Important Job Skills for Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineers design, build, and test mechanical devices such as tools, engines, and machines. Considered the broadest engineering discipline, mechanical engineers work in engineering services, research facilities, manufacturing industries, and the federal government.

A mechanical engineer should have particular hard skills, including a solid understanding of industry standards and excellent computer skills, because much time is spent designing, simulating, and testing. In addition, mechanical engineers should have soft skills, such as strong analytical thinking and communication capabilities.

Types of Mechanical Engineering Skills

Problem Solving

Mechanical engineers need to be strong analytical thinkers who are capable of solving problems raised by clients or their employer.

Analytical thinking
Analyze test results and adjust design if needed
Develop and test prototypes
Design mechanical device projects
Detail-oriented
Develop design calculations
Ensure designs meet legal guidelines and safety requirements
Identify potential design improvements
Knowledgeable in the machining and fabrication process
Perform equipment and system calculations
Product validation experience
Provide cost estimates for materials, equipment, and/or labor
Research materials for future design opportunities and usage
Sound knowledge of engineering fundamentals
Test building materials
Troubleshoot equipment to solve problems
Work to improve and maintain existing products

Creativity

Mechanical engineering entails developing and designing products, which range from batteries to electric generators to medical devices. Inventing products involves a great deal of creativity, as does figuring out how to bring projects home within challenging timeframes.

Work in 3D design (computer-aided design, or “CAD”)
Devise alternative mechanical structures
Develop new tools and systems to enhance production
Complete assigned tasks within time and budget restraints
Convert basic design information and requirements into working drawings
Create blueprints using CAD (computer-aided design)
Develop a scope and timeline for each project
Draft standards and geometric, dimension, & tolerancing (GD&T) specifications
Prepare designs and estimates

Communication and Leadership

Often, mechanical engineers develop a product for a client. They may have to explain complex machines or devices to people who are not familiar with mechanical engineering. They have to be able to convey their ideas clearly and effectively, and this takes strong communication skills. They also frequently leverage their communication talents to take the lead on mechanical design and manufacturing projects.

Clearly explain design ideas
Comfortable writing technical reports
Make regular site visits
Manage and monitor each stage of a project
Oversee the project manufacturing process
Prepare conclusions and analysis reports
Read and interpret drawings and specifications
Recommend modifications for design improvements and simplification
Effectively present proposals, status reports, and final project reports to groups
Use notes, sketches, and verbal instructions to complete project designs
Write and maintain operating procedures and standards

Teamwork

Mechanical engineering involves a lot of teamwork.

They might work with people who are not mechanical engineers, such as computer scientists or architects. As such, they need to be able to work with a diverse team of people to solve problems. Many engineers will need the leadership skills necessary to manage or lead groups.

Assemble project deliverables
Assist with field and manufacturing problems
Assist with shipping of equipment prior to deployment
Proactive and willing to take on new challenges
Work effectively under pressure
Mentor junior staff
Resolve conflicts amongst team members
Motivate team members

Math and Computer Skills

Mechanical engineers need to be comfortable using math to solve problems. The math skills required in mechanical engineering include calculus and statistics. They must be adept at applying these skills to analyze problems and design solutions.

AutoCAD
Automated model programming
CAD (computer-aided design)
Engineering product data management software (EPDM)
Microsoft office suite experience
Pro-E CREO CAD software
Understand diagrams, drafts, flowcharts, and other information and documentation
Use software to design at the level of industry and government standards
Geometry
Trigonometry
Calculus
Statistics