Mechanical Engineer / Capital Machinery Design

Mechanical engineers build and design mechanical devices, equipment and instruments. These professionals work closely with clients to understand what type of equipment the customer wants and then works with various computer programs including computer aided drafting programs like AutoCAD to design the equipment, part or mechanism. After completing the drawing the mechanical engineer then consults with the client, makes necessary modifications, and works with a service company to create a physical prototype of the design. The mechanical engineer then tests the prototype, makes necessary adjustments, and returns it to the builder. Working closely with the builder or production team the mechanical engineer troubleshoots the mechanism or piece of equipment and sends it to the customer.

Mechanical engineers have formal training in engineering, design or manufacturing as well as a good background in how things work. Often engineers use existing types of equipment or mechanisms and simply modify them to meet the client's needs. Creativity and an ability to "think outside the box" are important for a mechanical engineer. The ability to work with various computer programs, complete cost analysis and cost projections as well as an ability to communicate well with others in a team environment is equally essential.

Some mechanical engineers work less on the design aspect of the job and more on the troubleshooting end. Mechanical engineers may be called in to address problems with specific equipment or instruments that are experiencing problems and glitches. Mechanical engineers that specialize in correcting problems must be able to think logically as well as understand how equipment and systems work.

Common work activities include:

• Discussing projects with clients to determine what the client is needing, wanting modified or changed or requires in the project.
• Drafting designs of proposals for the new piece of equipment, machinery, instrument or mechanism.
• Developing cost analysis and cost projections for the production and manufacturing of the new equipment.
• Meeting with sub-contractors and production teams to address any concerns, issues or problems with the development of the project.
• Testing, monitoring and supervising the use of the prototype developed, making modifications if necessary.
• Troubleshooting problems or difficulty with new or existing equipment, machines or mechanisms.

Top Online College Degree Programs

	University of Phoenix - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctorate Degrees. University of Phoenix is an outstanding university with programs offered both online and on campus. Phoenix is committed to helping students develop intellectually and personally in order to reach their career goals.
	Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University has a wide range of programs available for individuals who want to make a career change or improve their job prospects. As a leader in online education, Kaplan delivers innovative, relevant, and convenient education.
	American InterContinental University Online - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. AIU is a career-oriented education that prepares students to take on today's fastest-growing jobs. With students all over the world, AIU is able to cater to the individual needs and career goals of every type of student.
	Ashford University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Ashford University aims to make education accessible and affordable for every kind of student. Students can enhance their career opportunities without sacrificing commitments to work, family, or the military.
	Grand Canyon University - Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. As a well-known online university, Grand Canyon University stands by its respectable reputation as one of the best colleges to attend online. They offer numerous programs with flexible courses in order to allow students to obtain an advanced degree without sacrificing their current responsibilities.
	Liberty University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Liberty University is an evangelical school that offers programs online and on campus. Individuals who want to change career fields or advance in their current field will be able to obtain their degree in a flexible and affordable manner at Liberty.
	DeVry University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. DeVry University provides students with a practical, hands-on education from instructors who are accomplished in their respective field. DeVry has programs for students on campus and online so students can get their degree in an affordable, flexible way.
	Colorado Technical University - Colorado Technical University - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctoral Degrees. Colorado Technical University offers a wide variety of high quality programs that will prepare students for the competitive job market. Their affordable prices allow students with a budget to advance in their career.
	Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Everest University designs degree programs for today's fastest-growing job markets. For this reason, Everest graduates are well-trained and well-prepared to succeed in their respective fields.
	Strayer University - Associate's, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees. Strayer University has been successful in placing students in fast-growing industries using their dynamic curriculum. An accredited university, Strayer University offers affordable programs that allow almost everyone to be able to attend.