Mechanical Engineers
(NOC 2132)
in All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information TechnologyMechanical 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. Mechanical engineers 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.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is a moderate sized occupation in Nova Scotia so some job opportunities may occur through turnover. The number employed in this occupation is expected to grow slightly over the next few years, which will likely provide some additional opportunities for employment. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Mechanical Engineers most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs are typically permanent positions. Also, a fair portion of the workforce is self-employed, so having the option to "work for yourself" may appeal to some individuals’ interests/motivations.
The median employment income for 71% of Mechanical Engineers who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $85,723. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$29.67
Minimum$46.63
Median$76.92
MaximumAnnual Pay
$21,249
Minimum$79,210
Median$139,015
MaximumCompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
Hourly Pay
$17.69
Minimum$31.35
Median$47.18
MaximumAnnual Pay
$13,568
Minimum$60,422
Median$107,009
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
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. Mechanical engineers 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.
Job duties
Mechanical engineers perform 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.
Sample job titles
- acoustical engineer
- automotive engineer
- building systems engineer
- energy conservation engineer
- heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) engineer
- mechanical engineer
- nuclear engineer
- power plant engineer
- refrigeration engineer
- robotics engineer
Skills
To work in this field, you should have an interest in the design and operation of machines and mechanical processes. Persistence, good judgement, and the ability to think analytically and logically are important. You must be able to communicate and work well with others, as engineers often work in teams. Leadership and problem-solving skills are also expected. Computer experience would be helpful.
Job requirements
- A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or in a related engineering discipline is required.
- 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 practice 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.
Other considerations
There is considerable mobility between mechanical engineering specializations at the less senior levels. Supervisory and senior positions in this 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. Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and acquire knowledge and skills through work experience that may allow them to practice in associated areas of science, engineering, sales, marketing or management.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Professional Business Services
Public Administration
Other Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
Construction
Rubber, Plastics & Chemical Manufacturing
What is the age of Employment?
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
35-44
45-54
55-64
25-34
65+
Top levels of education
Bachelor's degree
$76,194 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$74,960 median annual incomeDoctorate
N/AUniversity advanced certificate or diploma
$84,000 median annual incomeMedicine, dentistry, veterinary, optometry
N/ACompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
College certificate or diploma
$52,476 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$58,011 median annual incomeHigh school
$35,125 median annual incomeMaster's degree
$37,706 median annual incomeTrades certificate
$54,923 median annual incomeEducation & training
Engineering - General
This program is typically offered at the university level.This instructional program class includes any program that generally prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to solve a wide variety of practical problems in industry, social organization, public works, and commerce.
Institutions providing this program
Office of the Registrar
Halifax, NS B3H 4R2
(902) 494-2450
PO Box 5000
Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
(902) 867-2219
923 Robie Street
Halifax, NS B3H 3C3
(902) 420-5400
PO Box 5300 1250 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 6L2
(888) 959-9995
PO Box 550
Truro, NS B2N 5E3
(902) 893-6600
Mathematics - General
This program is typically offered at the college or university level.This instructional program class includes any general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. These programs include courses in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical specializations.
Institutions providing this program
Office of the Registrar
Halifax, NS B3H 4R2
(902) 494-2450
6350 Coburg Road
Halifax, NS B3H 2A1
(902) 422-1271
166 Bedford Highway
Halifax, NS B3M 2J6
(902) 457-6117
PO Box 5000
Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
(902) 867-2219
923 Robie Street
Halifax, NS B3H 3C3
(902) 420-5400
PO Box 5300 1250 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 6L2
(888) 959-9995
Mechanical engineering
This program is typically offered at the university level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of physical systems used in manufacturing and end-product systems used for specific uses, including machine tools, jigs and other manufacturing equipment; stationary power units and appliances; engines; self-propelled vehicles; housings and containers; hydraulic and electric systems for controlling movement; and the integration of computers and remote control with operating systems.
Institutions providing this program
Office of the Registrar
Halifax, NS B3H 4R2
(902) 494-2450
PO Box 5300 1250 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 6L2
(888) 959-9995
Physical sciences - General
This program is typically offered at the college or university level.This instructional program class includes any program that focuses on the major topics, concepts, processes, and interrelationships of physical phenomena as studied in any combination of physical science disciplines.
Institutions providing this program
923 Robie Street
Halifax, NS B3H 3C3
(902) 420-5400
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Right to Title and Practice: This job is regulated, and the job title is protected in Nova Scotia (you may not use this job title without holding a provincial licence). A licence shows that the holder has met provincial requirements and is required to work in this job.