Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers plan, design and oversee the development, installation, operation and maintenance of machinery. They conduct research to solve practical engineering problems and improve efficiency.

Mechanical engineers may perform the following tasks:

design new machines, equipment or systems taking into account cost, availability of materials, strength and maintenance requirements
consider the appearance of the designs as well as the impact on the user and on the environment
carry out research in the use of different types of fuel and energy, materials handling, heating and cooling processes, the storage and pumping of liquids and gases, and environmental controls
use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to assist in design and drawing
undertake the design and construction of resource development projects such as offshore platforms, onshore gas plants and iron ore mining facilities
supervise the operation of manufacturing process plants such as vehicle and electrical appliance production plants, coal handling installations, power stations and sewerage and water supply pumping stations
specify, select, install and manage the maintenance of factory production and machinery
set up work control systems (e.g. testing of equipment) to make sure that standards of performance, quality, cost and safety are met
act as consultants, carrying out studies about possible changes or improvements and estimating costs of products for clients.

Specialisations:

Manufacturing Systems Engineer

A manufacturing systems engineer designs and improves systems and equipment that complete tasks accurately and change raw materials into products with minimal wastage of time, materials and energy.

Mechanical engineers frequently work closely with other professionals, at times pooling expertise on particular projects (e.g. with architects in designing air conditioning plants).

Mechanical engineers may work in production plants, in offices and outdoors when involved in construction projects.

Personal Requirements:

enjoy technical and engineering activities
willing to adhere to safety requirements
able to identify, analyse and solve problems
good oral and written communication skills
enjoy computing and technical design
practical and creative
able to work independently or as part of a team
able to accept responsibility.

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