They are involved with the production, transmission, and use of mechanical power and heat. They design and develop power-producing machines such as internal combustion engines, steam and gas turbines, and jet and rocket engines. The work of mechanical engineers varies by industry and function. Specialties include applied mechanics, design engineering, heat transfer, power plant engineering, pressure vessels and piping, motor vehicles, underwater technology, energy conversion systems, instrumentation, and special machinery for the petroleum, rubber, and plastics industries. Mechanical engineers design tools needed by other engineers for their work.
Some mechanical engineers work in production operations, maintenance, and technical sales.
Many are administrators or managers. Registration may be required for mechanical engineers. Some may eventually become engineering managers. Some engineers obtain graduate degrees in engineering to improve their advancement opportunities. Many high-level and chief executives in industry began their careers as engineers.