A career in mechanical engineering is competitive and rewarding. Whether you are just graduating or further along your career path, specialization options are vast. Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and most diverse of all the engineering fields, and now includes subdivisions of various disciplines.
So what are the best jobs for a mechanical engineer? Let’s break down some places to start answering that question.
Know Your Options
One of the benefits of mechanical engineering is how well it can translate into other positions. Of course, jobs labeled as “mechanical engineer” are always a good place to start, but there are other options available as well. Some careers that mechanical engineers can pursue include:
- Aerospace engineer.
- Automotive engineer.
- Biomedical engineer.
- Construction engineer.
- 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.
Of the above, which job is “the best” is subjective. Which choice is right for you depends on your goals, interests and skills.
There are a few ways to uncover the best job for you.
How to Choose a Mechanical Engineering Job
Gain Some Experience
One way to know what interests you is by trying it hands-on.
Most four year degrees require completion of a placement or at least provide some internship opportunities while you study. Internships are usually an entry-level type of position that is a few months in duration, and often unpaid. A placement is longer, about a year of paid or unpaid work. However, a placement is usually part or requirement of a degree path.
If you did not complete either of these during your schooling, both are an excellent way to build experience to add to your resume.
Earn Mechanical Engineering Credentials
There are a few requirements for mechanical engineers as well as some nice-to-have certifications and associations. Depending on where you want to work, you will need a specialized license for your area. Registration with associated organizations is not always an explicit requirement but may give you a leg up as you are building your experience. Consider earning some additional certifications in specific skills to round out your resume as well.
Sketch Out Your Career Path
What specialty do you want to follow? To outline your professional career, ask yourself the following questions:
- What type of organization do you want to work for?
- Is relocation an option?
- What are your skills?
- What are your interest?
Determining what is most important to you will help narrow your focus in a broad field. For example, if salary is your primary driver mechanical engineers in technology industry make almost twice that of those in education. However, following salary requirements might mean relocation.
➔ Read Now: How to Apply for Mechanical Engineering Positions
Find The Right Position with an Engineering Recruiter
Now you know where and in what general fields you want to focus, finding the right position is key.
Strom Minnesota is a engineering recruiter that are experts at matching your skills and interests with the right organization. Relying on and utilizing the support of an experienced recruiter can get you onto your path faster. Using a specialized recruiter saves time and reduces stress that would have been incurred during a lengthy job search.
If you’re not sure which job is the best for you, we’ll sit down with you to discuss your job possibilities and help find you a position that matches your interest.
Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.
