Mechanical Engineers
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
Median pay: $104,110/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +9.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 18,100 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
• Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, or maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems or processes to meet requirements.
• Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering design, performance specifications, or environmental regulations.
• Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information.
• Investigate equipment failures or difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and recommend remedial actions.
• Recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.
• Research and analyze customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, or other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, or maintenance requirements of designs or applications.
• Provide technical customer service.
What's the median pay for Mechanical Engineers?
The median pay for Mechanical Engineers is $104,110 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Mechanical Engineers?
Employment for Mechanical Engineers is projected to change +9.1% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Mechanical Engineers?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Mechanical Engineers?
About 18,100 openings per year, on average, over the decade.