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Mechanical engineers undertake research, design and development, direct the manufacture and manage the operation and maintenance of engines, machines, vehicle and ships’ structures, building services and other mechanical items.

Main tasks

  • Organises and establishes control systems to monitor operational efficiency and performance of materials and systems.
  • Ensures that equipment, operation and maintenance comply with design specifications and safety standards.
  • Designs and develops mechanical equipment, such as steam, internal combustion and other non-electrical motors for railway locomotives, road vehicles and other machinery.
  • Determines materials, equipment, piping, capacities, layout of plant or system and specification for manufacture.
  • Undertakes research and advises on energy use, materials handling, thermodynamic processes, fluid mechanics, vehicles and environmental controls.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£68,166.49

Average earnings

£43,795.85

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Science

Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Monitoring

Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

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.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Administration and Management

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 0%
Level 1 1%
Level 2 7%
Level 3 17%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 14%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 41%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 15%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 4%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.