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Mechanical Engineer

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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:

Mechanical engineers are involved in a wide range of industries including aviation, power generation, manufacturing, refrigeration and airconditioning, transportation and mechanical handling. Mechanical engineers may specialise in areas such as research and development, engineering design, production, plant and maintenance.

Manufacturing Systems Engineer

A manufacturing systems engineer designs and improves systems and equipment that complete tasks accurately and change raw materials into products with the smallest 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 airconditioning 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
  • able to work as part of a team
  • able to accept responsibility.

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