4 answers
Juwairiyah
Student
Bridgeport, Connecticut
2
Questions
Asked
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What kind of jobs are under mechanical engineering?
what kind of things are done in mechanical engineering
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4 answers
Katherine L
45
Answers
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hello! Mechanical engineering offers a wide range of career possibilities. As a mechanical engineer, you have the opportunity to design and construct everything from simple tools to complex machines, and even spacecraft. Some engineers in this field focus on enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings, while others dedicate their skills to the development of advanced medical equipment or innovative materials.
The automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors also offer numerous opportunities for mechanical engineers. As problem solvers, mechanical engineers apply their knowledge of math and science to devise practical solutions to real-world problems.
Whether your passion lies in robotics, sustainability, or enhancing everyday products, pursuing a career in mechanical engineering can pave the way to a thrilling and meaningful future. Some typical job roles and career trajectories in this field include: Mechanical Design Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Thermal and HVAC Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Bio-mechanical Engineer, and Research and Development (R&D) Engineer, among others.
The automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors also offer numerous opportunities for mechanical engineers. As problem solvers, mechanical engineers apply their knowledge of math and science to devise practical solutions to real-world problems.
Whether your passion lies in robotics, sustainability, or enhancing everyday products, pursuing a career in mechanical engineering can pave the way to a thrilling and meaningful future. Some typical job roles and career trajectories in this field include: Mechanical Design Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Thermal and HVAC Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Bio-mechanical Engineer, and Research and Development (R&D) Engineer, among others.
David C Byram
Mechanical Design Engineering / Educator
36
Answers
Palm Coast, Florida
Updated
David C’s Answer
Hello Juwairiyah,
Here is more detail on the various fields. It is the result of your question to ChatGPT.
Mechanical engineering is a diverse field that covers a wide range of sub-disciplines and specialties. Here are some of the key fields within mechanical engineering:
1. Thermodynamics: This field deals with the study of energy and heat transfer. Engineers in this area design and analyze systems such as engines, power plants, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.
2. Fluid Mechanics: Fluid mechanics involves the study of fluids (liquids and gases) and their behavior. Mechanical engineers specializing in this field work on projects related to fluid flow, turbulence, and aerodynamics, including the design of aircraft and vehicles.
3. Mechanics of Materials: This field focuses on understanding how materials behave under different loads and stresses. Engineers in this area work on designing and analyzing structures and components to ensure they can withstand various forces.
4. Mechatronics: Mechatronics is the integration of mechanical engineering with electronics and computer control. Engineers in this field develop smart systems, such as robotics, automation, and control systems.
5. Manufacturing and Production Engineering: This field involves the study of manufacturing processes, production systems, and quality control. Engineers in this area work on improving manufacturing efficiency and product quality.
6. Automotive Engineering: Automotive engineers design and develop vehicles and their components, including engines, transmissions, chassis, and safety systems.
7. Aerospace Engineering: Aerospace engineers work on the design and development of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. This field includes aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials specific to aerospace applications.
8. Energy Engineering: Mechanical engineers specializing in energy engineering work on sustainable energy solutions, such as renewable energy systems, energy-efficient technologies, and energy storage.
9. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): HVAC engineers design systems for controlling indoor environments, including heating, cooling, and air quality in buildings.
10. Biomechanics: This field applies mechanical engineering principles to the human body. Biomechanical engineers work on medical devices, prosthetics, and the study of human motion and injury prevention.
11. Nanotechnology: Nanomechanical engineers work with extremely small-scale systems and materials, often at the nanometer level. They design and develop nanoscale devices and systems with various applications.
12. Acoustical Engineering: Acoustical engineers focus on sound and vibration control, designing systems to reduce noise in various applications, from automotive interiors to architectural spaces.
13. Materials Science and Engineering: While not exclusive to mechanical engineering, materials science plays a critical role. Engineers in this field research and develop new materials with improved properties for various applications.
14. Environmental Engineering: Environmental engineers within the mechanical engineering domain work on projects related to pollution control, waste management, and sustainable engineering practices.
15. Structural Engineering: While often considered a separate discipline, some mechanical engineers specialize in structural analysis and design, particularly in the context of buildings and infrastructure.
These fields often overlap, and mechanical engineers may work on projects that involve aspects from multiple areas. The choice of specialization depends on individual interests and career goals. Additionally, advancements in technology and interdisciplinary approaches continue to expand the scope of mechanical engineering.
Designer Dave
Here is more detail on the various fields. It is the result of your question to ChatGPT.
Mechanical engineering is a diverse field that covers a wide range of sub-disciplines and specialties. Here are some of the key fields within mechanical engineering:
1. Thermodynamics: This field deals with the study of energy and heat transfer. Engineers in this area design and analyze systems such as engines, power plants, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.
2. Fluid Mechanics: Fluid mechanics involves the study of fluids (liquids and gases) and their behavior. Mechanical engineers specializing in this field work on projects related to fluid flow, turbulence, and aerodynamics, including the design of aircraft and vehicles.
3. Mechanics of Materials: This field focuses on understanding how materials behave under different loads and stresses. Engineers in this area work on designing and analyzing structures and components to ensure they can withstand various forces.
4. Mechatronics: Mechatronics is the integration of mechanical engineering with electronics and computer control. Engineers in this field develop smart systems, such as robotics, automation, and control systems.
5. Manufacturing and Production Engineering: This field involves the study of manufacturing processes, production systems, and quality control. Engineers in this area work on improving manufacturing efficiency and product quality.
6. Automotive Engineering: Automotive engineers design and develop vehicles and their components, including engines, transmissions, chassis, and safety systems.
7. Aerospace Engineering: Aerospace engineers work on the design and development of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. This field includes aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials specific to aerospace applications.
8. Energy Engineering: Mechanical engineers specializing in energy engineering work on sustainable energy solutions, such as renewable energy systems, energy-efficient technologies, and energy storage.
9. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): HVAC engineers design systems for controlling indoor environments, including heating, cooling, and air quality in buildings.
10. Biomechanics: This field applies mechanical engineering principles to the human body. Biomechanical engineers work on medical devices, prosthetics, and the study of human motion and injury prevention.
11. Nanotechnology: Nanomechanical engineers work with extremely small-scale systems and materials, often at the nanometer level. They design and develop nanoscale devices and systems with various applications.
12. Acoustical Engineering: Acoustical engineers focus on sound and vibration control, designing systems to reduce noise in various applications, from automotive interiors to architectural spaces.
13. Materials Science and Engineering: While not exclusive to mechanical engineering, materials science plays a critical role. Engineers in this field research and develop new materials with improved properties for various applications.
14. Environmental Engineering: Environmental engineers within the mechanical engineering domain work on projects related to pollution control, waste management, and sustainable engineering practices.
15. Structural Engineering: While often considered a separate discipline, some mechanical engineers specialize in structural analysis and design, particularly in the context of buildings and infrastructure.
These fields often overlap, and mechanical engineers may work on projects that involve aspects from multiple areas. The choice of specialization depends on individual interests and career goals. Additionally, advancements in technology and interdisciplinary approaches continue to expand the scope of mechanical engineering.
Designer Dave
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Mechanical engineering is a diverse field that offers a wide range of job opportunities and involves various tasks. Here are some common jobs and tasks associated with mechanical engineering:
**Jobs in Mechanical Engineering:**
1. **Mechanical Engineer:** This is the most common role. Mechanical engineers design, analyze, and develop mechanical systems and products. They work in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.
2. **Aerospace Engineer:** Aerospace engineers specialize in designing aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. They focus on aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials used in aerospace applications.
3. **Automotive Engineer:** Automotive engineers work on the design, development, and testing of vehicles and their components. They aim to improve fuel efficiency, safety, and overall performance.
4. **Energy Engineer:** Energy engineers focus on the generation, distribution, and utilization of energy. They work on renewable energy projects, power plants, and energy-efficient systems.
5. **Manufacturing Engineer:** Manufacturing engineers optimize production processes, ensuring products are made efficiently and cost-effectively. They often work in factories and manufacturing facilities.
6. **Robotics Engineer:** Robotics engineers design and build robotic systems for various applications, including manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration.
7. **HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Engineer:** HVAC engineers design systems to control indoor environments, ensuring comfort and air quality in buildings.
8. **Mechatronics Engineer:** Mechatronics engineers combine mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to create smart and automated systems, such as robotics and automation machinery.
**Tasks in Mechanical Engineering:**
1. **Design and Modeling:** Mechanical engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans and 3D models of products and systems.
2. **Analysis and Simulation:** They perform simulations and analyze designs to ensure they meet safety, performance, and efficiency standards.
3. **Prototyping:** Engineers build prototypes to test and refine their designs before full-scale production.
4. **Materials Selection:** Choosing the right materials for a project is crucial to ensure durability, strength, and functionality.
5. **Testing and Validation:** Engineers conduct experiments and tests to verify the performance and safety of mechanical systems and products.
6. **Maintenance and Troubleshooting:** Mechanical engineers often work on the maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment, ensuring they operate efficiently.
7. **Project Management:** Many engineers are involved in project management, overseeing budgets, timelines, and teams to complete projects successfully.
8. **Research and Development:** Some mechanical engineers work on cutting-edge research and development projects to create innovative products and technologies.
9. **Environmental Impact Assessment:** Sustainability is increasingly important in engineering. Engineers assess the environmental impact of their designs and seek ways to reduce it.
10. **Collaboration:** Mechanical engineers collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, including electrical engineers, software developers, and industrial designers.
Mechanical engineering offers a wide array of career opportunities, allowing professionals to work on projects that align with their interests and expertise. Whether it's designing high-performance vehicles, improving energy efficiency, or creating cutting-edge robotics, mechanical engineering provides the foundation for innovation in various industries.
**Jobs in Mechanical Engineering:**
1. **Mechanical Engineer:** This is the most common role. Mechanical engineers design, analyze, and develop mechanical systems and products. They work in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.
2. **Aerospace Engineer:** Aerospace engineers specialize in designing aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. They focus on aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials used in aerospace applications.
3. **Automotive Engineer:** Automotive engineers work on the design, development, and testing of vehicles and their components. They aim to improve fuel efficiency, safety, and overall performance.
4. **Energy Engineer:** Energy engineers focus on the generation, distribution, and utilization of energy. They work on renewable energy projects, power plants, and energy-efficient systems.
5. **Manufacturing Engineer:** Manufacturing engineers optimize production processes, ensuring products are made efficiently and cost-effectively. They often work in factories and manufacturing facilities.
6. **Robotics Engineer:** Robotics engineers design and build robotic systems for various applications, including manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration.
7. **HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Engineer:** HVAC engineers design systems to control indoor environments, ensuring comfort and air quality in buildings.
8. **Mechatronics Engineer:** Mechatronics engineers combine mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to create smart and automated systems, such as robotics and automation machinery.
**Tasks in Mechanical Engineering:**
1. **Design and Modeling:** Mechanical engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans and 3D models of products and systems.
2. **Analysis and Simulation:** They perform simulations and analyze designs to ensure they meet safety, performance, and efficiency standards.
3. **Prototyping:** Engineers build prototypes to test and refine their designs before full-scale production.
4. **Materials Selection:** Choosing the right materials for a project is crucial to ensure durability, strength, and functionality.
5. **Testing and Validation:** Engineers conduct experiments and tests to verify the performance and safety of mechanical systems and products.
6. **Maintenance and Troubleshooting:** Mechanical engineers often work on the maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment, ensuring they operate efficiently.
7. **Project Management:** Many engineers are involved in project management, overseeing budgets, timelines, and teams to complete projects successfully.
8. **Research and Development:** Some mechanical engineers work on cutting-edge research and development projects to create innovative products and technologies.
9. **Environmental Impact Assessment:** Sustainability is increasingly important in engineering. Engineers assess the environmental impact of their designs and seek ways to reduce it.
10. **Collaboration:** Mechanical engineers collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, including electrical engineers, software developers, and industrial designers.
Mechanical engineering offers a wide array of career opportunities, allowing professionals to work on projects that align with their interests and expertise. Whether it's designing high-performance vehicles, improving energy efficiency, or creating cutting-edge robotics, mechanical engineering provides the foundation for innovation in various industries.
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
240
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Juwairiyah:
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some top careers in Mechanical Engineering:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Business Executive
- Construction Engineer
- Entrepreneur
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Management Consultant
- Mechanical Engineer
- Patent Lawyer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Project Manager
- Petroleum Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Technology Specialist
- Thermal Engineer
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/articles/what-you-can-do-with-a-mechanical-engineering-degree
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Mechanical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Mechanical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Mechanical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Mechanical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-mechanical
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some top careers in Mechanical Engineering:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Business Executive
- Construction Engineer
- Entrepreneur
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Management Consultant
- Mechanical Engineer
- Patent Lawyer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Project Manager
- Petroleum Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Technology Specialist
- Thermal Engineer
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/articles/what-you-can-do-with-a-mechanical-engineering-degree
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Mechanical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Mechanical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Mechanical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Mechanical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-mechanical
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!