State and Local Govt)
- 3.19% (Federal Government)
- 2.70% (Self-Employed)