4 recommended qualifications for mechanical engineers|Explanation of main job descriptions and characteristics of suitable candidates.

2024.07.17

  • Industry Information
機械エンジニアにおすすめの資格4選|主な仕事内容や向いている人の特徴も解説

Mechanical engineers, as the name implies, are engineers with expertise in machinery. Many people are interested in this field because it differs from general engineering in a number of ways.

In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of mechanical engineers, their job description, required studies, as well as recommended qualifications. If you are interested in becoming a mechanical engineer or are considering a career change, please read to the end.

What is a mechanical engineer?


機械エンジニアとは?

Mechanical engineers are experts in designing a wide variety of machines. They do not merely design, but are also responsible for all stages of the machine building process, from planning, selection of materials and parts to be used, selection of technology, and prototype fabrication and evaluation. Therefore, the work of a mechanical engineer is very diverse.

Mechanical engineers work in a wide range of fields, including IT, space development, industrial robotics, aircraft, automobiles, home appliances, and many others. The nature of their work varies depending on the type of machine they are designing. For example, a microwave oven needs to be able to heat food, and a car needs to be able to drive on the road. Since the performance required in each field is different, the role of the mechanical engineer also changes.

However, what all mechanical engineers have in common is “to design machines that meet the needs of each field.

Main Responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineer


機械エンジニアの主な仕事内容

The main tasks of a mechanical engineer can be divided into five main phases. Here are the details of each process.

Planning

Mechanical engineers are involved in the planning stage before starting to design a machine. This is done based on ideas proposed by the product planning department, their own ideas, and client requirements.

At this stage, it is essentially a matter of determining the functions, performance, and other specifications to be incorporated into the machine. However, not only functions but also factors such as size, design, and usability are taken into consideration, and plans are compiled from various perspectives.

Conceptual Design

In conceptual design, materials and technologies to be used for the machine are selected to materialize the plan. At this stage, image diagrams are created using punch drawings and 3D CAD in order to give the concept a clearer shape. This is because the use of an image diagram makes it easier for all parties involved to understand the concept.

Usually, we proceed by using punch drawings, but if there are multiple ideas and it is difficult to make a decision, we may use 3DCAD to narrow down the candidates while confirming specific movements.

Basic Design

Once the concept has been finalized, the next step is basic design. Here, we determine the detailed structure and confirm whether the machine can be manufactured. Specifically, design drawings are drawn, analyses and simulations are performed, and so on.

In basic design, the foundation of the machine and materials for the parts to be used are selected. Before proceeding to detailed design, we check to see if there are any strength issues. Strength is evaluated by calculation, and cost as well as strength is taken into consideration when selecting materials.

Detailed Design

In the detailed design phase, more specific details are determined based on the basic design. At this stage, in addition to the structure and specifications, the dimensions of the parts are also determined. Detailed design is a very important process to ensure production stability, machine safety, and functionality.

During this design phase, tolerances for unavoidable errors are also established. Tolerance values are noted on the drawings, and since their accuracy directly affects the quality of the parts, it is necessary to proceed very carefully.

Production Design

Final drawings are prepared for the mass production of machines of the same standard. This is the process of creating drawings that take into consideration the efficient production at the factory. Therefore, machining methods and assembly procedures must also be described in detail. The materials, parts, dimensions, and techniques to be used are also finalized at this stage.

When creating drawings, it is also important to consider whether the production process can be simplified and man-hours reduced.

Prototyping and Evaluation

Based on the drawings created in production design, we first create a prototype and actually run it to see if it functions as designed.

During this process, not only functionality but also items such as safety, operability, and durability are checked in detail. The process evaluates whether these conditions are met and continues to make detailed adjustments until the quality of the machine improves. If performance is unsatisfactory, we may go back to the design process and redesign the machine.

Four recommended certifications for mechanical engineer jobs


機械エンジニアの仕事に役立つおすすめの資格4選

There are four recommended certifications for mechanical engineers who are responsible for a wide variety of tasks. We will introduce what each one entails, the qualifications to take the exam, and the level of difficulty.

Professional Engineer

The Professional Engineer is a national qualification that certifies advanced knowledge and applied skills in science and technology. To obtain this certification, you must pass both the primary and secondary examinations. While anyone can take the primary examination, four to seven years of work experience is required to take the secondary examination. Specifically, one of the following conditions must be met
 

  • After registering as an Assistant Professional Engineer, gain at least 4 years of work experience under a supervising Professional Engineer.
  • After passing the first examination for professional engineer, acquire at least 4 years of work experience under the supervision of a professional supervisor.
  • At least 7 years of work experience

The knowledge required is a basic knowledge of science and technology and a knowledge of a chosen specialized field. You can freely choose from 20 specialized fields. For example, you can choose from the Machinery, Shipbuilding & Marine, Textile, Metals, and Agriculture divisions. In particular, the mechanical division is where you can prove your knowledge and skills in mechanical design.

Professional Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer Examination

The Mechanical Design Engineer Examination is a private qualification, different from the Professional Engineer, that certifies practical mechanical design skills. The examinations range from Level 1 to Level 3, with no restrictions on eligibility for Level 3. Levels 2 and 1 require work experience, and 10 years of work experience is required from Level 3, but this depends on the last level of education.

Level 3 requires the ability to assist in detailed design, Level 2 requires the ability to handle planning and design, and Level 1 requires the knowledge and ability to perform basic design. However, Level 2 requires applied skills, and Level 1 requires a high level of expertise and comprehensive ability. However, even obtaining Level 3 is proof of basic knowledge.

Mechanical Design Engineer Examination

CAD user engineer examination

One of the essential skills for mechanical engineers is CAD operation. The CAD user engineer examination tests the knowledge and drafting skills required to operate CAD software.

There are two types of exams: the 2D CAD User Engineer Exam, which focuses on 2D CAD, and the 3D CAD User Engineer Exam, which focuses on 3D CAD. 2D CAD User Engineer Exam has three levels: Basic, Level 2, and Level 1, with Level 1 requiring a choice between three fields: mechanical, tracing, and architectural. The 3D CAD user engineer examination has three levels: Level 2, Level 1, and Level 1.

The 3D CAD User Engineer Examination is available in three levels: Level 2, Level 1, and Level 1. Even at the beginner level, such as Basic and Level 2, the level of difficulty is high enough to require the ability to perform tasks using CAD.

CAD User Engineer Examination

Mechanical and Plant Drafting Skills Test

The Mechanical and Plant Drafting Skills Test is a national certification that certifies the ability of mechanical engineers. This examination evaluates whether or not the applicant has the skills necessary for designing and drawing machinery and plants.

The certification is divided into three levels: Level 3, Level 2, and Level 1. Anyone can take the Level 3 examination, regardless of educational background or work experience. Without the required education, Level 2 requires a minimum of two years of work experience or passing Level 3. Level 1 requires a minimum of seven years of work experience, but can be taken with two years of work experience if you have passed Level 2 or four years if you have passed Level 3.

The three main areas of the examination are mechanical drafting hand-drawn work, mechanical drafting CAD work, and plant piping drafting. It is important to have extensive knowledge in these areas in order to pass.

Mechanical and Plant Drafting Skills Test

United World offers a wealth of job listings to support your career as a mechanical engineer, as well as content to help you with your job search. If you have any questions or concerns about changing jobs, please feel free to contact us f dedicated career advisors are available to answer your questions.

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What knowledge does a mechanical engineer need?


機械エンジニアに必要な知識は?

To become a mechanical engineer, you need to know at least the following six things. Here is an overview of what the study is about, the level of difficulty, and how to learn it.

4Knowledge of mechanics

Mechanics, a branch of physics, is essential knowledge for mechanical engineers. Even if you have design and machining skills, you cannot fulfill your role as a mechanical engineer without basic knowledge of mechanics. Mechanics is divided into four areas: mechanics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and mechanics of materials, each of which must be studied thoroughly.

First, mechanodynamics studies the phenomena that occur when a machine moves. Next, fluid mechanics studies the properties of fluids and their actions. Then, thermodynamics deepens students' knowledge of thermal energy. In material mechanics, students study deformation and fracture caused by forces applied to machines.

All four areas of mechanics can be studied through books and videos.

Knowledge of Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is the study of the skills and knowledge required to build machines. This discipline covers a wide range of areas from the design of machines to their operation. In addition, mechanical engineering is deeply related to the four dynamics of physics.

An important foundation for mechanical engineering is mathematics, especially linear algebra and matrices. If you are good at physics and mathematics, you will be able to learn mechanical engineering smoothly. Knowledge of electronics, instrumentation, control engineering, and information technology is also required.

This wide variety of knowledge is necessary, but it is essential to learn the basics of mechanical design. Mechanical engineering can be learned in books, but many exercises are also offered at universities and other educational institutions.

Knowledge of Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering is the study of various aspects of electricity. It covers a wide range of areas such as how to utilize electricity efficiently, electric circuits, semiconductors, telecommunications, and optics. Electrical engineering is also an important foundation for studying mechanical engineering.

To study electrical engineering, a basic knowledge of physics and mathematics is necessary. In addition to that, knowledge of electric circuits, electronic circuits, and electromagnetism is also required. It is considered a challenging course at universities and other institutions and requires a lot of time and effort.

However, knowledge of electrical engineering is also important for mechanical engineers because it is very useful in mechanical design. The best way to learn electrical engineering is through self-study with books or at a technical school or university.

Knowledge of Control Engineering

Control engineering is another essential field for mechanical engineers. In this discipline, you can learn the control rules for the proper operation of robots, automobiles, aircraft, and other machines. Control engineering is the art of building rules into machines.

Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics is very important in this field. It also requires an understanding of modeling and signal and system theory, which are the foundations of control engineering.

There are two schools of thought in control engineering: “classical control” and “modern control. It is required to understand the difference between these two and to apply this knowledge to machine design.

Knowledge of laws and regulations

In order to deliver machines to the world, it is also important to design in compliance with all laws and regulations. In particular, intellectual property rights and patent law are important laws and regulations that mechanical engineers need to understand. If you ignore the laws and regulations, your knowledge, skills, and trust will be wasted.

Therefore, it is important to have a basic knowledge of laws and regulations to avoid risks. Make sure to check the laws and regulations related to the field in which you want to work, and always check the latest information when proceeding with your design. It is essential to check the latest laws and regulations so that you do not continue to design based on outdated information.

Knowledge of CAE Analysis

CAE analysis is a very important skill that can identify mechanical problems at the design stage. With traditional methods, prototypes had to be rebuilt every time a problem occurred, which was extremely time-consuming and costly. However, by utilizing CAE analysis, these problems can be greatly reduced.

First, CAE analysis eliminates the need to create physical prototypes because verification is performed on a computer. This can result in significant cost and time savings. Problems can be identified and corrected early in the design process without having to repeat actual prototyping.

Another major benefit of CAE analysis is that it streamlines the entire design process. Finding and fixing problems early in the process reduces later design changes and makes the entire project progress more smoothly. This can also shorten the time from design to product completion.

In addition, CAE analysis improves design accuracy because it can simulate a wide range of situations. For example, it is possible to simulate conditions that are difficult to reproduce in reality, such as “operating a machine in a zero-gravity space. In this way, detailed simulations of the actual operating environment can enhance the reliability and safety of the design.

To perform CAE analysis effectively, knowledge of material mechanics, knowledge of the finite element method, and knowledge of CAE software are necessary. Combined, this knowledge enables us to identify problems early in the design process and optimize the design process through highly accurate simulation.

Characteristics of a Suitable Mechanical Engineer


機械エンジニアに向いている人の特徴

Finally, here are some characteristics of people who are suited to be mechanical engineers. Please use them as a reference to see if you yourself are suited for the job.

People who like to tinker with machines

People who are suited for mechanical engineering are, above all, people who like to tinker with machines. Although people tend to think that the core of the job is mechanical design, such as CAD operation, there are actually many opportunities to touch machines.

For example, in the prototype stage after production design, prototypes are actually created and evaluated. If there are any problems with functionality or performance, the machine may be disassembled and reassembled repeatedly. In other words, once we reach this stage, we can continue to touch the machine.

Furthermore, people who enjoy tinkering with machines naturally tend to acquire knowledge and skills related to machine design. Even if it is a difficult subject, they are able to become mechanical engineers without falling behind because they are motivated by a high level of interest.

People who are good at quietly continuing steady work

The work of a mechanical engineer involves a lot of steady work. Therefore, people who can persevere in such tasks are also suited for this job. For example, there are many cases in which detailed numerical values and materials are determined, and analyses and simulations are performed repeatedly, and these are particularly steady tasks.

In mechanical design, attention to detail and pursuit of precision are required. For this reason, it is not suitable for those who become tedious or bored in the process, or who are not good at detailed work.

In addition, to succeed as a mechanical engineer, steady effort is also required in the process of acquiring the necessary knowledge. In other words, those who can acquire such knowledge are suited for mechanical engineering.

People who are highly motivated to learn about the latest technologies such as AI

To become a mechanical engineer, it is important to always be designing with the latest technology. Mechanical technology is evolving every day, and new technologies are being developed one after another. Even with past achievements, if you continue to rely on old technology, demand will decrease and you may lose credibility. Therefore, it is essential to keep abreast of the latest technology and information.

People who are eager to learn about new technologies are suited to be mechanical engineers. If you are interested not only in mechanical design but also in AI and other information, you will be more likely to learn new technologies. A willingness to satisfy one's intellectual curiosity as well as for the sake of one's job is a great advantage in becoming a mechanical engineer.

Summary: “United World” is the best place to find a job as a mechanical engineer.


まとめ:機械エンジニアへの転職を目指すなら「United World」

In this issue, we have introduced the job description and recommended qualifications for mechanical engineers. A wide range of knowledge and qualifications are required to work as a mechanical engineer. However, even if you have these qualifications, it will be difficult to put them to use if you do not find a job that suits you.

United World” offers a global job search service specializing in career changes for engineers. Our dedicated career advisors will introduce you to positions that match your needs through counseling and provide you with excellent support. If you are considering a career change to mechanical engineering, please click the button below to contact us.

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