Mechanical Engineers
Tasks Include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
- Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information.
- Research and analyze customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, or other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, or maintenance requirements of designs or applications.
- Provide feedback to design engineers on customer problems or needs.
- Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, or repair to ensure that machines or equipment are installed and functioning according to specifications.
- Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment, components, or systems.
- Recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.
- Develop, coordinate, or monitor all aspects of production, including selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, or operation of product designs.
more »
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet28)
Projections Quick View:
Virginia: +6.6%
National: +2.2%
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Job Zone:
Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Income Range:
Highest ($50,000 and up)
Median Earnings:
National
$96,310.00
State
$98,060.00
Regional
Mechanical Engineers
Description
Career Cluster: | Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics |
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.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Education
Required Level of Education
- Bachelor's Degree = 82.92%
- Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) = 6.90%
- Some College Courses = 4.77%
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master. = 4.67%
- Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production) = 0.38%
- Master's Degree = 0.37%
Related Work Experience
- Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years = 26.40%
- Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 25.93%
- Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years = 17.61%
- Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 10.38%
- Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 6.98%
- Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years = 5.90%
- None = 4.18%
- Over 10 years = 2.62%
On-Site or In-Plant Training
- None = 28.43%
- Up to and including 1 month = 27.06%
- Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 18.04%
- Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 11.81%
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 9.41%
- Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 3.65%
- Over 10 years = 0.63%
- Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 0.50%
- Over 4 years, up to and including 10 years = 0.48%
On-the-Job Training
- Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 23.81%
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 22.53%
- None or short demonstration = 16.09%
- Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 14.22%
- Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 13.17%
- Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month = 5.32%
- Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 3.75%
- Over 4 years, up to and including 10 years = 1.10%
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Tasks
Core Tasks Include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
- Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information.
- Research and analyze customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, or other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, or maintenance requirements of designs or applications.
- Provide feedback to design engineers on customer problems or needs.
- Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, or repair to ensure that machines or equipment are installed and functioning according to specifications.
- Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment, components, or systems.
- Recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.
- Develop, coordinate, or monitor all aspects of production, including selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, or operation of product designs.
- Design test control apparatus or equipment or develop procedures for testing products.
- Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, or maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems or processes to meet requirements.
- Investigate equipment failures or difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and recommend remedial actions.
- Develop or test models of alternate designs or processing methods to assess feasibility, sustainability, operating condition effects, potential new applications, or necessity of modification.
- Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering design, performance specifications, or environmental regulations.
- Assist drafters in developing the structural design of products, using drafting tools or computer-assisted drafting equipment or software.
- Estimate costs or submit bids for engineering, construction, or extraction projects.
Supplemental Tasks Include:
- Establish or coordinate the maintenance or safety procedures, service schedule, or supply of materials required to maintain machines or equipment in the prescribed condition.
- Write performance requirements for product development or engineering projects.
- Apply engineering principles or practices to emerging fields, such as robotics, waste management, or biomedical engineering.
- Calculate energy losses for buildings, using equipment such as computers, combustion analyzers, or pressure gauges.
- Design integrated mechanical or alternative systems, such as mechanical cooling systems with natural ventilation systems, to improve energy efficiency.
- Direct the installation, operation, maintenance, or repair of renewable energy equipment, such as heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) or water systems.
- Evaluate mechanical designs or prototypes for energy performance or environmental impact.
- Recommend the use of utility or energy services that minimize carbon footprints.
- Select or install combined heat units, power units, cogeneration equipment, or trigeneration equipment that reduces energy use or pollution.
- Perform personnel functions, such as supervision of production workers, technicians, technologists, or other engineers.
- Solicit new business.
- Provide technical customer service.
- Study industrial processes to maximize the efficiency of equipment applications, including equipment placement.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Tools and Technology
Tools Include:
- Accelerometers
- Acoustic sensors (Acoustic emission AE sensors)
- Air compressors
- Semiconductor process systems (Aligners)
- Voltage comparator integrated circuits (Analog to digital converters)
- Semiconductor process systems (Anodic wafer bonding systems)
- Grinding or polishing machines (Chemical-mechanical polishing equipment)
- Medical computed tomography CT or CAT complete stationery unit installations (Computed tomography CT systems)
- Semiconductor process systems (Contact lithography equipment)
- High voltage cable detection (Contact testers)
- Coordinate measuring machines CMM
- Infrared spectrometers (Cryogenic apparatus)
- Semiconductor process systems (Deep reactive ion etchers DRIE)
- Flowmeters (Digital particle image velocimeters)
- Voltage comparator integrated circuits (Digital to analog converters)
- Strain gauges (Dynamic strain indicators)
- Dynamometers
- Thickness measuring devices (Ellipsometers)
- Semiconductor process systems (Evaporation systems)
- Semiconductor process systems (Flip-chip wafer bonding systems)
- Spectrometers (Fluorescence spectrometers)
- Force or torque sensors (Force transducers)
- Signal generators (Function generators)
- Cold forming presses (Fused deposition modeling machines)
- Heat exchangers
- Infrared imagers (Infrared thermography cameras)
- Interferometers
- Interferometers (Interferometric microscopes)
- Scanners (Laser digitizers)
- Flowmeters (Laser Doppler anemometers)
- Flowmeters (Laser Doppler velocimeters LDV)
- Plotter printers (Multi-pen plotters)
- Multimeters
- Hardness testers (Nano indentation systems)
- Coordinate measuring machines CMM (Optical laser scanners)
- Fiber sensors (Optical sensors)
- Oscilloscopes
- Signal generators (Pattern generators)
- Personal computers
- Photoelastic testing instruments (Photoelastic testing machines)
- Flowmeters (Pitot tubes)
- Semiconductor process systems (Plasma etchers)
- Proximity sensors (Position transducers)
- Semiconductor process systems (Precision positioning tables)
- Microcontrollers (Programmable logic controllers PLC)
- Semiconductor process systems (Projection lithography equipment)
- Proximity sensors (Radio frequency sensors)
- Cold forming presses (Rapid thermal processing systems)
- Scanning electron microscopes (Scanning electron microscopes SEM)
- Scanning probe microscopes (Scanning probe microscopes SPM)
- Scanning probe microscopes (Scanning tunneling microscopes STM)
- Fatigue testers (Servohydraulic material testing machines)
- Frequency analyzers (Spectrum analyzers)
- Semiconductor process systems (Spin-coaters)
- Semiconductor process systems (Sputtering systems)
- Step drive or stepper drive or step indexer (Steppers)
- Strain gauges
- Roughness measuring instruments (Stylus profilometers)
- Flow transmitters (Subsonic wind tunnels)
- Flow transmitters (Supersonic wind tunnels)
- Roughness measuring instruments (Surface profilometers)
- Force or torque sensors (Torque transducers)
- Torque converters (Torsional converters)
- Programmable tube furnaces (Vapor deposition tube furnaces)
- Speed sensors (Velocity transducers)
- Machine mounts or vibration isolators (Vibration control systems)
- Machine mounts or vibration isolators (Vibration isolators)
- Vibration testers
- Video editors (Video editing equipment)
- Semiconductor process systems (Wafer bonding systems)
- Semiconductor process systems (Wafer dicing saws)
- Semiconductor process systems (Wire bonders)
- Wire cathode electrode discharge machine (Wire electrical discharge machines)
- X ray radiography examination equipment (X ray radiographic systems)
- X ray radiography examination equipment (X ray tubes)
Technologies Include:
- Analytical or scientific software
- Accelerated life testing software
- ANSYS software
- Modal analysis software
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- Blue Ridge Numerics CFDesign
- Statistical software
- Computational fluid dynamics CFD software
- Motion analysis software
- Statistical energy analysis SEA software
- ReliaSoft Weibull++ 6
- MAYA Nastran
- ReliaSoft BlockSim
- Data acquisition software
- Design of experiments DOE software
- Life cycle cost software
- Failure mode and effects analysis FMEA software
- Finite element method FEM software
- ReliaSoft Alta 6 Pro
- Grid generation software
- Reliability analysis software
- Sigmetrix CETOL 6 Sigma
- Mesh generation software
- Video analysis software
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computer aided design CAD software
- COSMOSWorks software
- Failure assessment software
- InnovMetric PolyWorks
- Lambda Research OSLO
- Mathsoft Mathcad
- Intergraph Plant Design System PDS
- Metrix Imageware Surfacer
- Optical analysis software
- PTC Pro/ENGINEER software
- PTC Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire
- PTC Pro/Sheetmetal
- Reverse engineering software
- Zeemax software
- SolidWorks CAD software
- UGS I-DEAS
- Autodesk AutoCAD software
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Rapid prototyping software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Microsoft Access
- Development environment software
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- Hewlett-Packard HP Graphics Language HPGL
- Rockwell Software
- Ladder Logic
- MUMPS M
- National Instruments LabVIEW
- Financial analysis software
- Cost estimation software
- Industrial control software
- Human machine interface HMI software
- Computer numerical control CNC software
- Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
- Bill of materials software
- Object or component oriented development software
- G-code
- C++
- Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Project management software
- Microsoft Project
- Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
- Word processing software
- Microsoft Word
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Special Requirements
EIT (Engineer-in-Training) EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must meet one of the following:
• Graduate of approved curriculum of 4 years or more OR Graduate of non-approved curriculum + 2 years of experience
• Must be enrolled in an ABET accredited curriculum and within 12 months of degree.
• Graduated from a non-approved engineering technology curriculum + 6 years of experience
• Graduated with an undergraduate degree from an institution without an approved curriculum and obtained a graduate degree from an institution with an approved curriculum
Step 1:
|
|
Graduation
The first step is graduating from an ABET-accredited engineering program at a college or university. |
Step 2:
|
|
FE Exam
The first exam in the licensure process is the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE). This exam is offered in April and October every year. Most students take the exam right before graduation or soon after while the technical information they've studied is still fresh in their minds. |
Step 3:
|
|
Work Experience
Many jurisdictions have specific requirements about the type of experience you need to gain. Most require that you gain experience under the supervision of someone who is already licensed, and that your experience involve increasing levels of responsibility. Once you begin work, contact your licensing board to find out what experience is needed and talk with professional engineers in your company to find out how you can gain this experience. |
Step 4:
|
|
PE Exam
Once you have gained the appropriate experience, you can take the second exam in the licensure process, the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE). This exam is given in a variety of engineering disciplines. Most disciplines are offered in both April and October, but some are offered only in October. |
After completing all the steps in the engineering licensure process—education, experience, and examinations—you are eligible for licensure by your licensing board.
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Must have a bachelor’s degree from an approved curriculum + 4 years of professional experience as an EIT OR Graduate of non-approved curriculum + 6 years of professional experience as an EIT
• Graduated from a non-approved engineering technology curriculum of four years or more + 10 years experience
• Graduate from an accredited undergraduate engineering degree and a doctorate degree in engineering from an institution with an accredited undergraduate program + 4 years of experience
• Graduated from an engineering , engineering technology or related science curriculum of four years or more + 20 years
EXAM:
• The Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam
• Must provide 3 references from licensed professional engineers
LICENSE RENEWAL: The Professional Engineer license must be renewed every two years.
Required Fees:
The examination fee shall consist of the administration expenses of the department resulting from the board’s examination procedures and contract charges.
For More Information, Contact:
Virginia Department Of Professional And Occupational Regulation
Board For Architects / Prof. Engineers / Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers, And Landscape Architects
3600 West Broad St.
Richmond, VA 23230-4917
Phone: 804.367.8512
TTY: 804.367.9753
Fax: 804.367.2475
http://www.state.va.us/dpor/indexie.html
The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Additional Resources
Further information about mechanical engineers is available from:
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Three Park Ave.
New York, NY 10016
http://www.asme.org
The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Knowledge
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
97.25 | Engineering and Technology | Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. |
92.00 | Mathematics | Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. |
89.75 | Design | Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. |
84.00 | Mechanical | Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. |
83.75 | Physics | Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes. |
81.00 | English Language | Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. |
70.00 | Computers and Electronics | Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming. |
68.25 | Production and Processing | Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. |
57.75 | Customer and Personal Service | Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. |
54.00 | Chemistry | Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods. |
53.25 | Administration and Management | Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. |
51.00 | Education and Training | Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. |
50.00 | Administrative | Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Skills
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
72.00 | Reading Comprehension | Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. |
72.00 | Active Listening | Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. |
72.00 | Science | Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. |
72.00 | Critical Thinking | Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems. |
72.00 | Mathematics | Using mathematics to solve problems. |
68.75 | Operations Analysis | Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. |
68.75 | Judgment and Decision Making | Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one. |
68.75 | Complex Problem Solving | Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. |
59.50 | Active Learning | Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making. |
59.50 | Systems Evaluation | Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system. |
56.25 | Writing | Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. |
56.25 | Quality Control Analysis | Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance. |
56.25 | Technology Design | Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. |
56.25 | Systems Analysis | Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes. |
53.00 | Speaking | Talking to others to convey information effectively. |
53.00 | Monitoring | Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action. |
53.00 | Time Management | Managing one's own time and the time of others. |
50.00 | Coordination | Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. |
50.00 | Persuasion | Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. |
50.00 | Service Orientation | Actively looking for ways to help people. |
50.00 | Operations Monitoring | Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly. |
50.00 | Troubleshooting | Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Abilities
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
75.00 | Oral Comprehension | The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. |
75.00 | Written Comprehension | The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. |
75.00 | Information Ordering | The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations). |
72.00 | Problem Sensitivity | The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem. |
72.00 | Deductive Reasoning | The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense. |
72.00 | Inductive Reasoning | The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events). |
72.00 | Mathematical Reasoning | The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem. |
68.75 | Near Vision | The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). |
65.50 | Number Facility | The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. |
62.50 | Oral Expression | The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. |
62.50 | Visualization | The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged. |
59.50 | Fluency of Ideas | The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity). |
59.50 | Category Flexibility | The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways. |
56.25 | Written Expression | The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. |
56.25 | Originality | The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem. |
56.25 | Speech Clarity | The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. |
56.25 | Speech Recognition | The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. |
53.00 | Flexibility of Closure | The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material. |
50.00 | Perceptual Speed | The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Work Activities
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
88.50 | Working with Computers | Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. |
85.00 | Making Decisions and Solving Problems | Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. |
81.50 | Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates | Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. |
80.00 | Analyzing Data or Information | Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. |
79.25 | Getting Information | Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. |
77.75 | Processing Information | Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. |
72.25 | Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings | Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. |
71.25 | Thinking Creatively | Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. |
70.75 | Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge | Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. |
70.25 | Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment | Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used. |
69.25 | Documenting/Recording Information | Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form. |
66.75 | Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information | Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity. |
65.75 | Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships | Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. |
64.75 | Communicating with People Outside the Organization | Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. |
59.25 | Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others | Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. |
59.00 | Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work | Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. |
56.75 | Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People | Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. |
55.00 | Providing Consultation and Advice to Others | Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics. |
54.25 | Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials | Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. |
54.00 | Training and Teaching Others | Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others. |
53.25 | Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events | Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. |
50.75 | Developing Objectives and Strategies | Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them. |
49.50 | Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards | Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Work Styles
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
94.50 | Analytical Thinking | Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. |
93.25 | Attention to Detail | Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. |
91.00 | Innovation | Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems. |
87.25 | Dependability | Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. |
86.25 | Integrity | Job requires being honest and ethical. |
85.50 | Cooperation | Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude. |
81.00 | Adaptability/Flexibility | Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. |
77.75 | Persistence | Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles. |
76.50 | Leadership | Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction. |
74.25 | Stress Tolerance | Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations. |
73.50 | Independence | Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done. |
73.00 | Initiative | Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges. |
72.50 | Achievement/Effort | Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks. |
71.75 | Self-Control | Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations. |
59.75 | Concern for Others | Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job. |
59.00 | Social Orientation | Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Work Values
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
77.83 | Recognition | Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status. |
72.17 | Achievement | Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement. |
72.17 | Independence | Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy. |
69.50 | Working Conditions | Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions. |
61.17 | Relationships | Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service. |
61.17 | Support | Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Work Context
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
98.60 | Face-to-Face Discussions | How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job? |
94.60 | Telephone | How often do you have telephone conversations in this job? |
92.00 | Structured versus Unstructured Work | To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals? |
89.60 | Freedom to Make Decisions | How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer? |
89.00 | Contact With Others | How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it? |
88.80 | Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets | How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets? |
87.20 | Importance of Being Exact or Accurate | How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job? |
86.00 | Electronic Mail | How often do you use electronic mail in this job? |
84.00 | Work With Work Group or Team | How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job? |
83.40 | Indoors, Environmentally Controlled | How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions? |
83.40 | Frequency of Decision Making | How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization? |
77.20 | Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results | What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer? |
76.40 | Time Pressure | How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines? |
76.20 | Coordinate or Lead Others | How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job? |
71.20 | Level of Competition | To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures? |
69.80 | Importance of Repeating Same Tasks | How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job? |
69.80 | Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable | How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable? |
68.60 | Spend Time Sitting | How much does this job require sitting? |
67.00 | Responsibility for Outcomes and Results | How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers? |
66.60 | Physical Proximity | To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people? |
62.40 | Letters and Memos | How often does the job require written letters and memos? |
61.40 | Consequence of Error | How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable? |
61.00 | Frequency of Conflict Situations | How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job? |
60.40 | Deal With External Customers | How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job? |
59.60 | Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls | How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls? |
59.40 | Responsible for Others' Health and Safety | How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job? |
59.00 | Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People | How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements? |
57.60 | Exposed to Hazardous Equipment | How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment? |
57.60 | Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled | How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)? |
54.80 | Spend Time Standing | How much does this job require standing? |
50.00 | Public Speaking | How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job? |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
- Overall Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Job Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
- Examples
- Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include real estate brokers, sales managers, database administrators, graphic designers, conservation scientists, art directors, and cost estimators.
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Earnings Benefits*
Region | Entry Level | Median | Experienced |
---|---|---|---|
United States | $61,990.00 | $96,310.00 | $122,680.00 |
Virginia | $63,400.00 | $98,060.00 | $119,150.00 |
Region | Entry Level | Median | Experienced |
Alexandria/Arlington | $85,626.28 | $107,813.50 | $142,606.28 |
Bay Consortium | $82,274.21 | $112,684.80 | $132,021.51 |
Capital Region Workforce Partnership | $68,108.91 | $85,217.14 | $102,691.94 |
Central VA/Region2000 | $59,412.02 | $79,771.58 | $96,541.28 |
Crater Area | $70,772.50 | $106,518.57 | $121,316.28 |
Greater Peninsula | $67,527.39 | $99,595.32 | $112,098.08 |
Hampton Roads | $70,119.33 | $93,470.63 | $109,158.27 |
New River/Mt. Rogers | $58,754.69 | $82,137.14 | $99,027.30 |
Northern Virginia | $88,305.45 | $107,015.98 | $138,083.90 |
Piedmont Workforce | $69,830.64 | $102,549.67 | $121,391.05 |
Shenandoah Valley | No Data | No Data | No Data |
South Central | $52,192.81 | $64,418.31 | $88,363.60 |
Southwestern Virginia | $62,516.94 | $98,684.61 | $119,124.14 |
West Piedmont | $66,183.65 | $91,615.98 | $105,779.20 |
Western Virginia | $59,226.14 | $82,498.52 | $94,380.30 |
* Earnings Calculations:
Regional Earnings:
Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.
National and State Earnings:
Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Employment Projections
Current | Projected | % Change | |
---|---|---|---|
United States | 284,900 | 291,300 | +2.2% |
Virginia | 7,544 | 8,044 | +6.6% |
Region | Current* | Projected | % Change |
Alexandria/Arlington | 270 | 285 | +5.6% |
Bay Consortium | 372 | 382 | +2.7% |
Capital Region Workforce Partnership | 847 | 920 | +8.6% |
Central VA/Region2000 | 198 | 232 | +17.2% |
Crater Area | No Data | No Data | No Data |
Greater Peninsula | 1,043 | 1,181 | +13.2% |
Hampton Roads | 1,240 | 1,301 | +4.9% |
New River/Mt. Rogers | 232 | 278 | +19.8% |
Northern Virginia | 2,354 | 2,428 | +3.1% |
Piedmont Workforce | 240 | 250 | +4.2% |
Shenandoah Valley | 278 | 333 | +19.8% |
South Central | No Data | No Data | No Data |
Southwestern Virginia | 120 | 111 | -7.5% |
West Piedmont | 89 | 143 | +60.7% |
Western Virginia | 275 | 246 | -10.5% |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Related Occupations
Related Occupations
The related occupations here have similar general capabilities and interests; career explorers may also be interested in the related occupations:- Electrical Engineers
- Mechatronics Engineers
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians
- Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Automotive Engineers
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Industrial Engineers
- Fuel Cell Engineers
- Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics
- Aerospace Engineers
- Automotive Engineering Technicians
- Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Robotics Technicians
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
- Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Careers in Engineering and Technology Pathway:
- Aerospace Engineers
- Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Automotive Engineers
- Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
- Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
- Chemical Engineers
- Computer Hardware Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
- Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
- Engineers, All Other
- Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers
- Fuel Cell Engineers
- Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
- Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
- Industrial Engineers
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Marine Engineers and Naval Architects
- Materials Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Mechatronics Engineers
- Microsystems Engineers
- Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
- Nanosystems Engineers
- Nuclear Engineers
- Petroleum Engineers
- Photonics Engineers
- Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists
- Robotics Engineers
- Solar Energy Systems Engineers
- Validation Engineers
- Wind Energy Engineers
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
View Videos
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CareerOneStop Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Videos
Overview
Occupations
The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee; CareerOneStop. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Military Training
The following military job classifications are available for this occupation:
- Aviation Maintenance and Allied
- Construction and Utilities
The data sources for the information displayed here include: Defense Manpower Data Center. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Proficiency Ratings
These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Titles
- Air Conditioning Engineer
- Auto Research Engineer
- Automation Engineer
- Body Engineer
- Brake Engineer
- Car Designer
- Chassis Systems Engineer
- Combustion Engineer
- Commissioning Engineer
- Computer Aided Engineering Engineer (CAE Engineer)
- Cooling and Heating Systems Design Engineer
- Cryogenics Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Design Maintenance Engineer
- Diesel Engineer
- Diesel Retrofit Designer
- Distribution Engineer
- Dust Control Engineer
- Electro-Mechanical Engineer
- Engine Designer
- Equipment Engineer
- Erecting Engineer
- Facilities Engineer
- Facilities Mechanical Design Engineer
- Failure Analysis Technician
- Field Service Engineer
- Geothermal Power Generation Mechanical Engineer
- Heating and Cooling Systems Engineer
- Heating Engineer
- HVAC Engineer (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning Engineer)
- HVAC Engineer (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Engineer)
- HVAC Sensor and Digital Control Designer (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Sensor and Digital Control Designer)
- Hydraulic Engineer
- Hydroelectric Plant Mechanical Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Industrial Green Systems Designer
- Industrial Retrofit Designer
- Installation Engineer
- Internal Combustion Engineer
- Machine Design Engineer
- Machine Tool Designer
- Machining Engineer
- Manufacturing Applications Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Mechanical Design Engineer
- Mechanical Design Facilities or Products Engineer
- Mechanical Development Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer HVAC Design
- Mechanical Equipment Test Engineer
- Mechanical Research Engineer
- Mechanical Systems Engineer
- Motorcycle Designer
- Plant Engineer
- Plant Equipment Engineer
- Powertrain CAE Engineer (Powertrain Computer Aided Engineering Engineer)
- Process Engineer
- Product Engineer
- Production Specialist
- Products Mechanical Design Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Refrigeration Engineer
- Roller Coaster Designer
- Roller Coaster Engineer
- Servomechanism Designer
- Sheet Metal Engineer
- Solar Energy Systems Designer
- Solar Engineer
- Stress Analyst
- Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE)
- Systems Engineer
- Test Engineer
- Test Inspection Engineer
- Textile Engineer
- Tool and Die Engineer
- Tool Design Engineer
- Tool Designer
- Tool Designer Apprentice
- Tool Engineer
- Tooling Engineer
- Utilization Engineer
- Ventilating Engineer
- Ventilating Expert
- Weapons Designer
- Weapons Engineer
- Wind Turbine Mechanical Engineer
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Mechanical Engineers
Related Schools
- George Mason University
- Liberty University
- Old Dominion University
- University of Virginia-Main Campus
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Virginia Military Institute
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)