How Do You Become a Mechanical Engineer and What Does the Role Involve?
Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile and in-demand disciplines in the built environment sector. From maintaining critical infrastructure and building services to driving innovation in energy, transport, and construction, mechanical engineers are essential to shaping the spaces and systems that support daily life.
Whether you're drawn to the intricacies of HVAC systems in commercial buildings, the mechanics behind sustainable energy technologies, or the precision of transport infrastructure, a career in mechanical engineering offers wide-ranging opportunities and long-term career potential. Here's how to enter the profession and what to expect along the way.
What does a mechanical engineer do?
Mechanical engineers apply the principles of physics, mathematics and material science to design, develop and maintain mechanical systems. In the context of the built environment, this could involve working on heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in commercial buildings, mechanical plant equipment in water treatment facilities, or energy-efficient systems for public infrastructure projects.
Their work combines creative design with analytical problem-solving. They may be responsible for assessing mechanical requirements on-site, creating detailed design plans using CAD software, ensuring compliance with safety and building regulations, and working alongside civil, electrical and environmental engineers to deliver large-scale projects.
As industries across the built environment push toward net-zero targets and smarter infrastructure, mechanical engineers are playing an increasingly important role in delivering innovative, sustainable and future-ready solutions.
How do you become a mechanical engineer?
There are several recognised routes into mechanical engineering, depending on your preferred learning style and career aspirations.
Most professional mechanical engineers start by studying for an accredited degree in mechanical engineering. These typically last three to four years and combine theoretical learning with practical lab and project work. For those targeting senior or chartered roles, a Master of Engineering (MEng) or a BEng followed by a master’s degree offers the most direct pathway.
Accredited courses, recognised by the Engineering Council and supported by institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), are important for those seeking professional registration later in their career. Entry requirements usually include A-levels in maths and physics, along with strong GCSE results in core subjects.
Graduates from related subjects such as general engineering, building services engineering or environmental science may also move into the field through postgraduate conversion courses.
Apprenticeships and technical pathways to becoming a mechanical engineer:
Vocational routes are also well-established and increasingly popular within the built environment sector. Advanced and degree apprenticeships allow you to combine practical on-site experience with academic study. These programmes are particularly relevant to employers in construction, water, energy and transport, who often look to develop talent from within.
A Level 3 Diploma or a T Level in Engineering provides a strong starting point for school leavers, with many going on to secure employment or continue their studies via a higher apprenticeship.
How to gain experience and Chartered / Incorporated status as a mechanical engineer:
Hands-on experience is key to success in this profession. Whether through placements during university, technician roles, or apprenticeships, gaining a solid understanding of how mechanical engineering operates in a live built environment setting is invaluable.
As your experience grows, you can work towards professional recognition. Many engineers seek Chartered (CEng) or Incorporated (IEng) status through the IMechE or CIBSE. This not only validates your skills but also demonstrates your commitment to continued professional development, a key consideration for employers, particularly in highly regulated sectors such as infrastructure and utilities.
Where can you work as a mechanical engineer?
Mechanical engineers are employed across the full breadth of the built environment. You might work for a local authority, a building services consultancy, a utilities provider, or a contractor delivering large infrastructure projects. Common sectors include highways and transport, water and wastewater, energy and renewables, buildings and construction, and rail.
These roles can range from technical design and project engineering to site-based maintenance or installation. As digital transformation accelerates, there is also a growing need for mechanical engineers with knowledge of building information modelling (BIM), smart systems and automation.
How much do you earn as a mechanical engineer?
Salaries are competitive and increase with experience. Entry-level roles typically start at around £28,000, with mid-career professionals earning between £35,000 and £45,000. Chartered engineers and specialists in high-demand sectors may command salaries of £60,000 or more, with plenty of opportunities to work on projects as a freelancer/ contractor.
Mechanical engineering within the built environment is a challenging and rewarding career. It offers the opportunity to apply your skills to tangible, high-impact projects, from sustainable buildings and transport systems to critical infrastructure and clean energy.
As demand for engineering talent grows and investment in green infrastructure increases, now is an excellent time to pursue a career in mechanical engineering. Whether you choose the academic or apprenticeship route, there’s a clear path to success.
At Carrington West, we partner with leading employers across the built environment sector to place talented mechanical engineers in roles that make a real difference. If you're looking to take the next step in your career, whether as a graduate, apprentice, or seasoned professional, explore our live roles or speak to one of our dedicated engineering recruiters today.
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