Mechanical engineers design, create, build, and assess mechanical and thermal sensors and devices. As such, mechanical engineers serve key roles in a wide range of work environments, including research and development facilities and manufacturing plants.
Expect the demand for mechanical engineers to increase in the years to come. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected 4% growth in the number of mechanical engineer jobs nationwide between 2018 and 2028. Furthermore, BLS expects the number of mechanical engineers to increase by 12,800 from 2018 to 2028.
If you want to pursue a career in mechanical engineering, it is crucial to understand the education, training, and expertise required. With a clear understanding of the career path of a mechanical engineer, you can take the necessary steps to make your career dreams come true.
Here are the steps you’ll need to take to become a mechanical engineer:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a mechanical engineer, you first have to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Degree programs are available at colleges and universities across the United States. Or, you can earn your bachelor’s degree online.
A typical degree program includes courses in math, life and physical sciences, and engineering and design. It tends to emphasize practical application of mechanical engineering principles over theory. In addition, a program may involve an internship or co-op.
2. Land an Entry-Level Job
Once you earn your bachelor’s degree, you can pursue an entry-level job. Mechanical engineering jobs are available around the world, and they enable you to apply what you learned as part of your degree program every day.
The demand for mechanical engineers is growing in industries like aerospace and machinery manufacturing. If you find a mechanical engineering role that suits your skillset, you should pursue it. And if you land this role, you can use it as a stepping stone toward a successful career.
3. Enhance Your Skill Set
You may have secured a job as a mechanical engineer, but you should still continue to learn. If you advance your skillset, you can differentiate yourself from other mechanical engineers, as well as increase your earning potential and speed up your career growth.
In some instances, it may be beneficial to pursue a professional engineering license, which is ideal if you want to earn a management position or another leadership role. Comparatively, if you want to teach others how to succeed as mechanical engineers, you may want to return to school to earn your Ph.D.
4. Find Your Dream Job
You now have the mechanical engineering skills and experience to thrive. Thus, you can find your dream job and do everything possible to land it.
After you secure your dream job in mechanical engineering, work hard every day. Because, if you do your best, you can make meaningful contributions at work and enjoy a long, rewarding career.
Take the Next Step in Your Mechanical Engineering Career by Partnering with Techneeds
At Techneeds, we offer mechanical engineering job search tips, recommendations, and insights to help you find your dream role. To learn more, please call us today at 800-346-8810.