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How to become a mechanical engineer

A mechanical engineer designs, makes and maintains machines and products, working in production, maintenance, quality or design in factories and plants.

Time to first jobA 3–4 year degree or diploma, then 1–3 months of job search
Fresher pay₹18,000–₹28,000a month
With 5+ years₹55,000–₹1,00,000a month

Steps to become a mechanical engineer

  1. Get a mechanical degree or diploma

    B.E./B.Tech or a diploma in mechanical engineering.

  2. Learn CAD software

    AutoCAD and SolidWorks or CATIA for design roles.

  3. Learn plant tools

    Lean, 5S, quality tools and preventive maintenance.

  4. Do a plant internship

    Shop-floor experience helps you get production and maintenance jobs.

  5. Apply to manufacturing companies

    Auto, engineering and process industries hire graduate engineer trainees.

Skills that raise your pay

  • SolidWorks, CATIA or AutoCAD
  • Automobile and production line experience
  • Quality systems like Six Sigma and lean

Prove your skills with a free eGig skill test; the certificate shows on your profile.

Career path

Mechanical EngineerSenior EngineerProduction ManagerPlant ManagerDesign Lead

Get ready to apply

Common questions

Which software should mechanical engineers learn?

AutoCAD for drawings, and SolidWorks, CATIA or Creo for 3D design, depending on the industry.

Production or design?

Production and maintenance have more openings for freshers; design pays well with strong CAD skills.

How long does it take to become a mechanical engineer?

Usually A 3–4 year degree or diploma, then 1–3 months of job search, depending on your starting point and how much time you put in.

How much does a mechanical engineer earn?

Typical pay is ₹18,000–₹28,000 a month for freshers, ₹30,000–₹55,000 with 2–5 years’ experience and ₹55,000–₹1,00,000 for senior staff.

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