How to become a 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.

• 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

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.

Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems and devices. They apply physics, mathematics, and material science principles to create various products, machinery, and equipment. Mechanical Engineers work in various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, and robotics.

• Minimum Monthly Salary: For entry-level Mechanical Engineers or those working in smaller companies, the monthly salary in India may range from INR 25,000 to INR 40,000, especially at the beginning of their careers.
• Maximum Monthly Salary: Experienced and highly skilled Mechanical Engineers working in established companies or holding leadership positions can earn a monthly salary of INR 80,000 to INR 1,50,000 or more.
• Annual Salary: The annual salary of a Mechanical Engineer can vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, the scale and success of the projects they work on, and their reputation in the industry. It can range from INR 3,00,000 to INR 18,00,000 or higher for experienced professionals.
• Highest Paying Job and Scope: The highest paying jobs for Mechanical Engineers are often in aerospace, defence, oil and gas, and automotive industries. Senior-level positions in research and development, design, and project management also offer higher salaries. Mechanical Engineering has a broad scope, with increasing demand in emerging technologies like renewable energy, robotics, and automation.

In order to enrol into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear the JEE main and subsequently, the JEE Advance exam which makes the aspirant eligible to apply anywhere in India. It is a very difficult and challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests. 

With a relevant educational background, appealing attributes and preferably with the experience gained during an internship, aspirants may apply for the following mechanical engineering jobs:

• Assistant Manager
• Process Development Technologist
• Mechanical Engineer
• Sales Engineer
• Technician
• Engineering Trainee
• Manufacturing Manager
• Mechanical Designer
• Mechanical Consultant
• Site Mechanical Engineer
• Service Engineer
• Instructional Designer
• Service Maintenance Engineer
• Product designer