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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 strong understanding of industry standards, and comfort working with computers, because much time is spent designing, simulating, and testing. In addition, mechanical engineers should have soft skills, such as strong analytical thinking and communication skills. 

 

Here's a list of mechanical engineer skills, including a detailed list of the 5 most important mechanical engineering skills, as well as a longer list of even more related skills.

 

 

 

Top 5 Mechanical Engineer Skills

 

Problem Solving

A big part of a mechanical engineer’s job is solving problems using mechanical or thermal devices. Mechanical engineers need to be strong analytical thinkers who are capable of solving problems brought to them by clients or employers.

 

Creativity

Mechanical engineering involves developing and designing products, which range from batteries to electric generators to medical devices. Inventing products involves a lot of creativity.

 

Communication Skills

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 explain their ideas clearly and effectively, and this takes strong communication skills.

 

Teamwork

Mechanical engineering involves lots of teamwork. Engineers often work in groups to invent technologies and solve problems. They might work with people who are not mechanical engineers, such as computer scientists or architects. They, therefore, need to be able to work with a diverse team of people to solve problems.

 

Math Skills

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

 

 

 

Mechanical Engineer Skills

 

A - G

3D (Computer Aided Design) CAD

Analytical Thinking

Assemble Project Deliverables

Assist With Field and Manufacturing Problems

Assist With Shipping of Equipment Prior to Deployment

Analyze Test Results and Adjust Design if Needed

AutoCAD

Automated Model Programming 

Complete Assigned Tasks Within Time and Cost Restraints

Convert Basic Design Information and Requirements Into Working Drawings

Develop and Test Prototypes

Clearly Explain Design Ideas

CAD (Computer Aided Design)

Comfortable Writing Technical Reports

Communication

Computer Skills

Create Blueprints Using CAD (Computer Aided Design)

Creativity

Design Mechanical Device Projects

Detail Oriented

Develop Design Calculations

Develop Project Scope and Timeline

Drafting Standards and Geometric, Dimension, & Tolerancing (GD&T)

Engineering Product Data Management Software (EPDM) 

Ensure Designs Meet Legal Guidelines and Safety Requirements

 

H - M

Identify Potential Design Improvements

Knowledgeable of Machining and Fabrication Process

Make Regular Site Visits

Manage and Monitor Each Stage of Project

Math Skills

Mechanical Skills

Microsoft Office Suite Experience

 

N - S

Oversee Project Manufacturing Process

Perform Equipment and System Calculations

Prepare Designs and Estimates

Prepare Conclusion and Analysis Reports

Pro-E CREO Computer Aided Design Software

Proactive and Willing to Take on New Challenges

Problem Solving

Product Validation Experience

Provide Cost Estimates for Materials, Equipment, and/or Labor

Read and Interpret Drawings and Specifications

Recommend Modifications for Design Improvements and Simplification

Research Materials for Future Design Opportunities and Usage

Sound Knowledge of Engineering Fundamentals

Strong Presenter

 

T - Z

Teamwork

Test Building Materials

Troubleshoot Equipment to Solve Problems

Understand Diagrams, Drafts, Flow-Charts, and Other Information and Documentation

Use Notes, Sketches, and Verbal Instructions to Complete Project Design

Use Software to Design Within Industry and Government Standards

Write and Maintain Operating Procedures and Standards

Work Effectively Under Pressure

Work to Improve and Maintain Existing Products

 

 

 

AUTHOR: ALISON DOYLE