Mechanical Engineer Resume Example

Shore up your resume with our advice for mechanical engineers.

Katerina Frye
Written by Katerina Frye • Last updated on Mar 16, 2021
Mechanical Engineer Resume Example
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Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical Engineers research, design, develop, build, and test a number of devices from batteries to elevators to medical equipment. Some Mechanical Engineers specialize in automobiles, robots, or AC and heating systems. 

How to Write a Summary for a Mechanical Engineer

  1. Mention your previous experience. How many companies have you worked for? What industries have you developed products for? 
  2. Describe your greatest strength. Are you a math genius? Do you excel in computer-aided design?
  3. Quantify your experience. How many projects have you worked on? What were the average budgets for these projects?

How to List Your Work Experience as a Mechanical Engineer

  1. Use reverse chronological format. List your most recent jobs first, as this shows managers how you’ve gained experience in the industry. 
  2. Use action verbs related to being a Mechanical Engineer. Verbs are critical to demonstrating what you can do for the company. Review the following list for some powerful examples.
  • Built 
  • Collaborated 
  • Coordinated
  • Created
  • Designed 
  • Developed 
  • Devised 
  • Diagnosed 
  • Evaluated
  • Implemented
  • Organized
  • Performed 
  • Prepared
  • Worked 

See our list of over 350 action verbs to find more.

Senior Level Work Experience as a Mechanical Engineer

  • Evaluated and improved HVAC designs for cost effectiveness, reducing the cost of materials by 15%
  • Collaborated with the Industrial Design team to ensure concepts are functional and can be manufactured
  • Provided technical support to clients in solving quality problems with existing products
  • Established the project schedule for 4 designs concerning HVAC systems and completed the projects 3 weeks ahead of schedule 
  • Specified equipment to be purchased using Purchase Requisitions and Bill of Materials 
  • Organized the installation of the equipment, including coordination with the customer and installation contractors
  • Designed components of cooling and heat transfer systems
  • Coordinated operations, maintenance, and repair activities for existing projects
  • Developed the company’s standard methods and procedures for testing products 
  • Directed 25 engineer personnel in testing and design procedures for new HVAC systems
  • Oversaw fabrication and installation activities to ensure products and systems conform to engineering design and customer specifications 
  • Created project proposals for manufacturing improvements to support client demand
  • Prepared project proposals, progress reports, and completion presentations , for management
  • Lead design interdisciplinary coordination efforts to ensure delivery of a complete, approved, coordinated work product 

Junior Level Work Experience as a Mechanical Engineer

  • Performed engineering calculations for things such as heat gain, heat loss, and energy transfer, pressure losses in air duct or hydronic piping
  • Performed work in accordance with the Conduct of Engineering (CoE) and applicable Federal, State, and Laboratory codes and standards. 
  • Prepared conclusions and analysis reports for projects in the automobile, heating, and medical industries
  • Devised alternative mechanical structures for medical laser equipment, reducing costs by 19%
  • Developed new tools and systems to enhance production of commercial radio equipment 
  • Provided cost estimates for materials, equipment, and labor for 17+ projects
  • Diagnosed and troubleshot observatory mechanical and electro-mechanical systems
  • Worked with team of 12 to design and build cooling equipment for use in laboratories 
  • Conceived, designed, and prototyped a light-weight antenna for use in car radios
  • Played integral role in patent-pending cooling system for blood storage in hospitals


How to List Your Skills as a Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers need to envision new products and be able to create the tangible item. This requires a strong knowledge of design software and mechanical skills, in addition to collaborative and creative abilities.  

  • Math skills
  • Computer skills
  • Mechanical Skills
  • Creativity 
  • Problem-Solving 
  • Teamwork
  • Computer-Aided Design 
  • Engineering product data management software (EPDM)
  • Project Management 

How to List Your Education as a Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers generally require a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, or mechanical engineering technology.

Senior Mechanical Engineers need to be licensed in order to oversee the work of other engineers, manage projects, and provide services directly to the public. This is accomplished by securing a Professional Engineering (PE) license. 

Requirements for becoming a Professional Engineer vary by state but generally involve the following:

  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering exam
  • Relevant work experience typically at least 4 years
  • A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
  • Apply for a license in the state you’re located in. Mechanical engineers who sell services publicly must be licensed in all states and the District of Columbia.
  • Complete a background check

For more information on the Professional Engineer license, check out this link.

Certifications are not required, but can help your resume standout. Some examples of in-demand mechanical engineering certifications include:

  • Certified Bearing Specialist
  • Solar Heating Installer
  • Certified Manufacturing Engineer
  • Certified HVAC Designer
  • You can find more details here

Mechanical Engineer Career Overview

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Mechanical Engineers is growing at 4% per year, which is considered average. In 2018 there were 312,900 jobs available.

Average Salary 

Mechanical Engineers make $88,430 per year on average. However, salaries could be as high as $138,020 depending on  experience, certifications, and location. 

Top Paying Salaries by State

  • $114,420 -- New Mexico
  • $112,240 -- District of Columbia
  • $109,800 -- Maryland

Search for Mechanical Engineering Jobs

Katerina Frye
With a background in Psychology and Marketing, Katerina devotes her time to understand people, their careers, and their goals to help them succeed. She also has experience in social media, science writing, and fiction. When she isn't writing, she's hitting the gym, playing with her cats, or eating chocolate.
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