Mechanical engineering is an extremely diverse discipline. It encompasses the design of small technical components through to the manufacturing of large scale plant machinery. The work ranges from research, development and design stages through to manufacture and installation
Almost all industries require the services of mechanical engineers, meaning job opportunities are good across sectors, including medicine, construction, power and manufacturing. Typically a person in this role will begin a project with an initial brief. This will then progress through design and development to testing, manufacture and implementation
The ability to work closely with professionals from within the engineering sector is essential. A mechanical engineer may also be required to handle budgets and time constraints, and must have an excellent understanding of a range of design techniques and disciplines
A degree or similar qualification in mechanical engineering or a related engineering subject is usually a prerequisite. Training will then continue on the job. A graduate can expect to earn up to £22,000 per year, rising with additional training and experience.

• Communication
• Resolving problems
• Managing and prioritising assignments
• Working with teams
• Organisation and planning
• Information technology
• People management
• Networking
• Negotiating
• Stress management
• Being analytical and precise

People who are interested in Engineering positions should specialise in any of the following areas:
•    Aeronautical Engineering
•    Agricultural Engineering
•    Computer-Aided Engineering
•    Engineering Science
•    Manufacturing Engineering
•    Nuclear Engineering
•    Mechanical Engineering
Educational institutions offer various certifications. These include GCE, NVQ, SVQ, HNC, HND, or the BTEC qualifications. Mechanical Engineers are also able to join professional associations such as the Engineering Council (ECUK) as Professional Engineers, Incorporated Engineers (IEng) or Chartered Engineers (CEng). Masters and Post Graduate qualifications are also very valuable.