A mechanical design engineer uses cutting-edge technology to create mechanical devices, equipment, and tools that are used in various industries’ manufacturing and production processes. They also look for signs of structural fatigue, thermal stress, or vibration in mechanical systems, components, and equipment. Even though these engineers gain a great deal of knowledge and skill through on-the-job training, they must complete formal education and training in order to be hired. Engineers in this field may work in a variety of industries and collaborate with engineers from other fields. An engineer’s responsibilities range from initial design to the construction of a working prototype.
Mechanical design engineering degrees range from an associate’s degree in applied science to a doctoral degree required to teach the subject. Most employers will require a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. While formal training is important, design engineers also gain a great deal of knowledge and experience by working on a variety of projects. Some design engineers may have worked in more than one industry over the course of several years, gaining relevant experience and knowledge in each. For example, while working in another industry, an engineer with experience designing space suits in the aerospace industry might use that experience to create lighter equipment for firefighters.
The industry in which a mechanical design engineer works will most likely determine the type of mechanical components or systems designed. A design engineer working in the automotive industry, for example, might be designing various electronic components for automobiles. Mechanical systems and modifications for various types of aircraft will most likely be designed by engineers working in the aviation industry. In order to complete these tasks, mechanical design engineers may collaborate with other types of engineers or technicians.
A sketch or drawing is produced by mechanical design engineers to begin the process of creating something. This drawing could be made using a variety of computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems. They may also supervise or direct the creation of these preliminary design drawings by other engineers. The analysis and troubleshooting of mechanical processes, components, or equipment to ensure reliability is another part of the overall design process. Before a design can go into final production, a mechanical design engineer may be required to create a fully functional prototype.