Mechanic vs. Mechanical Engineer: What Are the Differences?

A mechanic and a mechanical engineer are both professionals who work with machines. While a mechanic focuses on repairing machines, a mechanical engineer designs and creates them. If you’re interested in working with machines, learning more about each field can help you decide which one is right for you. In this article, we compare the job titles mechanic and mechanical engineer, and we discuss the similarities and differences between the two.

What is a Mechanic?

Mechanics are responsible for inspecting, repairing and maintaining vehicles. They use a variety of tools to diagnose problems and make repairs. Mechanics may specialize in a particular type of repair such as transmissions, engines or brakes. Some mechanics work in auto dealerships while others are employed by repair shops or are self-employed. Mechanics must be able to read and understand service manuals and have strong problem-solving skills. They must also be able to communicate clearly with customers about the repairs that need to be made.

What is a Mechanical Engineer?

Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing, developing, building, and testing mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create and analyze designs, as well as to simulate and test how a machine is likely to work. Mechanical engineers also work on projects such as optimizing an existing design or troubleshooting a problem with a prototype. In addition to design work, mechanical engineers may also be responsible for supervising the manufacturing process and overseeing the installation of their designs.

Mechanic vs. Mechanical Engineer

Here are the main differences between a mechanic and a mechanical engineer.

Job Duties

Mechanics typically perform basic maintenance on vehicles, such as changing the oil or fixing broken parts. They may also conduct more complex repairs, like rebuilding engines or replacing faulty electrical systems. These professionals rarely design new systems for vehicles and instead focus on repairing existing ones.

Mechanical engineers work closely with designers to develop new products that meet consumer needs. Using their knowledge of physics, mechanical engineers test prototypes to ensure they function properly and make adjustments as needed. They also monitor production to ensure that mechanical designs are followed and that products reach consumers within specified deadlines. Finally, mechanical engineers may oversee installation of products after they’ve been manufactured to ensure proper functionality.

Job Requirements

Mechanics typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a vocational program or an associate degree in automotive technology. Many mechanics also pursue certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). To become certified, mechanics must pass one or more exams that test their knowledge of specific vehicle systems.

Mechanical engineers usually need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree or higher. Additionally, many mechanical engineers are licensed professional engineers (PEs). To obtain a PE license, engineers must pass two exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The first exam, called the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, can be taken after completing an undergraduate engineering program. The second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, is offered in multiple disciplines and can be taken after several years of professional experience.

Work Environment

Mechanical engineers typically work in an office environment, but they may also travel to different locations to evaluate machinery and equipment. They often collaborate with other professionals, such as designers, architects and construction managers, to ensure that the machines they design meet the needs of their clients.

Mechanics usually work in a shop or garage setting where they can perform repairs on vehicles and heavy machinery. Mechanics may also work for themselves or own their own business.

Skills

Both mechanics and mechanical engineers use problem-solving skills to figure out how to fix issues with machines or design new products. However, the type of problem solving required for each job is different. For mechanics, they need to be able to quickly diagnose problems with machines and then find the root cause of the issue. This often requires them to have a strong understanding of how machines work.

For mechanical engineers, they need to be able to solve more complex problems that require designing new products or improving existing ones. This often requires them to have a strong understanding of physics and mathematics. In addition, mechanical engineers need to be able to use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create models of their designs.

Both mechanics and mechanical engineers need to have good communication skills. Mechanics need to be able to communicate with customers about the problems they are experiencing with their machines and then explain the repairs that need to be made. Mechanical engineers need to be able to communicate with other engineers and colleagues about their designs and research. They also may need to present their findings to upper management or potential clients.

Salary

The average salary for a mechanic is $50,238 per year, while the average salary for a mechanical engineer is $91,492 per year. The salary for a mechanic may vary depending on the type of work they do, their location and their experience level. The salary for a mechanical engineer may vary depending on the type of work they do, their location and their experience level.