Mechanical Engineer
Design, build, and improve machines and mechanical systems.
This UK mechanical engineer career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £26,000 - £35,000
- Mid-career salary
- £42,000 - £60,000
- Senior salary
- £65,000 - £95,000+
- Work environment
- Office, factory, or site
- Time to entry
- 3 - 5 Years (degree + IEng / CEng route)
- Degree required
- Yes (or apprenticeship)
- Category
- Engineering, Construction and Infrastructure
What a Mechanical Engineer does
Design, build, and improve machines and mechanical systems.
- Automotive Engineer - Design or improve vehicles and components.
- Aerospace Engineer - Work on aircraft, satellites, and propulsion.
How to become a Mechanical Engineer
- Look up Mechanical Engineer roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Mechanical Engineer - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Maths
- CAD
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail