what is a mechanical engineer?

As a mechanical engineer, you are tasked with designing, building and testing mechanical devices. You construct and modify a variety of machines and systems. You also install and maintain motors, equipment and industrial systems based on their desired uses. Since you develop specifications for designing and creating tools and systems, you assess the project's requirements and develop mechanical designs for the new products. You also ascertain the performance of mechanical components by creating and conducting testing processes.

Mechanical engineers work in various industries. They use their knowledge of engineering concepts to develop machines used in the healthcare, energy, transport and manufacturing sectors. Some also work in research facilities to develop and test advanced technologies like nanotechnology and biotechnology. The roles of mechanical engineers vary as different industries apply unique engineering concepts to create products and mechanical components. Since mechanical engineering is needed in all sectors, you can secure a job in your desired industry.

It requires technical knowledge and problem-solving skills to modify existing machine designs. You should also demonstrate the scientific and numerical ability to solve complex mechanical issues. As a mechanical engineer, you continuously find new ways to develop systems and products, which requires adaptability to the changing requirements.

Would working as a mechanical engineer suit your problem-solving skills and numerical ability? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a mechanical engineer role.

mechanical engineer jobs
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average mechanical engineer salary

According to the Economic Research Institute, mechanical engineers in Greece receive a median salary of €44,000 per year. When you are new to the role, you start with a salary of €30,000 annually, but with experience, your earnings increase gradually. You can improve your compensation package by boosting your educational qualifications and gaining additional expertise. The highest-paid mechanical engineers take home a salary of over €54,000 yearly.

Your earnings depend on your employer and the projects you handle. When you work for a large company, you are likely to earn a higher salary since they have unlimited resources. In addition, you handle more complex projects since large organisations are usually involved in bigger projects.

The location also influences your earnings. Some cities have higher salary packages due to the demand for mechanical engineers and the high cost of living.

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types of mechanical engineers

Some of the mechanical engineering fields and specialisation options include:

male wearing protective eyewear and ear muffs
male wearing protective eyewear and ear muffs
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working as a mechanical engineer

As a mechanical engineer, you design technical plans and perform the research required to create new machine systems and products. If you want to join this exciting career, explore the role's duties, work schedule and work environment.

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mechanical engineer skills and education

If you want to become a mechanical engineer in Greece, you require the following academic qualifications and professional certifications:

  • University degree: you require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. Mechanical engineering technology programmes focus on the practical application of engineering principles and prepare you for the industry.
  • Professional licence: you require a licence to practise as a certified engineer. Pursue a diploma certificate or a bachelor's degree from a Greek Higher Education Institution (HEI) to receive the licence. Registering as a member of the Technical Chamber of Greece is also important.

competencies and characteristics of mechanical engineers

Some of the transferable skills that a mechanical engineer requires include:

  • Problem-solving skills: as a mechanical engineer, you should be good at analysing and solving real-world problems. Problem-solving skills help you develop solutions and product modifications.
  • Creativity: your creative powers enable you to invent and design products and solutions for different industrial processes. Artfully-designed mechanical components usually rely on your creativity.
  • Maths skills: becoming a mechanical engineer requires a strong aptitude for mathematics and numerical skills. Maths skills are useful for analysing data and applying mathematical concepts to design.
  • Adaptability: engineering concepts and methods change from time to time. Hence, it is important to be adaptable to changing industry standards and requirements. Your adaptability helps you find innovative ways to improve client success.
  • Attention to detail: you require attention to detail to ensure the components of mechanical systems function as expected. Your detail-oriented skills also help you create systems that meet specifications or conduct quality inspections to identify possible malfunctions.
  • Critical thinking skills: since you are expected to make effective decisions, you require critical thinking skills. During the design stage, you choose the best methods for the company and get cost-effective options. You use your critical thinking skills to analyse the mechanical systems and determine the next course of action.
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FAQs

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a mechanical engineer.

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