Job description for a Mechanical Design Engineer

Looking for a Mechanical Design Engineering job?

If you already know everything you need to know and want to look at what opportunities are available then get in touch with us and we can help you find your next Mechanical Design Engineering job.

If you’re considering a career in Mechanical Design Engineering, an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer looking for your next role or an employer in search of a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer professional to join your team – we’ve answered a few key questions below…

What is a Mechanical Design Engineer?

Mechanical Design Engineers are professionals who have the ability to apply engineering principles, physics and materials science for the analysis, design, installation and maintenance of mechanical systems.

Mechanical Design Engineers create solutions, which can range from small component designs to large-scale systems. More commonly you would be working on Water systems, Gas systems, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning systems (HVAC).

Mechanical Design Engineers have the opportunity to work on all stages of a system, from the early research, development and design all the way through to the installation and final commissioning.

What are the typical duties and activities for a Mechanical Design Engineer?

From company to company the job description of a Mechanical Design Engineer can vary, however typical duties and activities undertaken include:

• Designing and implementing systems to improve efficiency and sustainability

• Solving complex problems

• Undertaking research

• Testing and measuring the performance of systems

• Keeping up to date with the latest building regulations

• Liaising with suppliers, clients, architects and contractors

• Analysing and interpreting data and information

• Recommending modifications for systems

• Creating reports and documentation

• Going out on site

What are the key skills required to be a successful Mechanical Design Engineer?

A Mechanical Design Engineer is an essential role in designing systems and to be successful in this role a range of skills are required, including:

• Excellent problem solving skills

• IT literate

• Good grasp of mathematics

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Highly organized

• Strong initiative

• Decisiveness

• Team player with ability to work on your own

What qualifications are needed and what are the training options for a Mechanical Design Engineer?

University courses in Mechanical Engineering are available in a lot of universities and colleges, which typically take up to 4-5 years to complete. However a Building Services degree is also available and can take only 3 years. A Mechanical Design Engineer is a highly technical role, so a high level of education is essential.

Below is a list of qualifications that an employer would possibly look for in a Mechanical Design Engineer:

• HND Mechanical Engineering

• BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

• BSc Building Services Engineering

• MEng Mechanical Engineering

As a part of your professional development, becoming a member of The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and becoming Chartered or even becoming a member of The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) will all help you to become a recognised engineer and will help with your career progression and opportunities.

These accreditations require monthly subscriptions all of which can be funded by your employer and we suggest you find a company that will support you.

Who employs Mechanical Design Engineers?

We focus on three types of employers who employ Mechanical Design Engineers across the UK, which include M&E Consultancies and Multi-Disciplinary Consultancies within construction industry. However, there are many great opportunities to work at main contractors within the construction industry as they also employ Mechanical Design Engineers.

Due to the growth the construction industry has experienced, the demand is high for skilled and qualified Mechanical Design Engineers. When considering potential employers the size of company should be taken in to account. There are many advantages for working for a small or large company.

Smaller companies can often give you a lot more exposure in a much shorter space of time. This will include more responsibility within projects. In comparison a larger company will often allow more opportunity to work on much larger and higher profile projects, as well as having a clear route for progression.

The key to choosing the right company for you is to understand what environment you work best in. It is also important to know that the employer can offer opportunity for development and clear career progression.

What is the average salary and benefits package offered for a Mechanical Design Engineer?

Due to the Construction industry being so large and varied salaries can vary greatly. On top of this, location can also play a part in rates and salaries.

With construction experience and qualifications related to the profession, Mechanical Design Engineers could see salaries ranging from £30,000 to £50,000 with Senior Mechanical Design Engineers salaries ranging from £40,000 to £60,000 per annum. This is depending on experience, which will include previous employers and notable previous projects.

Location does play a part in salaries, in certain parts of the UK Mechanical Design Engineers can earn more than other parts. London does consistently offer higher salaries and rates, however we have seen similar figures across the UK.

All companies offer different benefits packages to permanent employees, this can range from car or car allowances, pension scheme and private medical insurance (PMI) to flexible hours, ride to work schemes and travel allowances.

Are you looking for a Mechanical Design Engineering job?

If you are looking for your next Mechanical Design Engineering role then get in touch with us and we can help you find the perfect role.

Are you looking to recruit a Mechanical Design Engineer?

If you’re an employer with a Mechanical Design Engineer role to fill, simply get in touch with us to discuss you requirements and let’s get to work on finding you the perfect candidate!