Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers produce specifications for, design, develop, manufacture and install new or modified mechanical components or systems.

Mechanical engineers need to be technically minded, able to demonstrate numerical and scientific ability and have problem-solving skills.

What does a mechanical engineer do?

Mechanical engineers can work on components and equipment for many industries including healthcare, power, transport and water.

Job responsibilities vary greatly according to the size and type of employer. However, duties typically include:

• assessing project requirements
• measuring the performance of mechanical components, devices and engines
• agreeing budgets, timescales and specifications with clients and managers
• maintaining and modifying equipment to ensure that it is safe, reliable and efficient
• using computer-aided design/modelling software
• liaising with suppliers
• undertaking relevant research
• producing and implementing designs and test procedures
• testing, evaluating, modifying and re-testing products
• writing reports and documentation
• providing technical advice
• analysing and interpreting data