Mechanical Engineer

I. JOB SUMMARY

Main Topic: Human Geography
Secondary Topic: Environment and Society

Overview: Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal devices, including tools, engines, and machines, and is one of the broadest engineering fields. Mechanical engineers design and oversee the manufacture of many products ranging from medical devices to new batteries. Mechanical engineers design power-producing machines, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines, as well as power-using machines, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Mechanical engineers design other machines inside buildings, such as elevators and escalators. They also design material-handling systems, such as conveyor systems and automated transfer stations. They can be involved with the design of robots, cell phone components, and other high-tech items. Like other engineers, mechanical engineers use computers extensively. Mechanical engineers are routinely responsible for the integration of sensors, controllers, and machinery. Computer technology helps mechanical engineers create and analyze designs, run simulations and test how a machine is likely to work, interact with connected systems, and generate specifications for parts.

Geographers at work: Industrial geographer, economic geographer, environmental geographers, human geographers

Recommended College Courses: Economic geography, industrial geography, environmental geography, human geography, natural resource use and management

Skills: Understanding of economics, finance, markets, logistics, and labor, as well as how product design is influenced by geography (people and places); computer and database systems; critical thinking; teamwork

Occupation Group: Architecture and Engineering

Learn more about Mechanical Engineers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm#tab-1