Are you interested in pursuing a career in mechanical engineering but wondering which jobs pay the most? Look no further. In this post, we will discuss the highest paying mechanical engineering jobs and what you need to know about them.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest paying mechanical engineering jobs are in the fields of aerospace, computer hardware engineering, and oil and gas extraction. These industries require individuals with specialized skills and knowledge, making them highly sought after and lucrative.
In the aerospace industry, mechanical engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. The average annual salary for aerospace engineers is $116,500. Computer hardware engineers, on the other hand, design and develop computer systems and components, and earn an average annual salary of $114,600. Mechanical engineers in the oil and gas extraction industry earn an average annual salary of $109,430, as they design and develop equipment used in oil and gas drilling and extraction.
In summary, the highest paying mechanical engineering jobs are in the aerospace, computer hardware engineering, and oil and gas extraction industries. These fields require specialized skills and knowledge, and offer lucrative salaries.
Aerospace Engineering
When I was in college, I had the opportunity to intern at a company that designed and developed aircraft. It was fascinating to see how mechanical engineering principles were applied to create machines that could fly. The aerospace industry offers a unique and exciting career path for mechanical engineers.
As mentioned earlier, aerospace engineers earn an average annual salary of $116,500. To enter this field, it is important to have a strong background in physics and mathematics, as well as experience in designing and developing aircraft or spacecraft components.
Computer Hardware Engineering
Another high paying field for mechanical engineers is computer hardware engineering. As technology continues to advance, the demand for individuals with expertise in designing and developing computer systems and components is growing.
During my time in college, I took a course in computer-aided design (CAD) and learned how to design and analyze mechanical systems using software. This skill set can be applied to computer hardware engineering, as mechanical engineers can use CAD software to design and develop computer components. Computer hardware engineers earn an average annual salary of $114,600.
Oil and Gas Extraction
The oil and gas extraction industry also offers high paying positions for mechanical engineers. These engineers design and develop equipment used in oil and gas drilling and extraction. They also ensure that the equipment meets safety and environmental standards.
To enter this field, it is important to have knowledge of drilling and extraction operations, as well as experience in designing and developing equipment. Mechanical engineers in the oil and gas extraction industry earn an average annual salary of $109,430.
How to Enter these Fields
If you are interested in pursuing a career in one of these high paying fields, it is important to have a strong educational background in mechanical engineering. You may also want to consider internships or co-op programs to gain hands-on experience in these industries.
Networking is also important in these fields, as many positions are filled through referrals. Attending industry conferences and events can help you connect with professionals and learn more about these fields.
Question and Answer
Q: What skills do I need to have to succeed in these high paying mechanical engineering jobs?
A: Strong skills in physics and mathematics are important, as well as experience in designing and developing mechanical systems or components. Specialized knowledge in the respective fields, such as drilling and extraction operations or computer hardware engineering, is also necessary.
Q: How can I gain hands-on experience in these fields?
A: Consider internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions in these industries. Networking is also important in these fields, as many positions are filled through referrals.
Q: What are some industry conferences or events I can attend to learn more about these fields?
A: The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics hosts an annual Propulsion and Energy Forum and Exposition, while the Society of Petroleum Engineers hosts conferences around the world. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers hosts conferences on computer hardware engineering, such as the International Conference on Computer Design.
Q: Are these fields expected to grow in the future?
A: Yes, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts growth in the aerospace and computer hardware engineering fields, while the oil and gas extraction industry is expected to remain stable.
Conclusion of What are the Highest Paying Mechanical Engineering Jobs
The highest paying mechanical engineering jobs are in the aerospace, computer hardware engineering, and oil and gas extraction industries. These fields require specialized skills and knowledge, and offer lucrative salaries. Pursuing a career in one of these fields can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
