5 answers
Hannah
Student
Marina, California
2
Questions
Updated
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What does a job as a mechanical engineer look like and what tasks would you do?
I'm curious to know what everyday life for an engineer would look like. Does working as an engineer mean a more flexible day-to-day life?
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5 answers
Fahad Elahi Khan
Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate
44
Answers
Chittagong, Chittagong Division, Bangladesh
Updated
Fahad Elahi’s Answer
A typical day as a mechanical engineer varies by role, but it often starts around 8 am with checking emails and planning tasks. You might spend time on design work using software like SolidWorks for 3D models, doing calculations for stress analysis, or testing prototypes in a lab. Afternoons could involve meetings with teams to discuss project progress, troubleshooting issues on the production floor, or researching new materials. Some roles offer flexibility, like remote work for design tasks or adjustable hours, especially in consulting, but manufacturing jobs might be more structured with site visits. Overall, it's a mix of desk work and hands on, with room for variety depending on the company.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
A mechanical engineer designs, analyzes, and improves systems such as machines, engines, robotics, and vehicles. The work involves solving problems through technical analysis using tools like SolidWorks, CATIA, MATLAB, or ANSYS. Tasks may include creating designs, running simulations, building prototypes, troubleshooting issues, and performing maintenance on vehicles and machinery to ensure engines, transmissions, and mechanical systems operate efficiently and reliably. Engineers also handle responsibilities like documenting designs, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance, planning maintenance, coordinating with suppliers, and addressing unexpected operational issues. Staying updated on emerging technologies, being curious, and mentoring junior engineers are important parts of the role. A typical day may involve computer-based design, lab testing, hands-on work, or team meetings. Some roles offer flexible hours, especially in R&D, design, or automotive engineering, while manufacturing, field, or maintenance positions usually follow fixed schedules. Overall, mechanical engineering blends innovation, analytical thinking, and practical skills to develop and maintain systems that are safe, reliable, and efficient.
Brian Swain
Mechanical Engineer
62
Answers
Modesto, California
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hi Hannah,
It entirely depends on the specific job/company/industry. Sometimes I work on large long term projects with no real due date. Sometimes I'm helping run root cause analysis. Sometimes I sit around all day with nothing to do but busy work. Sometimes I work overtime designing work around for problems if customers are down. Sometime I sit in meeting all morning.
However it also really depends on how far you have to commute. The longer you spend in the car or on transit the longer your effective working hours are and the less work life balance you have. But this is the same with any career. The only role I've encounter that really puts a strain is field service or customer support, you may have to travel alot and been on call often. I hope this makes sense, and I wish you the best of luck.
It entirely depends on the specific job/company/industry. Sometimes I work on large long term projects with no real due date. Sometimes I'm helping run root cause analysis. Sometimes I sit around all day with nothing to do but busy work. Sometimes I work overtime designing work around for problems if customers are down. Sometime I sit in meeting all morning.
However it also really depends on how far you have to commute. The longer you spend in the car or on transit the longer your effective working hours are and the less work life balance you have. But this is the same with any career. The only role I've encounter that really puts a strain is field service or customer support, you may have to travel alot and been on call often. I hope this makes sense, and I wish you the best of luck.
Lorenzo Gholston
Healthcare Payer
21
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Lorenzo’s Answer
Hannah,
Your question is excellent! Engineering is a vast field with many possibilities. It can be a great starting point for your future. Some people stay in engineering, while others use their skills to move into different areas.
For instance, I have a mechanical engineering degree. I began in manufacturing and built a solid career. Later, I used my engineering skills to work in healthcare, focusing on business tasks with my analytical and statistical strengths.
Think about where you want to go with engineering. You can stay in the field or use it to explore other areas.
I hope this helps, and good luck!
Your question is excellent! Engineering is a vast field with many possibilities. It can be a great starting point for your future. Some people stay in engineering, while others use their skills to move into different areas.
For instance, I have a mechanical engineering degree. I began in manufacturing and built a solid career. Later, I used my engineering skills to work in healthcare, focusing on business tasks with my analytical and statistical strengths.
Think about where you want to go with engineering. You can stay in the field or use it to explore other areas.
I hope this helps, and good luck!
Surjeet Gahlaut
Engg
6
Answers
Delhi, DL
Updated
Surjeet’s Answer
In the early years, mechanical engineers often work hard and get their hands and clothes dirty. However, as they gain experience, their job becomes easier. They spend more time training younger engineers and focusing on planning and strategies.