The skills you must have as a mechanical engineer
Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing, manufacturing, building, testing, and maintaining mechanical systems, tools, and components. Mechanical engineering encompasses a variety of sub-sectors requiring specialist skills and knowledge. At PPR, we work with clients seeking mechanical engineers in areas as diverse as the construction sector, industrial manufacturing, and the rail industry.
Each individual industry requires specialist skills and knowledge when it comes to mechanical engineering, although there are many transferable skills for all mechanical operations. As a mechanical engineer, the following abilities will usually be required, whichever sector you choose.
Essential technical skills for a mechanical engineer
- Confident using CAD software to create new designs, specifications, and models
- Experience using EPDM software to effectively manage product data & engineering processes
- Research and laboratory experience
- Analysing data to solve faults with mechanical components
- Testing prototypes, tools, machinery, and components
- Comprehension of the latest industry regulations regarding mechanical engineering in your specific sector
- Technical ability and a solid grasp of maths including algebra, physics, and critical thinking
As a mechanical engineer, you will also need a range of soft skills to complete your work to a high level. These may include:
Attributes of a successful mechanical engineer
- High levels of creativity and foresight
- Independent problem-solving and leadership skills
- Excellent teamwork, interpersonal, and effective communication skills as part of a team and individually
- Time management and attention to detail
- Self-motivation
As well as these skills and attributes, mechanical engineers will need to be qualified to various levels of expertise depending on the mechanical work being carried out. With 186,000 engineers needed annually in the UK until 2024 just to plug the skills gap, mechanical engineering is a popular career choice with endless opportunities. Training as a mechanical engineer typically involves a degree or a master’s degree in engineering, although many employers will accept similar qualifications combined with relevant work experience.
What qualifications do you need to be a mechanical engineer?
Some qualifications required as a mechanical engineer include:
- Level 3 Diploma in mechanical engineering
- 2.1 degree in mechanical engineering (BEng) or a master’s degree (MEng)
- A postgraduate qualification
- Level 4/5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in engineering (mechanical engineering)
It’s also possible to enter the industry via an apprenticeship scheme, allowing you to learn valuable real-life skills while you study.
Find your next mechanical engineering role or candidate with PPR Recruitment
Whether you’re looking for a new start, or require skilled, experienced, and reliable mechanical engineers, we can help. Give our recruitment experts a call on 01895 808188 or get in touch online to find out more.
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