Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile and in-demand engineering fields today, playing a critical role in everything from robotics and manufacturing to energy and medical device innovation. Its broad applications and steady demand, with an average of 9,800 openings for mechanical engineers projected each year between 2023 and 2033, make it an appealing path for students who enjoy problem-solving, creativity, and hands-on design.
Earning a Mechanical Engineering bachelor’s degree opens the door to a wide range of job opportunities and builds a foundation for a stable and rewarding career. This mechanical engineering salary information guide takes a closer look at key factors that can influence your earning potential and career options, as well as the financial outlook, to help you make an informed decision.
Factors that influence Mechanical Engineering salaries
Several factors influence the earnings of individuals in the mechanical engineering field throughout their careers.
Industry
Mechanical engineers work in a range of industries, each with its own pay scale. Some industries in which you could work include aerospace, automation, energy and sustainability, HVAC, manufacturing, mechanical design, packaging, and tooling.
Location
Location plays a major role in mechanical engineering salary differences. For example, while Mechanical Engineering professionals working in New Mexico, the District of Columbia, California, Massachusetts, and Louisiana received the highest annual mean wage in 2023, the top-paying metropolitan areas for Mechanical Engineering professionals include San Jose, San Francisco, Albuquerque, Santa Barbara, and Baton Rouge. Make sure you consider the salary and cost of living balance when analyzing salaries by location, so you can maximize the benefits of the position.
Experience and education
Engineers’ experience and education are also essential factors in the salary you will receive. Professionals with cooperative education or internship experience during college often get better-paying jobs. Pursuing a Mechanical Engineering MS or choosing a specialization such as robotics, mechatronics, manufacturing, and automotive engineering can also lead to higher-paying roles.
Certifications
Professional certifications in mechanical engineering can also significantly boost your earning potential. Some of these certifications include:
- A Professional Engineer (PE) license symbolizes a high level of competency in the profession. It is essential for those taking legal responsibility for engineering work, advancing their career, and enhancing their professional credibility.
- The Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) credential validates an individual’s comprehensive knowledge and experience in manufacturing processes, technology, and systems. This certification is designed for seasoned engineers requiring at least eight years of experience.
- The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification validates a professional’s expertise in project management. Focuses on preparing students with the skills to lead and direct projects effectively.
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Mechanical Engineering jobs and salaries
Students who earn a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering have access to a wide variety of career paths, many of which offer competitive salaries and long-term stability. Below are some of the most common roles for professionals with a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s degree, along with details on what each job entails and the mechanical engineering salary information.
Mechanical engineer
Mechanical engineers, in their purest form, design, develop, build, and maintain mechanical systems across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, robotics, and manufacturing. They identify problems with machinery, conduct experiments to improve product designs, and utilize CAD technology to create product designs.
The median annual salary for mechanical engineers is $102,320, with entry-level professionals earning close to $68,740 and highly experienced engineers earning more than $161,240. This is one of the most direct and popular paths for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Industrial engineer
Industrial engineers focus on improving manufacturing processes to increase productivity, integrating automation, and holding high-quality standards, striving to minimize waste and optimize production processes. They often work in manufacturing, logistics, or service industries, where they review current production schedules and processes to identify areas for improvement. They also design and test systems for managing production.
The median annual salary for industrial engineers is $101,140, with entry-level positions starting around $70,000. Meanwhile, the top 10% of employees earn more than $157,140 annually.
Materials engineer
Materials engineers research and develop innovative products with unique capabilities and qualities to improve durability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, playing an essential role in what we use every day. Working with metals, polymers, and composites across multiple industries, materials engineers must ensure materials meet both performance and safety standards.
The median annual salary for materials engineers is $108,310, with salaries ranging from $68,040 at the low end to over $172,000 for those with specialized experience or leadership roles.
Patent attorney
While the patent attorney role does require additional legal education after completing a bachelor’s degree, it’s a high-paying path for graduates interested in intellectual property. Specializing in helping investors and companies secure and protect their intellectual property rights for their technological innovations, patent attorneys conduct patent searches, prepare and file applications, and advise clients on patent law and regulation.
The median salary for patent attorneys is $151,160, with entry-level earnings around $72,780, and the highest earners making more than $239,200. This is a great career option for engineers who also enjoy law and communication.
Technical sales engineer
Technical sales engineers use their engineering background to market and sell technical products and services. Their duties include consulting on product development, explaining product features to customers, and negotiating contract terms. They provide technical support and recommendations.
The median salary for technical sales engineers is $121,520, with entry-level roles starting at $70,580 and experienced professionals earning more than $202,670 per year, especially when including commissions.
Corporate investment banker
Corporate investment bankers advise companies on significant financial transactions, such as mergers, acquisitions, and capital raisings. Researching, analyzing, and recommending investments, corporate investment bankers build a relationship with clients to expand the investment banks’ business.
The median salary for corporate investment bankers is $78,140, but the top 10% of earners make over $215,210. Entry-level salaries typically start at $47,080. With the help of an MBA or additional finance training, this is a perfect job for someone interested in the financial side of engineering.
Explore Mechanical Engineering at University of Bridgeport
At University of Bridgeport, our Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering program is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career by teaching students the fundamentals of engineering, the basics of computer-aided design tools, and more.
University of Bridgeport’s BS in Mechanical Engineering curriculum prepares students for real-world challenges and new technologies through lab and project experiences. Students can pursue graduate studies or launch a successful career directly in all areas of mechanical engineering.
A BS in Mechanical Engineering is an investment in your future.