Mechanical Engineer

Overview

Who is Mechanical Engineer?

Mechanical engineers belong to one of the oldest and most diverse branches of engineering that focuses on designing and developing various mechanical systems and devices. They engineer mechanical devices right from small components such as batteries, sensors, switches to large equipment, tools, engines, and machines such as automobiles, satellites, electric power plants. They are involved in the designing, developing, building, manufacturing as well as installation, testing, and maintenance of these devices.

Mechanical engineers combine the knowledge of mathematics and physics in conjunction with materials science to develop products and processes that cater to a range of human needs. They contribute to some of the major industries that rely on mechanical systems such as automation, automotive, aerospace, computer technology, and electronics and communication which can solve many practical problems today. With each project, their goal is to design and develop mechanical devices that are functional, efficient, safe and economically feasible.

Typical day at work

What does Mechanical Engineer do?

A mechanical engineer, often known as a mechanical designer, is an engineer who works in the manufacturing, automotive, biotechnology, automation, aerospace, computer, and electronics sectors. They design, build and examine machinery and components utilised in a variety of institutions.

• Develop outline designs and assess theoretical designs to test for feasibility
• Perform analysis to specify project requirements
• Create virtual simulations of the prototype design
• Build physical device prototypes and conduct operational testing for the same
• Make modifications to the equipment design to fix malfunctions
• Recommend methods to optimize the production processes
• Evaluate the operation, performance, and safety of the equipment, components, systems
• Utilize cost-effective materials and processes that adhere to the project’s budget
• Supervise manufacturing process for the device
• Maintain proper documentation of the production
• Oversee the work of the mechanical engineering staff

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Mechanical Engineer?

A mechanical engineer needs to possess an in-depth knowledge of the relevant technical and scientific principles along with excellent mathematical skills to conceptualize and develop practical mechanical devices. They need to be highly analytical and detail-oriented with the necessary manual dexterity and physical stamina required for the job. They should have good leadership skills along with the ability to work as a part of a diverse team. Their project management skills are crucial in conjunction with excellent time management and organization skills to deliver outputs in adherence to deadlines.

Additionally, they should be well-versed with using relevant technologies and software such as computer-aided design (CAD), Matlab/LabView programs, and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). A mechanical engineer needs to be equipped with excellent communication skills in order to convey complex technical information to non-technical audiences and liaise effectively with the management and other professionals in their team. They should be adept at creative problem-solving and critical thinking to identify problems and develop innovation solutions.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?