Mechanical Engineers

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Mechanical Engineers does

Mechanical engineers design, build, and test machines, engines, tools, and mechanical systems that solve real-world problems across industries. They work on everything from HVAC systems to robotics to consumer products.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a bachelor's degree. About 4 years.

Estimated cost of that path: ~$40,000. Estimated payback: ~2 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Civil Engineers — $100,840/yr
• Transportation Engineers — $100,840/yr
• Water/Wastewater Engineers — $100,840/yr
• Manufacturing Engineers — $102,440/yr
• Validation Engineers — $102,440/yr