“In high school, I participated in several robotics competitions, so I’ve known pretty much since then that I
wanted to be an engineer. I was able to use a lot of the knowledge I gained in those competitions in my
college classes and even into my first jobs. A lot of things are being automated that used to take dozens of
people to do, and it is exciting to be a part of the team that helps design and test those new functions.”

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Job Description

SOC Code: 17-2141

Mechanical Engineers perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.*

*Source: This information is based on O*NET™ data. O*NET is a trademark registered to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.

Top Job Skills:

• Root cause analysis
• Project planning
• Design calculations
• Provide technical support
• Determine product specifications

General Work Activities:

• Mental Processes
  • Design industrial processing systems
  • Design industrial equipment
  • Evaluate characteristics of equipment or systems
  • Create models of engineering designs or methods
  • Implement design or process improvements
• Interacting With Others
  • Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans
  • Direct industrial production activities
  • Recommend technical design or process changes to improve efficiency, quality, or performance
  • Advise others regarding green practices or environmental concerns
  • Direct equipment maintenance or repair activities
  • Direct installation activities

Source: SC Works Online Services (SCWOS)

*All data is factual, but names, images, and quotations have been adapted to protect the identity of employees and businesses

Job Statistics

Examples of Workforce Areas with Job Openings

• Greenville
• Trident
• Catawba
• Midlands
• Lower Savannah
• Upstate

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area.

Examples of Employers with Job Openings

• Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC
• Bridgestone Americas Inc.
• Vertiv Group Corporation
• Clemson University
• Fluor Corporation
• Merrick & Company

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area.

Related Occupations

• Calibration Technologists and Technicians
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
• Electrical Engineers
• Automotive Engineers
• Mechatronics Engineers

NOTE: All data based on state averages. Information may vary depending on region, experience, and specific employment situation. Last Updated: 2024.

Learn More With SCWOS

SC Works Online Services (SCWOS) is the state’s largest job database and provides all of South Carolina's job postings from all major sites, including Monster and Career Builder, in one resource. SCWOS has thousands of positions listed by employers all over the state. To access SCWOS, visit jobs.scworks.org.

Find in-depth breakdowns of occupational statistics such as necessary job certifications, job skills and abilities, current job openings, overview of general work activities, and more by visiting O*NET.org.