Mechanical Engineer
On this page
- What's it like to be a Mechanical Engineer?
- How to become a Mechanical Engineer
- Latest Mechanical Engineer jobs
- Top skills and experience for Mechanical Engineers
- Mechanical Engineer role reviews
What's it like to be a Mechanical Engineer?
A Mechanical Engineer (Mataaro Pūkaha) designs, builds and repairs mechanical tools and equipment. The types of equipment they work on may range from large industrial machinery and vehicles to devices used in healthcare. Mechanical Engineers usually need to know about relevant design software as well as safety codes and laws that regulate machinery of different kinds. Being a Mechanical Engineer is a practical, hands-on profession. You may work in an office, factory or workshop, or a combination of these settings.
Tasks and duties
- Analysing problems to determine project requirements.
- Designing and developing mechanical devices using computer-aided design.
- Creating and testing prototypes, and analysing the results.
- Modifying designs as needed, based on test results.
How to become a Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers typically need a Bachelor of Engineering, although on-the-job experience combined with a Diploma in Engineering can also lead to employment in this field.
Complete a relevant degree such as a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical). This typically takes three years of full-time study.
Consider applying to become a Chartered Professional Engineer once you have the qualifications and experience. This industry and government-backed mark of quality demonstrates that you meet a high level of competence as a Mechanical Engineer.
