Mechanical Engineers
Description OES Code: 22135
Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of such equipment as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.

Wages, California
Entry Level Hourly Wage $22.81
25th Percentile $26.09
50th Percentile $32.36
75th Percentile $40.04

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry Level Hourly Wage $19.14
25th Percentile $21.29
50th Percentile $26.01
75th Percentile $31.15

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Fringe benefits usually include paid vacation, sick leave, retirement, health, dental and vision insurance plans. Some employers also offer stock option and/or profit-sharing plans.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 23,100
Projected Employment 2008 29,000
Percent Change 1998-2008 25.5%
Separations 1998-2008 5,000

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 80
Projected Employment 2006 100
Percent Change 1999-2006 25%
Separations 1999-2006 10

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Mechanical Engineers are employed in virtually every industry, with most working for manufacturing firms and a substantial number employed by consulting services. Although some engineers spend most of their time in an office, many jobs require working part of the time in a plant, testing laboratory, machine shop, or installation site. Engineers also travel to professional conferences and training sessions to keep abreast of recent advances in the field. Engineering is normally not a physically strenuous job. However, the pressure of deadlines or the need for emergency repairs can cause considerable stress.

Advancement
Mechanical Engineers must keep up with new technologies and developments in their field through reading, advanced courses, conferences and professional society seminars. Those who are hired with bachelor's degrees may be expected to work toward their master's. Most companies pay some or all of the costs for career-related education. Experienced engineers may promote to senior or project engineer. Some move into management after several years of technical work.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Prior to graduation, students may sign up for interviews with recruiters on campus. Job seekers may also reply to ads in campus, local or national newspapers and in professional journals. Networking through professional society meetings could also lead to jobs. Applicants may also use the services of professional recruitment agencies and register with the nearest California Employment Development Department Job Service.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
A bachelor of science in mechanical engineering (BSME) or a related engineering degree is the minimum requirement for most entry-level positions. Some employers prefer a master's degree; others hire only those who have at least two years' experience. Mechanical Engineers whose work may affect the public welfare (such as consulting engineers and those in decision-making positions in certain governmental agencies) must be registered by the State. To obtain registration, engineers must have at least a BSME degree and two years' engineering experience. They must pass the Engineer-in-Training examination and, later, the professional examination in mechanical engineering. While registration is not required for all jobs, a registered engineer may have a competitive edge for advancement to more responsible positions. Important college prep courses include algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and physics. Courses in mechanical drawing and drafting, computer science, machine shop and business administration are helpful.

Skills & Other Requirements
Engineers should be creative, inquisitive, analytical, and detail-oriented. They should be able to work as part of a team and be able to communicate well, both orally and in writing. Because of opportunities in high tech fields such as bioengineering, computer mechanics, composite materials, cryogenics and thermosciences. Engineers with skills in CAD, computer-integrated-manufacturing (CIM), robotics and other forefront technologies will be the most competitive.

References
California Occupational Guide #5

Related Occupations: Industrial Engineers, Electrical/Electronics Engineers, Civil Engineers,

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)