In Summary - Mechanical Engineer
Career Sectors
Mechanical Engineers typically work in the following Career Sectors:
Videos & Interviews
Brendan Cavanagh, Ships Engineer
Brendan is currently a second engineer operating out of Killybegs in Donegal. He completed his Leaving Cert in Carndonagh Community School in 2001. He has studied several courses at the National Fisheries College and expects to complete his Class 1 Certificate next year.
Videos on the Web
- Mechanical Engineer- from: Youtube Search
- Aircraft Maintenance & Engineering - from: Aer Lingus [Video]
- Central Engineering & Mechanisms - from: icould [UK] Video
- Mechanical Engineer - from: icould [UK] Video
- Mechanical Engineer - from: iCould [UK] Video
Further Information
- Mechanical Engineer - from: N.C.S. [UK]
- Mechanical engineer - from: GradIreland
- Mechanical Engineering - from: STEPS
The Work - Mechanical Engineer
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
- Assist drafters in developing the structural design of products using drafting tools or computer-assisted design (CAD) or drafting equipment and software.
- Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, and maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems and processes to meet requirements, applying knowledge of engineering principles.
- Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information.
- Recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.
- Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment, components, or systems.
- Investigate equipment failures and difficulties to diagnose faulty operation, and to make recommendations to maintenance crew.
- Develop and test models of alternate designs and processing methods to assess feasibility, operating condition effects, possible new applications and necessity of modification.
- Develop, coordinate, or monitor all aspects of production, including selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, or operation of product designs.
- Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering design and performance specifications.
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Analyzing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Interests - Mechanical Engineer
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Entry Requirements - Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers typically complete an appropriate engineering degree or equivalent qualification.
It is essential to explore course details to make sure the engineering course you chose is appropriate to the branch of engineering you want to follow.
Depending on level of entry, Mechanical Engineers can gain Chartered Engineer or Associate Engineer status. You can apply for these professional titles through Engineers Ireland after first gaining an accredited degree, diploma or certificate, followed by three or four years experience in the workplace. A list of accredted programmes is available here. All professional titles are highly regarded by employers throughout industry.
Last Updated: October, 2014
Pay & Salary - Mechanical Engineer
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €25k - €65k
Mechanical Design Engineer: 25 - 60
Mechanical Engineer: 25 - 65
Mechanical Engineer - Construction 35-65
HVAC Engineer 30-65
Data Source(s):
Sigmar / CPL / Hudson / Lincoln
Last Updated: July, 2017
* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.
Labour Market Updates - Mechanical Engineer
Employment growth in this occupational group, which includes mechanical, electrical and electronic engineers, was above average. Employers are frequently citing these occupations as difficult to fill although the demand is likely to be small in number given the size of the employment stock. While the supply from the education system appears to be growing, demand is mostly for roles requiring sector-specific experience (e.g. medium-high, high-tech and food/beverage manufacturing).
National Skills Bulletin 2018
Useful Contacts - Mechanical Engineer
-
Engineers Ireland
- 22 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4
- (01) 665 1300
- Click Here
