According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of mechanical engineers is expected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032. This rate is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Approximately 19,200 openings for mechanical engineers are projected each year over the decade. Many of these openings will replace employees who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force.
Learn what to expect in a mechanical engineering role in manufacturing to determine whether this role might be right for you.
Mechanical Engineer Responsibilities
A mechanical engineer in manufacturing ensures the operation of equipment, environmental systems, and machinery. The engineer designs, tests, inspects and repairs mechanical systems within a manufacturing facility. Their analytical mind and problem-solving abilities minimize downtime, enhance productivity, and support operational efficiency.
Mechanical Engineer Job Duties
Mechanical engineer job duties in manufacturing include:
- Collaborating with engineers, architects, and professionals in multidisciplinary teams
- Overseeing equipment, mechanical components, and systems used in the manufacturing process
- Evaluating and increasing efficiency in mechanical devices and systems
- Creating and testing mechanical and thermal device prototypes
- Preparing blueprints, reports, user manuals, and other technical documentation
- Analyzing problems with mechanical and thermal devices and developing solutions
Mechanical Engineer Skills
Essential soft skills for a mechanical engineering role in manufacturing include:
- Organization
- Time management
- Leadership
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Analytical thinking
- Creativity
- Detail orientation
- Problem-solving
Important hard skills for a mechanical engineering role in manufacturing include:
- Project management
- Computer-aided design (CAD)
- Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
- Programmable logic control (PLC)
- Geometric dimensioning (GD)
- Data analysis
- Mechanical systems
- Product design
- Product quality
- Technical support
- Process control
- Corrective action
- Sigma
- Lean manufacturing
Mechanical Engineer Education
A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field is required to secure a mechanical engineering role in manufacturing. This degree provides a broad understanding of complex mathematics, physics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, material science, and other core concepts.
Mechanical engineering internships offer hands-on training to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world circumstances. These activities support skill development and decision-making.
A master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field provides deeper insights into areas such as robotics, automotive engineering, and aerospace technology. Also, a doctorate and professional certifications can be beneficial for specialized areas of practice.
Are You Looking for a Mechanical Engineering Role in Manufacturing?
Partner with Connectology to find a mechanical engineering role with a top Wisconsin or Minnesota manufacturing firm. Visit our job board to apply for a role today.
