08 June 2020

A mechanical engineering degree will open a lot of career paths for you after graduation. It’s likely you will have completed some work experience during your degree or have some ideas on the path you wish to take, but here are some careers available to inspire you further.

Mechanical Engineer

This might seem obvious as it is a straightforward path from degree to job role, but if math, science, and new technologies are your thing, this could be ideal. Mechanical engineers are creative types. They design and develop mechanical devices, used in engines, electric appliances, and tools, applying their skills across numerous industries. This role could see you working at a factory, helping to produce machinery parts, or even as part of a team that builds space shuttles or aircraft.

Biomedical Engineer/Medical Biotechnologist/Biotechnology Engineer

If you have an interest in healthcare as well as engineering, this is a hybrid that would suit you. Medical innovations and new software are designed and developed by biomedical engineers, meaning you get to influence the healthcare sector and make a difference with your work. Medical machinery is vital, but you could also be working on prosthetics, artificial organs, or surgical robotics. Some biomedical engineers also work with research behind new medical devices to improve their design for future use, so analytical skills come to play in these roles too.

Automotive Engineer  

The technology behind the automotive industry is constantly evolving. As an engineer in this field, you could be helping to develop new safety tech, new parts, working on fuel efficiency or any number of innovations. Another creative role, as you will be finding solutions and creating change. Automotive engineers create, edit, and improve designs using CAD (computer-aided design) software and test components and prototypes. They also write detailed reports on their findings and consult on costs, materials, and deadlines. This means that project management skills could help you in this role. 

Mechanical Engineering Technician 

Mechanical engineering technicians help mechanical engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture mechanical devices. A big part of this role is in the analysing of data and testing. A technician will plan layouts, draw sketches, and then apply estimates and calculations to make sure what’s being tried is viable. Mechanical Engineering Technicians work in teams to discuss future changes of a tool or machine, and supports projects to make ensure they are completed safely and within a budget. Communication and project management skills are important in this role. 

Industrial Engineer 

If you like to plan meticulously and get a project completed as efficiently as possible, then this is a career path for you. Industrial Engineers use their mathematical and mechanical engineering expertise to solve problems that arise in production or manufacturing of products. They advise on materials and testing procedures to make sure tasks are completed on schedule and keep projects running smoothly. This role could see you working across all kinds of areas within construction industry such as healthcare or transportation, but the goal is always to improve efficiency of workflow. 

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Engineer 

This type of engineer works with the systems that control air quality and the environments they are used in. The technologies in this field are evolving as the world becomes increasingly aware of the effects of global warming on air quality. HVAC engineers install, maintain, and repair the systems that control temperature and quality of air, meaning they work across a broad range of sectors in the construction industry and solve problems as they arise. Some concentrate their work on one type of system, such as heating or air conditioning, while others cover every method.  

Begin your career in Mechanical Engineering 

CITB is the industry training board for the construction sector in England, Scotland and Wales. If you don’t have a degree in mechanical engineering, but want to find out about training or courses to help you start a career path, get in touch. 

Not sure where to start? Take a look at our CITB Apprenticeships or courses and qualifications, or read our other blog posts for some inspiration. 

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