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Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers plan, design and oversee the development, installation, operation and maintenance of machinery.

They conduct research to solve practical engineering problems and improve efficiency.

Mechanical engineers often work closely with other professionals (such as with architects in designing air conditioning plants), at times pooling expertise on particular projects.

Mechanical engineers may work in production plants, in offices and outdoors when involved in construction projects.

TASKS

Mechanical engineers may perform the following tasks:

design new machines, equipment or systems, taking into account cost, availability of materials, and strength and maintenance requirements
consider the appearance of the designs as well as the impact on users and on the environment
carry out research on the use of different types of fuel and energy, materials handling, heating and cooling processes, the storage and pumping of liquids and gases, and environmental controls
use computer-aided design (CAD) to assist with design and drawing
design and construct resource development projects such as offshore platforms, onshore gas plants and iron ore mining facilities
supervise the operation of manufacturing process plants such as vehicle and electrical appliance production plants, coal handling installations, power stations, and sewerage and water supply pumping stations
specify, select and install factory machinery and production systems and manage machinery maintenance
set up work control systems (such as the testing of equipment) to ensure that performance, quality, cost and safety requirements are met
act as consultants, researching possible changes or improvements and estimating costs of products for clients

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy technical and engineering activities
willing to adhere to safety requirements
able to identify, analyse and solve problems
good oral and written communication skills
enjoy computing and technical design
practical and creative
able to work independently or as part of a team
able to accept responsibility

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Manufacturing Systems Engineer - designs and improves systems and equipment that complete tasks accurately and change raw materials into products with minimal wastage of time, materials and energy.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a mechanical engineer you usually have to complete a degree in engineering at university with a major in mechanical engineering. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry and physics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in engineering with a major in mechanical engineering.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Mechanical engineering graduates may be eligible for membership of Engineers Australia. Visit their website for more details.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Mechanical engineers are involved in a wide range of industries, including aviation, power generation, manufacturing, refrigeration and air conditioning, transportation and mechanical handling. They may specialise in areas such as research and development, engineering design, production, plant and maintenance.

Mechanical engineers work in private engineering firms and in the building, mining, construction, power, manufacturing and processing industries. Universities and federal, state, territory and local government agencies also offer opportunities for employment. In addition, some mechanical engineers find employment with consultancy firms, while others are self-employed as consultants or contractors.

Job opportunities depend on activity in the minerals, manufacturing and construction industries.