Making the change to become a mechanical engineer in 2020 will not only benefit you, but you will be embarking on a career that benefits the planet too.

Around 90% of engineers are reported to have high levels of job satisfaction meaning that not only is it a challenging career that will keep you engaged, it is a rewarding and satisfying career choice too.

On a daily basis a mechanical engineer will usually liaise with other engineers and machine operators to implement procedures, test and resolve malfunctions with equipment, and provide information and training to allow others to perform their roles.

Mechanical engineers are problem solvers and any company that relies on machinery and equipment needs them.

While the title of this post is “an average day in the life of a mechanical engineer”, it is fair to say that there is no “average day”.

In any given day a mechanical engineer’s duties may include:

  • Research and development of products
  • Researching and implementing procedures to improve production process
  • Designing and implementing equipment modifications
  • Managing people
  • Training operators
  • Managing projects
  • Producing detailed specifications
  • Plan and design production processes
  • Working with business owners and directors to improve productivity.

A mechanical engineer is far from a “repair man”. An engineer is a highly skilled individual with a tool kit to not only keep a business running, but improve the productivity, reduce spending and keep a company evolving.

Therefore, a mechanical engineer is an extremely versatile member of a team, reacting to situations, varying their skillset according to challenge, and adapting to environments. Although sometimes specialised in specific areas, mechanical engineers and their skillset are often very versatile and applicable across multipledisciplines.

To become a mechanical engineer, you will need to have gained a degree. There are multiple specialist routes that you can take in engineering:

  • Computer-aided Engineering
  • Engineering Science
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Nuclear Engineering
  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Agricultural Engineering

Although some employers may require you to hold a specialist degree, most engineering degrees will provide you with the skills to take on the job training to specialise in a specific role. Prior to undertaking a degree, apprenticeships offer similar on the job experience, providing an understanding of the environment and demands of the role.

All engineering roles will require you to be able to show these skills:

  • A high level of understanding and technical knowledge and the ability to apply these skills to solve problems
  • Good communication skills
  • Good written communication
  • The ability to work well within a team environment
  • Self-motivation
  • IT skills
  • Creative flare
  • The ability to work under pressure
  • Organisational skills
  • Good time management
  • Planning skills.

While work experience is invaluable most workplaces will have their own way of conducting their business. Having a background working with machinery and software that the company uses is a massive bonus, but joining a new company you will still need to learn how they use it and gain experience over time.

One of the best traits in a mechanical engineer’s arsenal is the drive to learn. Even the best engineers who have 10 years’ experience in a company will constantly be looking for ways to improve their skills and learn new ways of operating.

As a mechanical engineer you could work within almost any sector.

Some sectors that have a high demand for mechanical engineers are:

  • Aerospace
  • Automotive industry
  • Military and defence
  • Nuclear energy
  • Government agencies
  • Manufacturing industry
  • Medical and pharmaceutical industry
  • Oil and gas industry
  • Public sector
  • Sports engineering

It is clear from this post that there is no such thing as an “average day in the life of an engineer” because engineers are not “average”. Engineers push business and industry forward and keep it running. That is why becoming a mechanical engineer is such a fulfilling and varied role.

If you are looking to take the step into a new career, then why not talk to BMR Solutions today?

We are specialist recruitment consultants in the engineering and technical area in the South West.  Our team are trusted to provide individuals into the top engineering roles around the South West of England.

Talk to BMR Solutions today and start the next step in your career.