Jobs after MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

Table of Contents: 

• Introduction 
• Tasks performed by a mechanical engineer
• Problem-solving is in the DNA of mechanical engineers!!! 
• Sectors in which mechanical engineers are the heroes!!!
• MS in Mechanical engineering in the USA
• Why study MS in mechanical engineering in the USA?
• Top universities in the USA offering MS in mechanical engineering
• The jobs market for mechanical engineers in the USA- Overview
• Level of Job satisfaction for mechanical engineers
• List of jobs you can target after Mechanical Engineering
• Top companies that are hiring mechanical engineers
• Conclusion

Introduction 

Mechanical engineering is one of the vastest fields of engineering that involves the application of the principles and problem-solving techniques of engineering. A mechanical engineer takes a product from its inception to the marketplace. Mechanical engineers are professionally trained to design, develop, build, test a product and finally place the product in the market at competitive prices. Mechanical engineers ensure the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the product designed by them. 

At the core, mechanical engineers analyze and evaluate their work using the fundamental principles of motion, force, and energy. Mechanical engineers drive change for the betterment of humanity as they focus on creating technologies that fulfill human needs. Mechanical engineers are born problem solvers. They focus on current problems and devise future solutions to facilitate favorable changes in almost every sector from health care to energy, transportation, world hunger, space exploration, climate change, and more. 

Tasks performed by a mechanical engineer

One word for mechanical engineers is creator!!! Yes, mechanical engineers create almost everything we need for living our lives with ease. Mechanical engineers assist in developing a variety of products to fulfil our day-to-day requirements like refrigerators, microwaves, high-fidelity sound reproduction, transportation, communication. Mechanical engineers focus on providing us with affordable products by implementing new innovative technologies and utilizing sustainable forms of energy. 

Not only do they meet our mundane needs but needs also meet the needs of a nation. They are also involved in creating complex commodities like space shuttles, aircraft, automobiles, turbines, pumps, powerplants, and factories.

A routine set of tasks carried out by a mechanical engineer include the following activities:    

1. Creating a conceptual design of the product.
2. Analyzing its design.
3. Accurately measuring the dimensions of the product/commodity.
4. Creating a developmental design of the product.
5. Data Interpretation.
6. Research and Analysis (FEA and CFD).
7. Performing Concurrent engineering. 
8. Conducting benchmarking analysis of the competitors.
9. Project management.
10. Prototyping the product.
11. Testing the prototype as well as the final product.
12. Engaging in multidisciplinary teamwork.
13. Working with the suppliers.
14. Managing sales.
15. Consulting.
16. Customer service.

Problem-solving is in the DNA of mechanical engineers!!! 

Mechanical engineers constantly update their knowledge and skills through research, innovation, creative design and development, construction, control, management of products/devices to solve the problems faced by society.

So, basically, how do mechanical engineers solve the problems faced by the world?? Mechanical engineers go through the following brainstorming questions to find unique solutions to the problems faced by society: 

1. In the face of a rapidly warming planet, how can we identify, develop, and expand efficient renewable energy sources to meet global energy needs?
2. How can artificial limbs and prostheses be optimised to reduce mobility restrictions for people with disabilities? 
3. How can we develop diagnostic tools to help detect cancer early?
4. How can we combine design thinking and engineering principles to turn ideas into solutions from start to finish?

Sectors in which mechanical engineers are the heroes!!!

Mechanical engineers are largely employable in any field which involves innovation. To begin with, mechanical engineers can work in the following industries:

1. Aerospace 
2. Automobile
3. Chemical
4. Construction
5. Defense
6. Electronics
7. Consumer goods
8. Marine
9. Materials and metals
10. Pharmaceuticals
11. Rail
12. Utilities

Mechanical engineers are innovators so they can work in almost every field. Besides technical fields, mechanical engineers might also try their hands in non-engineering industries like:

1. Finance
2. Management
3. Law
4. Military
5. Government 
6. Medicine
7. Research
8. Technical sales
9. Technical consulting 
10.  Scientific journalism
11.  Teaching

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor, the highest number of mechanical engineers engaged in Architectural, engineering, and related services have the highest employability rate (22%) against other industries. At the same time, the lowest employability rate is associated with scientific research and developmental services (7%) and computer and electronic product manufacturing (7%).

MS in Mechanical engineering in the USA

MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA is a full-time, two-year program. The teaching method could be online or on campus. 

The total MS program fee in mechanical engineering in the US ranges from USD 18,000 to USD 100,000. 

A 4-year degree and GRE score are required for admission to universities offering a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in the USA. 

A mechanical engineer can expect an average annual salary of around USD 81,900. 

Why study MS in mechanical engineering in the USA?

There are a couple of reasons that will compel you to pursue an MS in mechanical engineering in the USA. Here is a list of reasons for studying MS in mechanical engineering in the USA:

• Projected job growth for mechanical engineers in the USA is expected to increase by 4% by 2028.
• Approximately 12,800 new jobs are expected to be generated in the field of mechanical engineering in the USA in the decade 2018 to 2028.
• The USA is the third highest paying country for mechanical engineers. 
• Michigan and California in the US employ the highest number of mechanical engineers.
• On the other hand, the highest paying regions in the US are Michigan, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire.

Top universities in the USA offering MS in mechanical engineering 

The USA, without a doubt, is the world’s most favored destination for studying MS in mechanical engineering because the USA is a hub of the world’s best universities. Planning to apply for MS in mechanical engineering in the USA, then have a look at the top 20 universities in the USA offering this course:

The jobs market for mechanical engineers in the USA- Overview

According to the U.S. News and World Report, Mechanical engineering jobs have been ranked as the number 1 occupation in the Best Engineering Jobs list for 2021. With a median annual salary of $88,430 and an unemployment rate of 1.9%, mechanical engineers have a clear shot at a wide range of jobs compared to engineers in other engineering fields.

Not just this, mechanical engineers have backed 11th position in the list of Best STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) jobs for the year 2021.

Mechanical engineers are in 23rd position for 100 Best Jobs in the world.

Level of Job satisfaction for mechanical engineers

Mechanical engineers can choose to work after their bachelor’s or after completing their master’s in mechanical engineering. Majorly, students prefer to work after their bachelor’s so that by the time they are ready to apply for the master's, they already have the relevant job experience. Doing a job after a bachelor helps mechanical engineers get a clear picture of which field their passion lies in. 

Mechanical engineers should aim at finding a company that helps them learn continuously. In this way, they can explore various fields of interest and choose the field where they will be the best fit to enjoy a fulfilling career in the later phases of their lives. 

Mechanical engineers enjoy a decent level of job satisfaction. The following three parameters are considered while evaluating the job satisfaction level for any job:

1. Job growth prospects: This indicates the level of opportunities for job advancements and increment in salary structure. Mechanical engineers enjoy a higher level of job advancements and salary increments due to the never-ending demand for mechanical engineers around the globe.
2. The stress level of the job: This includes the overall working environment and complexities of the job responsibilities. These things are highly dependent on the company and the job role offered. Overall, mechanical engineers enjoy an average level of stress in their jobs.
3. Work-life balance: One of the most critical factors in evaluating job satisfaction is striking the right balance between working schedule and personal life. Mechanical engineers usually enjoy above-average flexibility in their job schedules.

List of jobs you can target after Mechanical Engineering

1- Mechanical engineering manager: Mechanical engineering managers generally look after the management of the entire mechanical engineering department. They are responsible for handling both administrative and technical aspects of the department. They also maintain work schedules for the entire department and provide updates for weekly staff meetings. They coordinate with project engineers ensuring all the technical and staffing needs are met by every assigned department. 

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a mechanical engineer include:

• Supervise all the mechanical engineers involved in the production, inspection, and review of tools. They also ensure the quality and efficiency of these processes.
• Selecting, approving, and testing materials and supplies based on their quality and compliance to their standardisation and specification.
• Reviewing maintenance and documentation of various programs in the department. 
• Facilitating effective cost reduction strategies.
• Providing expertise to supervise and strategise mechanical engineering designs and ensure effective and timely implementation. 

Skills you will need: Mechanical engineer managers require the following skills to ace their jobs:

A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with relevant work experience in the said field.

Hands-on experience in equipment selection, the layout of the equipment, piping systems, HVAC, and other process systems.

• Engineering design
• People management
• Strategic Project management
• Product development
• Team leadership skills
• Knowledge about nuclear energy/ nuclear power
• Systems engineering
• Operations management
• Plant maintenance
• ANSYS Simulation Software
• Design for Six Sigma (DFSS)
• Test engineering 
• Technical analysis

Expected Annual Salary: Mechanical engineering managers can expect an average annual salary of $1,05,000. Mechanical engineering managers can expect $77,000 per annum at the start of their careers. Later, with more experience in the field, they can expect around $1,44,000 yearly.

Best colleges to target to get this role: According to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), the following top 20 colleges offer mechanical engineering degrees that will help you get this role:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
2. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
3. California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA
4. University of California in Berkeley, CA
5. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
6. University of Illinois in Urbana, IL
7. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
8. Cornell University in Ithaca, NY
9. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
10. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA
11. Princeton University in Princeton, NJ
12. University of Texas in Austin, TX
13. Arizona State University (Fulton) in Tempe, AZ
14. Auburn University (Ginn) in Auburn, AL
15. Baylor University in Waco, TX
16. Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson) in Binghamton, NY
17. Boston University in Boston, MA
18. Brigham Young University in Provo, UT
19. Brown University in Providence, RI
20. California State University in Long Beach, CA

2- Project Engineer: A project manager’s job is to perform scheduling, pre-planning, preparing, and forecasting for a resource and other project-related technical activities. They are also responsible for project delivery management. One of the prime tasks of a project engineer is to ensure effective and efficient completion of projects by the project plans.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a mechanical engineer  

A project managerially involved in all the tasks from the start until the project is delivered successfully. Hence, their tasks are diverse. Some of the tasks that are part and parcel of a project engineer are listed below:

• Developing project objectives
• Creating project specifications for all the necessary tools and equipment.
• Developing an effective and efficient project framework to monitor the project's Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). They are also responsible for maintaining this framework.
• Developing effective and efficient methods and practices by collaborating with the senior engineers.
• Managing the entire project data
• Formulating achievable parameters for every project in hand
• Documenting the progress of the project.
• Assigning responsibilities to the project team
• Finding pain-points of the project and resolving them
• Controlling the project constraints, i.e., time, resources, budget, quality.

Skills you will need: Since a project engineer is responsible for the success of a project, they should possess multiple skills mentioned below:

• Requirements Analysis
• Project designing skills
• Project management
• Understanding the technical aspects of the project
• Methods and procedures of manufacturing
• Techniques to improve the manufacturing processes
• Documentation skills
• MATLAB
• CAD/CAM for developing circuit designs
• Solidworks

Expected Annual Salary:  A project manager can expect around $68,000 yearly, on average. A fresher entering this field is expected to earn around $54,000 per annum. At the same time, a senior project engineer can be expected to get compensated around $98,000.

Best colleges to target to get this role: According to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), the following top 20 colleges offer mechanical engineering degrees that will help you get this role: 

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
2. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
3. University of California in Berkeley, CA
4. California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA
5. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA
6. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
7. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
8. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
9. University of California--San Diego (Jacobs) in La Jolla, CA
10. The University of Illinois in Urbana, IL
11. Texas A&M University in College Station, TX
12. Cornell University in Ithaca, NY
13. University of Southern California (Viterbi) in Los Angeles, CA
14. University of Texas (Cockrell) in Austin, TX
15. Columbia University (Fu Foundation) in New York, NY
16. University of California (Samueli) in Los Angeles, CA
17. Johns Hopkins University (Whiting) in Baltimore, MD
18. University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA
19. Northwestern University (McCormick)in Evanston, IL
20. The University of Maryland in College Park, MD                                                              

3- Manufacturing Engineer: Manufacturing engineers focus on designing, developing, and operating integrated production systems to achieve high-quality and economically competitive products. These systems may include material handling equipment, machine tools, robots, or even computers or computer networks. 

Mechanical engineers apply engineering principles to improve the manufacturing processes of various commodities. They focus on employing techniques that:

• minimise production costs
• improve the quality of goods 
• Use sustainable manufacturing methods, thereby reducing the negative impact of manufacturing processes on the environment.

Manufacturing engineers have access to a large variety of manufacturing industries, so they can aim to work in multiple sectors like:

• Biotechnology
• Food and drinks
• Oil refinery
• Pharmaceuticals
• Plastics
• Aerospace
• Automation
• Clothing
• Plant and machinery manufacturing.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a manufacturing engineer 

As part of their job, Manufacturing Engineers monitor quality control, identify errors, provide, and suggest improvements, oversee the procurement of materials involved in the production, and coordinate with various teams and departments within the company. Some other responsibilities carried out by manufacturing engineers include:

• Creating a lean manufacturing environment by applying six sigma principles.
• Providing statistical process control, analysis support, and process capability studies to engineering and manufacturing departments.
• Working on six sigma projects in teams.
• Supervise engineering activities from inception to production for aerospace, OEM industrial and military government new product development programs, and automotive.
• Installing KANBAN systems for assembling components of machinery.
• Assisting in the implementation of KANBAN and KAIZEN programs in manufacturing processes.
• Developing equipment specifications to optimise overall equipment effectiveness.
• Leading several independent, cross-functional projects to improve the quality of goods manufactured, reduce their cost, and ensure sustainable manufacturing processes are supported.

Skills you will need: Manufacturing engineers must possess an ideal combination of several hard skills and analytical skills. Some of the most demanded skills manufacturing engineers must have been listed below:

• CAD (Computer-aided design)
• Solidworks
• Lean Six Sigma manufacturing practices
• Project management skills
• CNC (Computer Numerical Control)
• Process control
• Troubleshooting
• Product designing
• Technical support 
• Knowledge of Quality standards.

Expected Annual Salary: Manufacturing engineers can expect an average annual salary of $70,063. Freshers in this field can expect around $55,000 per annum. At the same time, experienced manufacturing engineers can expect around $88,000 yearly.

Best colleges to target to get this role: According to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), the following top 20 colleges offer manufacturing/industrial engineering degrees that will help you get this role:

1. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
2. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
3. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
4. Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA
5. Cornell University in Ithaca, NY
6. Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA
7. University of California in Berkeley, CA
8. University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI
9. Northwestern University in Evanston, IL
10. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
11. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
12. University of Illinois in Champaign, IL
13. California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA
14. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA
15. Clemson University in Clemson, SC
16. Columbia University in New York, NY
17. Iowa State University of Science and Technology in Ames, IA
18. North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC
19. Ohio State University in Columbus, OH
20. Texas A&M University in College Station,

4- Automation Engineer:  Automation engineers create systems that reduce human efforts. They are behind improving manufacturing processes and computer systems, where human efforts can be automated. They are programming languages experts who develop automation systems to ensure smooth flow of operations and overlook quality assurance processes.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of an automation engineer 

Depending on the nature of an automation engineer's work undertaken (working with machines or on computer programming), their job responsibilities might vary. However, some of the typical job responsibilities are listed below:

• Regularly discussing system requirements with the clients.
• Conducting research and designing automation technology.
• Creating and establishing a solid connection between information inputs, controllers, and outputs.
• Developing systems to ensure effective monitoring and quality assurance processes.
• Effectively handling defects or errors in the technology being used.
• Improving the efficiency of automation systems, thereby reducing human efforts.

Skills you will need: To be successful, an automation engineer must possess the following skills:

• Python programming language.
• Knowledge of creating test scripts for validating the quality of the software/ application being tested.
• PLC Control systems.
• Human-machine interface (HMI) dashboarding.
• Java programming language.
• Troubleshooting control systems to ensure safety and efficiency of mechanical equipment operations.
• C++ programming language.
• Jenkins, an open-source automation server.
• Designing and implementing GUI(Graphical user interface) tool.
• Functional knowledge of Linux operating systems.
• Knowledge of SCADA (Supervisory control and data acquisition)
• Knowledge of implementing quality assurance.
• AutoCAD.

Expected Annual Salary: On average, an automation engineer can expect an annual salary of $82,000. An entry-level automation engineer can earn around $63,000 per annum. At the same time, an experienced automation engineer can earn around $1,08,000 every year.

Best colleges to target to get this role: According to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), the following top 20 colleges offer industrial/manufacturing/systems engineering degrees that will help you get this role:

1. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
2. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
3. University of California in Berkeley, CA
4. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
5. Cornell University in Ithaca, NY
6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
7. Northwestern University (McCormick) in Evanston, IL
8. University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI
9. Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA
10. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
11. Columbia University (Fu Foundation) in New York, NY
12. Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA
13. Air Force Institute of Technology 1 in Wright Patterson AFB, OH
14. Arizona State University (Fulton) in Tempe, AZ
15. Auburn University (Ginn) in Auburn, AL
16. Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson) in Binghamton, NY
17. Boston University in Boston, MA
18. Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH
19. Clemson University in Clemson, SC
20. Colorado State University (Scott) in Fort Collins, CO

5- Equipment Engineer: Equipment engineers apply a combination of skills required for designing, maintaining, and enhancing electrical, mechanical and computer devices. 

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of an equipment engineer 

Equipment engineers are responsible for the following tasks:

• Developing and designing electronic and mechanical devices.
• Analysing and improving pre-existing systems.
• Creating customised systems catering to the needs of the customers/end-users.
• Installing and conducting regular maintenance procedures.
• Translating all the essential information relating to the ISO regulations of various machines.
• Assisting in troubleshooting and repairing CVD and PVD systems.
• Installing, aligning, and calibrating technical support on equipment automation robotics systems.
• Conducting SPC (statistical process control) to identify defects in the systems.
• Repairing and maintaining equipment in various departments.

Skills you will need:  Equipment engineers are required to possess the following skills:

• Knowledge about semi-conductors.
• Project management skills.
• CAD
• Process engineering
• Knowledge of equipment maintenance procedures
• Solid knowledge about API and ISO standards.
• PLC

Expected Annual Salary: An equipment engineer can expect an average yearly pay of around $86,000. A fresher in this field can earn up to $63,000 per annum. At the same time, an experienced equipment engineer can expect to draw an average annual salary of $1,15,000.

Best colleges to target to get this role: According to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), the following top 20 colleges offer mechanical engineering degrees that will help you get this role:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
2. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
3. California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA
4. University of California in Berkeley, CA
5. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
6. University of Illinois in Urbana, IL
7. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
8. University in Ithaca, NY
9. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
10. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA
11. Princeton University in Princeton, NJ
12. University of Texas in Austin, TX
13. Arizona State University (Fulton) in Tempe, AZ
14. Auburn University (Ginn) in Auburn, AL
15. Baylor University in Waco, TX
16. Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson) in Binghamton, NY
17. Boston University in Boston, MA
18. Brigham Young University in Provo, UT
19. Brown University in Providence, RI
20. California State University in Long Beach, CA

6- Robotics Engineer: Robotics engineers design prototypes, build, and test applications and autonomous machines(robots) that replicate human actions. They can work in mining, manufacturing, automotive, services, and many more. Robots created by robotics engineers are designed to perform repetitive and hazardous jobs. Robotics engineers are also involved in extensive research for finding the most cost-efficient and sustainable processes to produce robotic systems.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a robotics engineer 

Robotics engineers are majorly responsible for conducting research in new robotics fields like nanotechnology, designing prototypes and processes to build autonomous machines, and testing robotics systems. Some of the other tasks carried out by robotics engineers are listed below:

• Managing client presentations about robotics design configuration, welding/cutting, and assembling robotics programs and systems.
• Managing Jenkins security by providing unique access to authorised developers.
• Developing automated test benches using C++ and MATLAB programming languages.
• Creating design documentation and mechanical engineering support using AutoCAD software.
• Providing engineering support to robotics arm operations for NASA space shuttle mission.
• Calibrating, adjusting, modifying, installing, testing, and maintaining PLC-based systems.
• Programming HMI systems to enhance productivity.

Skills you will need: To enter the field of robotics engineering, you must possess the following skills:

• Prior experience in the field of robotics or similar fields.
• Well equipped with computer programming languages, applied physics, mechanics.
• Knowledge of cost-effective, efficient, productivity optimising techniques.
• Brilliant knowledge of CAD/CAM software. 
• Analytical mindset.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor’s/and master’s degree in engineering, computer science, or related field.

Expected Annual Salary:  Robotics engineers can earn around $78,000 yearly, on average. An entry-level professional in this field can earn around $57,000 per year. An experienced robotics engineer can earn around $1,05,000 per annum.

Best colleges to target to get this role: People aspiring to become robotics engineers can target any of these top 14 universities in the USA for pursuing their master’s degree in the field of robotics engineering:

1. University of Pennsylvania
2. University of Michigan
3. Northwestern University
4. New York University
5. Carnegie Mellon University
6. Georgia Institute of Technology
7. University of Wisconsin Madison
8. Boston University
9. Washington University in St. Louis
10. University of Southern California
11. University at Buffalo
12. Northeastern University
13. Drexel University
14. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

7- Mining Engineer: Mining engineers are involved in planning, evaluating, and overlooking the construction of mines. They provide specifications regarding various processes, equipment utilisation, and labour required for extracting mineral ores from the earth.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a mining engineer: A mining engineer is involved in the following tasks:

• Performing sub-surface surveys for identifying resources of potential mining development sites.
• Evaluating the profitability of mining activities by investigating mineral deposits and working with economists and geologists.
• Devising the most suitable mining method for extracting minerals.
• Designing layout for the mine.
• Devising mineral and mining treatment equipment and machines.
• Planning, staffing, and coordinating the employees of the mine.
• Developing, Implementing, and coordinating mine safety programs.
• Obtaining access to roads, water, and power supplies by collaborating with geologists and other engineers.
• Reinstating mine sites to their original state after the mining operations have been performed.

Skills you will need:  Skills you will require to be a mining engineer are listed below:

• Mine planning
• Knowledge of Kaizen (Continuous improvement) techniques.
• Project management skills.
• Expert knowledge of safety standards to be followed in mining processes.
• Technical reporting skills.
• Range planning 
• CAD software knowledge.

Expected Annual Salary: On average, a mining engineer can expect around $89,000 per year. An entry-level mining engineer can expect to start with an annual salary of $65,000. With experience in this field, mining engineers can earn up to $1,23,000.

Best colleges to target to get this role: To enter the field of mining engineering, you would require a bachelor’s degree in engineering, post which you can pursue certified courses in geology, mining operation, mine design, metallurgy, and environmental reclamation. First, have a look at the following top 20 best engineering schools, according to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), that will help you get this role:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
2. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
3. University of California in Berkeley, CA
4. California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA
5. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA
6. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
7. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
8. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
9. University of California--San Diego (Jacobs) in La Jolla, CA
10. The University of Illinois in Urbana, IL
11. Texas A&M University in College Station, TX
12. Cornell University in Ithaca, NY
13. University of Southern California (Viterbi) in Los Angeles, CA
14. University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell) in Austin, TX
15. Columbia University (Fu Foundation) in New York, NY
16. The University of California in Los Angeles, CA
17. Johns Hopkins University (Whiting) in Baltimore, MD
18. University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA
19. Northwestern University (McCormick) in Evanston, IL
20. The University of Maryland in College Park, MD

8- Marine Engineer: Marine engineers research, develop, and construct new marine vessels and their components. They supervise all the aspects of the designing process for mechanical, electrical, and structural systems.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a marine engineer: Marine engineers have specialised knowledge for designing the infrastructure of marine vessels. These marine vessels are constructed exclusively for naval ships, sailboats, cruise ships, tankers, and submarines. Some of the tasks carried out by marine engineers include:

• Managing the rig’s maintenance and inventory control systems through RMS and ICS programs.
• Utilising and maintaining GPS, dive beacons, and sonar equipment ensures their safety and cost-effective positioning.
• Tracing several ship systems like AFFF, lube oil, propulsion plant, and HVAC.
• Authorising procedures necessary for performing 10 CFR 50.59 licensing evaluations.
• Performing moisture tests and hull soundings.
• Carrying out risk analysis using tools such as HAZOP, FMEA.
• Preparing machinery layouts using AutoCAD.

Skills you will need: Skills required by a marine engineer include:

• AutoCAD
• Expert knowledge of electrical systems
• HVAC systems
• Leadership skills
• Strong math and problem-solving skills

Expected Annual Salary: A marine engineer can expect an average annual salary of $84,000. At an entry-level, a marine engineer can earn up to $57,000 yearly. An experienced marine engineer can earn around $1,23,000 per annum.

Best colleges to target to get this role: Top 10 universities in the USA you target to get this role are:

1. Massachusetts Maritime Academy
2. Maine Maritime Academy
3. The United States Merchant Marine Academy
4. Texas A&M University - College Station
5. SUNY Maritime College
6. The United States Naval Academy
7. University of New Orleans
8. Webb Institute
9. The United States Coast Guard Academy
10. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

9- Mechanical Design Engineer: Mechanical design engineers design mechanical systems and devices using the fundamental principles of physics and engineering.

Typical tasks involved in the daily routine of a Mechanical Design engineer:

Some of the tasks undertaken by a mechanical design engineer include:

• Managing installation and troubleshooting of documents for ultra-precision CNC grinding machines.
• Performing structural analysis on critical parts and components using ANSYS and Pro-Mechanica.
• Designing preliminary gas insulation substation layout using AutoCAD.
• Creating 3D drawings of machinery in AutoCAD.
• Generating 3D models, assembly, and manufacturing drawings using PTC CREO.
• Visiting construction sites/ factories to test equipment quality.
• Creating prototypes and layouts of systems.
• Generating progress reports of fellow engineers.
• Coordinating with suppliers, contractors, and clients.

Skills you will need: Skills required by a Mechanical design engineer include:

• AutoCAD
• Rhino
• Solidworks
• Analytical skills
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving 
• Critical thinking
• Time management skills
• Organisational skills
• Creativity
• Listening skills
• Math skills.

Expected Annual Salary: A mechanical design engineer can expect around $72,000 per annum, on average. A mechanical design engineer can earn up to $57,000 yearly at an entry level. An experienced mechanical design engineer can earn around $91,000 per annum.

Best colleges to target to get this role: According to the US News and World Report rankings (2021), the following top 20 colleges offer mechanical engineering degrees that will help you get this role:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA
2. Stanford University in Stanford, CA
3. California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA
4. University of California in Berkeley, CA
5. Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA
6. University of Illinois in Urbana, IL
7. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
8. Cornell University in Ithaca, NY
9. Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
10. Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA
11. Princeton University in Princeton, NJ
12. University of Texas in Austin, TX
13. Arizona State University (Fulton) in Tempe, AZ
14. Auburn University (Ginn) in Auburn, AL
15. Baylor University in Waco, TX
16. Binghamton University--SUNY (Watson) in Binghamton, NY
17. Boston University in Boston, MA
18. Brigham Young University in Provo, UT
19. Brown University in Providence, RI
20. California State University in Long Beach, CA

Top companies that are hiring mechanical engineers

1) HCL America:

It’s been more than 30 years that HCL has contributed to the technological advancement and growth of the USA. HCL first commenced its operations in the heart of Silicon Valley, in the USA. HCL considers its employees as their most important asset. HCL is a powerhouse for innovations, especially in design thinking, blockchain, cybersecurity, cloud-native, and artificial intelligence.

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join:

• Great work-life balance
• Favourable work environment
• Flexi-working hours
• Amicable work colleagues

USP of the company: HCL is without any doubt world’s leading IT services company. Employees are valued at this organisation. Starting your career at HCL will surely make you stand from the crowd.

College placements:

2) Altair product Design:

Altair is a global software tech company that aims at providing product engineering services. People at Altair thrive with the philosophy of 'Simulation-driven Design.' This company applies optimisation technologies at the inception stage of the design process and allows customers to inform design direction right from the start. This gives a personalised touch to every design process created at Altair. 

Positions for which they hire:

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join: 

• Favourable work-life balance.
• Good work culture.
• Productive and supportive work environment.

USP of the company: Altair is famous for its following unique services:

• Predictive simulation to accurately predict the real-world performance of the design process at an early stage to reduce risks.
• Optimising the performance of design processes, thereby reducing the costs of clients’ products.
• Identifying inefficiencies in the simulation process through innovation reduces the time to market.

College placements:

3) Apple:

Apple needs no introduction!! This multinational giant provides specialised products like smartphones, Apple watches, Mac books, and other electronic devices. It is one of the big five American IT companies.  

Positions for which they hire:

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join: Apple is best-known for the following reasons that will compel you to join the company:

• Great work-life balance.
• Good work culture.
• Well-known brand.
• Great salary structures.
• Career growth prospects.

USP of the company: Apple is known for:

• User-friendly products.
• Reliability.
• Innovation.
• Creativity.

4) Rivian Automotive: 

Rivian Automotive, Inc. is an electric vehicle manufacturer and automotive company situated in California, USA. They produce premium electric SUVs (sport utility vehicles) and pick-up trucks.

Positions for which they hire:

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join: Rivian Automotive Inc. offers multiple employee friendly benefits listed below:

• Relaxed work environment
• Collaborative workforce.
• Performance-based incentives.

USP of the company: Four fundamental values of Rivian automotive serve as its USP:

• Innovation
• Adventure
• Making the world a better place.
• Inspiring and inviting to all.

5) L&T Technology Services: 

L&T Technology Services Limited (LTTS) is a global leader in Engineering and Research and development services. They are known for innovations- World’s first Autonomous Welding Robot, Solar ‘Connectivity’ Drone, and the Smartest Campus in the World.

Positions for which they hire:

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join: L & T Technology Services is famous for the following features, which is why you should join the company:

• Innovation-driven culture
• Wellness perks include work from anywhere policy, employee-friendly practices.
• Healthy work-life balance.
• Flexibility and freedom to work on new projects, research works, and innovation.

USP of the company: L & T Technology services is constantly evolving as an innovation king in many fields. The USP of the company can be summed up by the four pillars of transformation inspired by the company:

• Digital engineering: L & T Technology services help design new generation intelligent products and services for their customers.
• Perceptual engineering: By utilising the fundamental principles of Artificial Intelligence, L & T Technology services have enabled a ‘human edge’ in machines. Machines at L & T Technology services are equipped with five human senses, i.e., touch, smell, sound, taste, and sight. This enables machines to think and learn like a human.
• Smart Manufacturing and operations: They have specialised in aligning and integrating customers’ manufacturing processes and evolving technology landscape. They have built intelligent machines using technologies like Human Machine Interface, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Image and Voice Processing, Neural Networks, Virtual Reality, Sensor Technology, and Collaborative Robotics.
• 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐞𝐬:  L & T Technology services constantly invest in the domain of embedded technologies, eco-friendly technologies, and enhanced security solutions.

6) FCA US:

FCA stands for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. It was an Italian American multinational company primarily concerned with manufacturing automobiles, commercial vehicles, auto parts, and production systems. FCA announced its merger with PSA Group (50-50 all stock basis) on 31st October 2019.

Positions for which they hire:

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join: FCA is well-known among people for the following things:

• Motor Citizens volunteer program encourages FCA employees to spend around 18 hours of paid time off to volunteer for individual and company-sponsored programs, like disaster relief efforts, mentoring, cleaning up streams and rivers, packaging and delivering food and other supplies to those in need.
• Leadership development programs to enrich the professional skills of young professionals.
• Integrated learning programs (online or offline) are offered to the employees to provide coaching, networking, and on-the-job training tailored to complement their career and business goals.
• Tuition reimbursement programs allow employees to complete their further studies at accredited colleges and universities.

USP of the company: 

• Dedicated community service, thereby improving the quality of lives of people.
• FCA foundation is a charitable branch of FCA USA, which aims at investing funds in US-based charitable organisations. 
• Biodiversity conservation programs organised by the company serve towards environmental protection and conservation. 

7) Cyient:

Cyient provides engineering and technology solutions around the world. They develop a value chain facilitating design, building, operation, and maintaining products and services. Cyient provides specialised services in engineering, manufacturing, and digital technology. 

Positions for which they hire:

Average salaries offered to freshers’ vs experienced candidates:

Why should you join: Cyient provides the following benefits to its employees:

• Health insurance 
• Excellent employee retention; on average, an employee at Cyient stays for around 4.5 years.

USP of the company: Cyient is well-known for the following things:

• Three-step Business excellence approach: Educate, Engage, and Evaluate are the three steps to business excellence. The company focuses on educating its employees on the latest process improvements, problem-solving tools, and methodologies. It then engages employees in various projects and business processes. Finally, the company evaluates the annual performance of delivery units and follows best benchmarking practices.
• Entirely digitised Quality Management Systems: Cyient PAL is the quality management system that is digitally powered with features that enable version control, traceability, process quality checks, automatic communication, internal quality audits.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR policies): The company is whole-heartedly engaged in CSR policies focusing on the areas of Digital literacy, quality education, social innovation, and community development.

Conclusion

Mechanical engineering is one of the vastest fields of engineering that involves the application of the principles and problem-solving techniques of engineering. Mechanical engineers constantly update their knowledge and skills through research, innovation, creative design and development, construction, control, management of products/devices to solve the problems faced by society. Overall, mechanical engineers can work in almost every sector that demands innovation, creation, and offering solutions to the problems faced by society in general. You can choose from a wide variety of mechanical engineering schools in the USA to pursue your dream to become a mechanical engineer. Many world-renowned companies are offering mechanical engineering jobs. So, go ahead and grab your opportunity to be a mechanical engineer!!!