Overview
Mechanical engineers research, design and develop machinery and systems for heating, ventilating and air conditioning, power generation, transportation, processing and manufacturing. They also perform duties related to the evaluation, installation, operation and maintenance of mechanical systems. They are employed by consulting firms, by power-generating utilities and in a wide range of manufacturing, processing and transportation industries, or they may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation and performance of mechanisms, components and systems
Plan and manage projects, and prepare material, cost and timing estimates, reports and design specifications for machinery and systems
Design power plants, machines, components, tools, fixtures and equipment
Analyze dynamics and vibrations of mechanical systems and structures
Supervise and inspect the installation, modification and commissioning of mechanical systems at construction sites or in industrial facilities
Develop maintenance standards, schedules and programs and provide guidance to industrial maintenance crews
Investigate mechanical failures or unexpected maintenance problems
Prepare contract documents and evaluate tenders for industrial construction or maintenance
Supervise technicians, technologists and other engineers and review and approve designs, calculations and cost estimates.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$62,568
$90,244
$140,111
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
1,270expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
A master's degree or doctorate in a related engineering discipline may be required.
Licensing by a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers is required to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practise as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
Engineers are eligible for registration following graduation from an accredited educational program, and after three or four years of supervised work experience in engineering and passing a professional practice examination.
Additional information
There is considerable mobility between mechanical engineering specializations at the less senior levels.
Supervisory and senior positions in this unit group require experience.
Mechanical engineers work closely with civil, electrical, aerospace, chemical, industrial and other engineers, and mobility is possible between some fields of specialization in these disciplines.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Mechanical engineers in B.C.
- Engineers and Geoscientists BC Registration - Mechanical Engineers
Engineers and Geoscientists BC Registration - Mechanical Engineers
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To practice as a mechanical engineer in B.C., you must register with Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. Eligibility is achieved through graduation from an accredited program, 4 years of work experience as an Engineer-In-Training, and successful completion of the National Professional Practice Examination.
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.