Mechanical Design Engineer duties and responsibilities
A Mechanical Design Engineer performs a wide range of duties to ensure their products are of the highest quality. Some of their primary duties and responsibilities include:
- Analyzing and testing existing products to identify areas for improvement
- Collaborating with other Engineers, Designers, and Project Managers
- Writing detailed operational procedures
- Creating budgets and timelines for each project
- Ensuring all products meet safety regulations
- Researching other products in the market to generate ideas for improvement
- Developing and building prototypes to test their function
- Conducting user research to identify consumer needs
Mechanical Design Engineer skills and qualifications
Talented Mechanical Design Engineers have superior analytical skills that help them create unique and effective designs. Some other skills and qualifications you can look for in job applicants include:
- Exceptional problem-solving and math skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Proficiency in common design software, such as AutoCAD and 3D Warehouse
- Project management and leadership skills
- Product-focused creative thinking
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Organization and effective time management
- In-depth knowledge of industry design principles
Mechanical Design Engineer experience requirements
Most entry-level Mechanical Design Engineer applicants have prior engineering experience from internships and practical learning opportunities. Hiring a candidate who has prior experience can help you ensure they have a basic understanding of how to interpret design briefs and develop multiple iterations of a prototype. Candidates may also have a few years of relevant experience in design or product engineering through their Engineer-in-Training program. You can also look for candidates who have experience working with the software your company uses, such as AutoCAD.
Mechanical Design Engineer education and training requirements
Look for applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and have registered as an Engineer-in-Training with their province or territory’s regulatory board. Candidates who have completed this training have worked under a certified and experienced Engineer to gain hands-on experience in the field and build a portfolio.
While you may hire an Engineer-In-Training to work under the supervision of a licensed engineer, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have passed the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and earned their Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) credential. Mechanical Design Engineer candidates are legally required to have this credential to work independently.
Mechanical Design Engineer salary expectations
The average annual salary for a Mechanical Design Engineer in Canada is $59,975 per year. Actual salaries may vary based on a candidate’s work experience, level of education, and geographical location.
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