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Mechanical engineer

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Engineering
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Career outlook for mechanical engineer

UK Salary Ranges

Entry-level

£20,000

Experienced

£52,000

Currently employed in Scotland

9,600

Salary information is provided by the "National Careers Service". "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures. Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.

What's it like?

You'd design and test components and machines. It'd be your job to oversee the set-up of machines and check they work correctly.

You could work on different projects in many industries including:

  • manufacturing
  • construction
  • water
  • power
  • health
  • transport
  • space

For example, you could work in renewable energy to install off-shore wind turbines. Design and test improvements to prosthetic implants to help people with limited mobility. Or work on the life support systems needed to keep people alive and comfortable in orbit.

What you might do

  • turn research ideas into technical plans
  • use computer aided design/modelling (CAD/CAM) programs
  • survey mechanical systems and equipment to check they're working
  • research new products and innovations
  • present design plans and data to managers and clients
  • produce technical documents for projects
  • oversee maintenance programmes and quality control

You’d support the contract team in your company when they bid for new projects.

You'd manage and lead a project team of technicians, designers and craftspeople. They'd carry out installation and maintenance work on the machines you design.

Working conditions

Hours

You would normally work 37 to 40 hours a week, although this could increase depending on projects and deadlines. You may be on a shift system, which could include evenings and weekends, depending on your job.

Environment

Your working environment could vary from a modern, open-plan office to factory production areas and outdoor sites.

Travel

Depending on the contract, you may have to travel abroad at times.

UK employment status

Full-time

88%

Part-time

5%

Self employed

7%

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Here are some of the skills needed for this job. Sign in to see how your skills match up.

  • Cooperating
  • Working with technology
  • Problem solving
  • Observation
  • Researching
  • Attention to detail
  • Developing a plan
  • Managing resources
  • Coaching
  • Delegating

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Getting in

Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.

Qualifications

You would need a degree (SCQF level 9/10) or postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11) in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics or Applied Physics.

You can enter a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.

Entry to a degree (SCQF level 9/10) requires National 5 qualifications and Highers at BBBB with Advanced Higher preferred, or a relevant HNC/HND. 

Useful subjects

  • maths (required by many courses and employers)
  • science subjects, in particular physics (required by many courses and employers) 
  • English
  • technologies subjects such as engineering science

Helpful to have

Qualifications that show understanding and experience of the industry such as Skills for Work Engineering Skills (SCFQ level 4).

Employers value work experience so finding courses with work placements or an internship, or working for a year in industry can be especially useful.

Once in a job it could benefit your career if you worked towards incorporated or chartered status with a relevant industry body and apply to the Engineering Council. You can also improve your career prospects by completing the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) continuing professional development (CPD) courses that allow you to develop specific skills and knowledge required by the automotive industry.