In the field of engineering, mechanical engineers are responsible for planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other equipment and overseeing the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment. This article seeks to provide an overview of the mechanical engineering industry and types of mechanical engineering jobs for undergraduates and graduate students.
Mechanical Engineering
In the broadest sense, mechanical engineering is when one studies an object or system in motion. As you can imagine, this lends to mechanical engineering industry being broad in scope, encompassing a variety of specific industries. These industries include automotive, aerospace, biotechnology, computers, electronics, energy conversion, robotics, and manufacturing. Given the many industries to choose from, you might opt for a mechanical engineering specialization, that is, a specific niche of mechanical engineering to focus on within your degree.
Some examples of mechanical engineering specializations that you can pursue (certificates and/or courses) at Duke are materials science and engineering, robotics and automation, and aerospace engineering.
Mechanical Engineering Background & Responsibilities
Mechanical engineers typically pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology which includes coursework in mathematics, life and physical sciences, and engineering and design. If they wish to pursue advanced or managerial positions, they might consider an advanced degree in engineering or business administration.
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports
- Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, or maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems or processes to meet requirements
- Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information
- Analyze problems to see how mechanical device or process might help solve problem
- Estimate time and cost to complete projects
General Types of Mechanical Engineering Jobs
Process engineer
Optimize biological and chemical processes to improve the way a company produces a product. Manage overall operation of the manufacturing facility, factory, or plant, transforming raw materials into a finished product.
Design engineer
Create and develop innovative solutions for various products, systems, or processes. Conceptualize designs, create models using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and construct and test prototypes. Use creativity and technical expertise to transform concepts into tangible products or systems.
Project engineer
Manage team during entire lifecycle of technical or engineering project. Ensure the design, consistency, and functionality of a project throughout its execution.
Sales engineer
Specialize in furthering sales of technical and industrial products. Involved in all aspects of the sales process to identify areas of improvement. Typically work in business-to-business environments where implement strategies to influence other businesses to purchase their products.
Test engineer
Test system or product to guarantee it meets business needs and properly functions. Assess performance, service, regression, component, and function of system or product, working closely with the development team.
Here is a list of the top job titles and industries (listed in no particular order) of Duke recent graduates from 2021-2023.
Top Job Titles
- Analyst (various roles)
- Associate Engineer (various roles)
- Consultant (various roles)
- Engineer (various roles)
- Mechanical Engineer (various roles)
Top Industries
- Engineering, Architecture, & Design
- Business & Management Consulting
- Computers, IT, Technology
- Finance
- Construction, Manufacturing, Utilities
To elevate your job search, you can utilize Handshake to research and explore jobs and employers in the mechanical engineering field. You can access Handshake by using your Duke credentials. Use key word searches in the “Jobs” and “Employers” tabs to identify jobs and companies of interest. To ensure variability in your search results, change the key words and filters you use.
This article references information that can be found on indeed.com, mems.duke.edu, me.columbia.edu, onetonline.org, and bls.gov.
