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NOC 2016 Version 1.3

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2132 – Mechanical engineers

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. They 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.

Profile

Example titles

  • Acoustics engineer
  • Automotive engineer
  • Design engineer - mechanical
  • Energy conservation engineer
  • Fluid mechanics engineer
  • Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) engineer
  • Mechanical engineer
  • Mechanical maintenance engineer
  • Nuclear engineer
  • Piping engineer
  • Power generation engineer
  • Refrigeration engineer
  • Robotics engineer
  • Thermal design engineer
  • Tool engineer

Main duties

This group performs 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.

Employment 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 practise 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.

Additional information

  • Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and acquire knowledge and skills through work experience that may allow them to practise in associated areas of science, engineering, sales, marketing or management.
  • 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.
  • Supervisory and senior positions in this unit group require experience.
  • There is considerable mobility between mechanical engineering specializations at the less senior levels.

Exclusions

Breakdown summary

Broad occupational category
2 – Natural and applied sciences and related occupations
Skill level
A – Occupations usually require university education.
Major group
21 – Professional occupations in natural and applied sciences
Minor group
213 – Civil, mechanical, electrical and chemical engineers
Associated Career Handbook profiles
2132.0 – Mechanical engineers
Version
NOC 2016 Version 1.3
Date modified: