The job of the mechanical engineer manager involves the design, testing, and manufacturing of machines and supervising the operations of all engineers and designers who are taking part in the process. He may work more in the hands-on development of a project, or more as a project coordinator. Mechanical engineers often specialize in building machines and mechanical components to work in larger scale equipment.
The mechanical engineer manager generally starts as an entry level engineer and progressively moves up the chain of command by consistently displaying an excellent work ethic. A mechanical engineer manager work alongside many other engineering professionals. These can include electrical, manufacturing, and civil engineers. Projects may include the mechanical parts of a large jet or airliner, or the small minute details of medical equipment used by doctors and nurses.
When working on a very large scale project, the mechanical engineer manager may work side-by-side with managers in other engineering specialties to ensure that every aspect of the job works together flawlessly. Each manager ensures that his or her department is operating efficiently, and they correspond with one another to keep things on track. In many cases, a mechanical engineer manager also takes part in the development of new products and works with marketing professionals and designers to meet the needs of consumers. The manager’s technical expertise allows him to know what can be accomplished technologically, while the other professionals provide the look of the product and bring it into stores.
The testing of products and equipment is another potential job for the mechanical engineer manager. Once a project is complete, it must be tested and retested. This ensures proper functioning before it is widely manufactured and distributed.
Mechanical engineer managers may also specialize in any number of subfields. This particular field of engineering is rather general and can encompass many different areas of specialty. These can include, but are not limited to, mechanics, kinematics, mechatronics, and robotics. Each of these disciplines holds an important place in the way modern societies function and operate. Having knowledge in subjects like drafting, research, composites, and nanotechnology are also important.
Engineer managers must also learn to use modern tools of the trade. This often entails courses in mastering computer assisted drawing, drafting, and design. These skills may be learned while obtaining an engineering degree or as separate class after graduation. Most engineers must go through at least two years of school, but managers generally have four years of school under their belts as well as many years of on the job experience.
