Work activities

As a mechanical engineer, your day-to-day duties will vary according to the job but could include:

• turning research ideas into technical plans, using computer aided design/modeling(CAD/CAM) programs
• carrying out surveys of mechanical systems and equipment to see if they're working properly
• researching and assessing new products and innovations
• presenting design plans and data to managers and clients
• producing other technical documents for projects
• supporting the contract team when bidding for new work
• overseeing maintenance programs and quality control
• managing and leading a project team technicians, designers and other engineering professionals.

you could work in a variety of industries and on different projects. For example you might be involved in the renewable energy and the installation of off-shore wind turbines. You could be responsible for making sure the pumps and valves in the water distribution networks deliver clean water to homes and business. Or, you may work in healthcare, designing and testing improvements to prosthetic implants to help people with limited mobility.