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Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Mechanical engineers apply the principles of physics and mathematics to design, develop, and maintain mechanical systems. This can include anything from engines and machinery to heating systems and manufacturing equipment. In the UK, mechanical engineers often work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. The role involves problem-solving, creating technical drawings, testing prototypes, and improving existing systems. Mechanical engineers may work in offices, laboratories, or on factory floors, and often collaborate with other engineers and professionals to deliver projects safely and efficiently.

Mechanical Engineer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Mechanical engineers in the UK typically earn between £27,000 and £50,000 per year, depending on experience.

Job Opportunities

There were over 117,000 people employed as mechanical engineers in the UK as of 2023.

Entry Requirements

Most mechanical engineers hold a degree in mechanical engineering or a related subject, and many are registered with a professional body such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

🚀 Careers in this path

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Automotive Design Engineer

Specialises in designing and developing new vehicles or vehicle systems, such as engines or safety features, for the automotive industry.

Aerospace Mechanical Engineer

Focuses on creating and improving mechanical components and systems for aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites.

Building Services Engineer

Works on the mechanical aspects of buildings, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency.

Build a Strong Academic Foundation

Achieve Good GCSEs

Focus on achieving strong grades in Maths, Science, and Technology subjects at GCSE level.

Mathematics and physics are essential for a career in mechanical engineering. Aim for at least a grade 6 or above in these subjects. Consider taking Design and Technology or Computer Science if available, as these can help develop relevant skills and knowledge.

Take Relevant A Levels or Equivalent

Study A Levels in Maths and Physics, and consider an additional science or engineering-related subject.

Most university mechanical engineering courses require A Levels in Maths and Physics. Chemistry, Further Maths, or Computer Science can also be beneficial. Alternatively, you can study a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering if you prefer a vocational route.

Gain Higher Education or Training

Complete a Degree or Apprenticeship

Apply for a recognised mechanical engineering degree programme or a higher/degree apprenticeship.

A BEng or MEng in Mechanical Engineering is the most common route. Accredited courses by institutions such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) are highly valued. Alternatively, a degree apprenticeship allows you to work and study at the same time, gaining practical experience while earning a qualification.

Participate in Work Experience or Placements

Gain practical experience through internships or industrial placements.

Many degree programmes offer a sandwich year in industry or summer internships. This hands-on experience is invaluable for learning workplace skills and making industry contacts, and it enhances your CV when applying for graduate roles.

Start Your Professional Career

Apply for Graduate Roles

Look for graduate mechanical engineering positions or schemes with engineering firms.

Large companies often run graduate schemes that provide structured training and rotation through different departments. Smaller companies may offer more specialised roles. Use job boards, company websites, and university careers services to find opportunities.

Work Towards Professional Registration

Begin working towards becoming a Chartered or Incorporated Engineer.

As you gain experience, you can apply for professional registration with the IMechE. This involves demonstrating your competence and commitment through a combination of work experience, professional development, and assessment. Chartered status is highly respected and can enhance your career prospects.

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🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Mechanical Engineer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

Both Mechanical Engineer and Aerospace Engineer require advanced knowledge of mechanics, materials, and design principles to develop and test complex systems. They share similar core qualifications in engineering principles, with Aerospace Engineers specialising in aircraft and spacecraft, making it the closest match in terms of technical skills and educational background.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

University

You could do a degree in aerospace engineering, avionics, or a subject like:

  • electrical or electronic engineering
  • mechanical engineering
  • manufacturing or product engineering
  • physics or applied physics
  • software engineering or mathematics

Postgraduate study

You may be able to do a master's degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering if you've studied for a degree in a related subject, such as engineering.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

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College

You could do A levels, a higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) in engineering before applying for a trainee technician job with an aerospace company.

Subjects include:

  • maths, physics and design and technology
  • mechanical engineering
  • aeronautical engineering
  • electrical engineering

You would then take further training to become a fully qualified engineer.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

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Apprenticeship

You could do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship to begin your career in the aerospace industry. Apprenticeships include:

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Aerospace Software Engineer
  • Electro-Mechanical Engineer
  • Materials Science Technologist

You'll combine workplace learning with study for a degree at university.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

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Work

You might be able to join a company as an aerospace engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.

Direct Application

You can apply for aerospace engineering jobs if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, you might have worked in mechanical, electrical or electronics engineering.

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Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Royal Aeronautical Society for professional development, career resources and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about working in aerospace engineering from Careers in Aerospace.

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