Mechanical Design Jobs

Mechanical design jobs are at the centre of engineering excellence and innovation. Typically, these roles will involve creating, developing, and improving mechanical systems, machinery, or products.

As the demand for advanced technologies and efficient systems grows, mechanical design engineers play a crucial role in many industries. Some of these industries include automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer electronics.

The importance of mechanical design engineering recruitment?

Mechanical design is the process of designing and developing mechanical systems, devices, or components. As a result, mechanical design engineers will need an understanding of mechanics, kinematics, thermodynamics, materials science, and structural analysis.

Computer-aided design (CAD) software is used by mechanical designers in the creation of detailed models and prototypes. This ensures the systems designed and developed are functional, reliable, and can be manufactured.

What are the key responsibilities of mechanical design engineers?

Given the scope of the role, mechanical design engineers will have several key responsibilities. This includes:

  • Conceptualising designs – creating innovative design concepts for new products or improving upon existing designs.
  • CAD modelling – using CAD software, such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, to create detailed 3D models and technical drawings.
  • Prototyping and testing – developing and testing prototypes for validating design concepts and ensuring they meet the specifications.
  • Material selection – selecting the most appropriate materials for a given component based on price, performance, and quality.
  • Collaboration – working in cross-functional teams alongside other departments, including supply chain, manufacturing, and marketing so that designs align with business objectives.
  • Compliance and standards – checking that all designs comply with industry standards and regulations.

What are the requirements for a mechanical design engineering role?

For anyone wanting to pursue a career in mechanical design engineering, you will require a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field. For more advanced and senior positions, a master’s degree may be required. Some roles will also require specialist certifications or accreditations.

There’s also a range of essential skills that are vital for a role in mechanical design engineering, including:

  • CAD software proficiency.
  • Understanding of engineering principles.
  • Problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Attention to detail and creativity.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.

What are the career paths and opportunities for mechanical design jobs?

Typically, mechanical design engineers will start as junior designers before progressing upwards to senior positions. There is the possibility of progressing to project management roles or a specialised area, such as simulation and analysis.

Here are some of the potential career paths open to mechanical design engineers:

  • Junior mechanical designer – an entry-level position that involves basic design tasks and learning industry practices.
  • Senior mechanical engineer – responsible for leading design projects, mentoring junior engineers, and overcoming complex design challenges.
  • Project manager – oversees project timelines, budgets, and coordination between teams to ensure a successful outcome.
  • Product development engineer – focuses on the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to production.
  • Research and development engineer – works on innovative projects and new technologies, typically in a lab setting.

What industries and companies hire mechanical design engineers?

Mechanical design plays a crucial role in many different industries. Some of the industries where mechanical design engineers are most in demand include:

  • Automotive – designing engines, vehicle components, and transmission systems.
  • Aerospace – designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, and any related technology.
  • Manufacturing – developing the machinery and tools to ensure efficient production processes.
  • Consumer electronics – designing everyday consumer electronics, including appliances, gadgets, and devices.
  • Robotics – developing automated systems and robotic solutions.

Some of the top companies hiring mechanical design engineers include General Motors, Boeing, Siemens, Apple, Tesla, and Lockheed Martin.

What are the salary expectations for mechanical design engineer jobs?

The salaries for mechanical design engineers will differ depending on the location, company, education, experience, and industry. However, the salary expectations for mechanical design engineers in the UK are:

  • Entry-level positions (less than 2 years of experience) – between £25,000 and £30,000 per annum.
  • Mid-level positions (3-7 years of experience) – between £35,000 and £50,000 per annum.
  • Senior-level positions (over 8 years of experience) – between £50,000 and £70,000 per annum.

Mechanical design engineers may also experience additional benefits with their role, alongside the salary. Some additional benefits can include bonuses, pension schemes, health insurance, and career progression opportunities within the company.

How can you secure a mechanical design engineer job role?

There are several ways you can help secure a job role as a mechanical design engineer. Some of the most effective ways include:

  • Gaining qualifications and experience through a relevant degree and hands-on experience from internships and co-op programs.
  • Building a strong portfolio of your design projects, including CAD models and prototypes.
  • Expanding your professional network by connecting with industry professionals, either at conferences, seminars, or using online platforms (such as LinkedIn).
  • Keeping up-to-date with industry advances and current trends.
  • Preparing for a job interview ensuring you demonstrate your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and passion for design.

Mechanical design engineering can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path for those who have a strong passion for engineering and innovation. Ensuring you have relevant qualifications, vital skills, and passion, you can ensure a successful career within this field. As technology continues to evolve, mechanical design engineers will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future.

Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs

Mechanical Design positions require strong technical skills and expertise.

Our key focus is toward automated machinery design with additional support for structural steel and process plant. Many mechanical design jobs are available throughout the UK.

Graduate through to Design Manager and Principal level Engineers. Positions offer competitive salaries and benefits, with many offering career growth and advancement.

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Mechanical Design FAQs

How do I get a job as a mechanical engineer?

To get mechanical design engineer jobs, you will first need a relevant degree in either mechanical engineering or a similar engineering discipline. Additional qualifications, such as accredited certifications, can improve your job prospects.

Gaining relevant industry experience can also help you get a job as a mechanical engineer. Undertaking internships, placements, work experience, or training can provide relevant job experience. Developing relevant skills and actively seeking positions can also help.

What is the salary growth of a mechanical design engineer?

Mechanical design engineers have a good salary growth. Entry-level roles in mechanical design can begin from £20,000 to £25,000. Advancing in a career in mechanical design can see wages grow to £60,000 for senior positions.

How to become a successful mechanical design engineer

To become a successful mechanical design engineer, you will require a relevant engineering degree. Additionally, many skills are essential in machine design jobs. Mechanical engineers will require strong IT and maths skills. Other skills you will need include:

  • Problem-solving.
  • Analytical.
  • Communication.
  • Teamwork.
  • Creativity.

What does an entry-level mechanical engineer do?

An entry-level role in mechanical engineering includes several duties and responsibilities, including:

  • Designing and building prototypes.
  • Conduct testing on prototypes.
  • Researching mechanical devices.
  • Programming or software testing.
  • Carrying out repairs to devices.

What is the best career advice for a mechanical design engineer?

There are many resources available to help build your career as a mechanical design engineer. The best career advice for mechanical design engineers is to gain as much practical experience as possible to help you gain a much deeper understanding of the job role and different duties.

Is mechanical design engineering good for core jobs?

Yes, mechanical engineering is good for core jobs. Roles in mechanical engineering provide many opportunities across many industries, including automation, robotics, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy.

What is the best field for mechanical design engineering?

Mechanical engineering offers roles across many different fields. There is not one ‘best’ field for mechanical engineering, as this depends on personal preference. However, salary can be one big influencing factor. Fields such as aeronautics, nanotechnology, and pharmaceuticals are the highest-paying fields.

Are there good job opportunities in mechanical design?

Yes, there are many good job opportunities in mechanical engineering. The field focuses on designing, developing, installing, and maintaining mechanical components, and it is used in various industries and sectors, providing many job opportunities.

What are the most travelling-intensive mechanical design jobs?

Some mechanical design jobs will involve more travelling than others. The job, company, or industry can determine how much travelling is required. In particular, the energy industry requires a lot of travelling.

How long should you work as an entry-level mechanical design engineer?

Typically, you should work in an entry-level engineering position for around two years. This will give you a sufficient understanding of the job and allow you to gain practical knowledge and skills.

What’s the best way to search for a mechanical design job?

There are many resources available to support your job search for mechanical design roles. Some of the most popular methods include contacting engineering companies directly, using job boards, specialist recruitment agencies, and industry networks.

What do recruiters look for in mechanical design engineers?

One of the biggest factors recruiters look for in mechanical design engineers is their skillset, including both technical and soft skills. In particular, technical skills are most in demand. Experience with software programming and languages is one of the most sought-after skills.

Should I use a technical recruiter?

There are many benefits to using a technical recruiter. Many recruiters will closely work with companies and thoroughly understand the skills and experience needed to fulfil a role.

Specialist recruitment firms will also have experience and expertise within their given field. Sometimes, they may also have unique job opportunities that are not advertised anywhere else. Some recruiters may also provide guidance and support throughout the recruitment process.

Are all mechanical design engineering jobs desk jobs?

No, not every mechanical design engineering job is a desk job. While some may focus on working at a desk to design mechanical components, other roles include implementing and maintaining existing or new mechanical components.

Who are the top international engineering recruiting firms?

Some of the top international engineering recruiting firms include:

  • Fircroft
  • General Electric (GE)
  • NES Global Talent
  • Microsoft
  • Morson Group
  • Samsung
  • Adecco Group
  • Ford Motor Company
  • Aerotek
  • Boeing

Further Reading