How to be a mechanical engineer in the construction industry

Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile and in-demand fields of engineering, especially in the construction industry. Mechanical engineers design, install, maintain, and optimize various systems and equipment that are essential for the functionality and safety of buildings and infrastructure.

In this blog post, we will explore the learning and certification requirements, the fields of work, and the career paths for mechanical engineers in the construction industry.

Learning and certifications for mechanical engineer in the construction industry

To become a mechanical engineer in the construction industry, you need to have a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in mathematics, physics, engineering principles, and computer-aided design (CAD).

The journey of mechanical engineers usually begins with a four-year bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field from an accredited university. During the university program, mechanical engineering students study topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mechanics of materials, machine design, control systems, and engineering ethics. They also face challenges such as rigorous coursework, hands-on projects, and competitive exams.

After completing the bachelor's degree, some mechanical engineers may pursue postgraduate studies such as a master's degree, a professional diploma, or a professional degree. These programs allow mechanical engineers to specialize in a specific area of interest, such as HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, renewable energy, or building automation. Postgraduate studies can also enhance the research and analytical skills of mechanical engineers and prepare them for academic or leadership roles.

In addition to formal education, mechanical engineers in the construction industry need to obtain licenses and certifications that demonstrate their competence and professionalism. Depending on the country or region, mechanical engineers may need to pass exams and meet certain criteria to become licensed as professional engineers (PE), chartered engineers (CEng), or equivalent titles. These licenses are usually required for mechanical engineers who want to work as consultants, contractors, or public servants.

Mechanical engineers can also obtain voluntary certifications from various organizations that validate their expertise and skills in specific domains or technologies. For example, mechanical engineers can get certified as LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED AP) by the U.S. Green Building Council, Certified Energy Managers (CEM) by the Association of Energy Engineers, or Certified Plumbing Designers (CPD) by the American Society of Plumbing Engineers. These certifications can enhance the credibility and employability of mechanical engineers in the construction industry.

Fields of work for mechanical engineers in the construction industry

Mechanical engineers in the construction industry can work in various fields and sectors, depending on their interests, skills, and goals. Some of the common fields of work for mechanical engineers in the construction industry are:

- Consultant design engineer: A consultant design engineer is responsible for designing and specifying the mechanical systems and equipment for a construction project, such as HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and building automation. A consultant design engineer works closely with the client, the architect, and other engineers to ensure that the mechanical design meets the project requirements, standards, codes, and best practices. A consultant design engineer also prepares drawings, calculations, specifications, and reports for the mechanical design.

- Consultant site supervision engineer: A consultant site supervision engineer is responsible for overseeing and inspecting the installation and commissioning of the mechanical systems and equipment for a construction project. A consultant site supervision engineer works closely with the contractor, the subcontractor, and the supplier to ensure that the mechanical installation complies with the design, the contract, and the quality standards. A consultant site supervision engineer also monitors the progress, the budget, and the safety of the mechanical installation.

- Site engineer in contracting company: A site engineer in a contracting company is responsible for executing and managing the mechanical installation and commissioning for a construction project. A site engineer in a contracting company works closely with the consultant, the subcontractor, and the supplier to ensure that the mechanical installation is completed on time, on budget, and quality. A site engineer in a contracting company also coordinates the manpower, the materials, and the equipment for the mechanical installation.

- Sales engineer in construction material supplier: A sales engineer in a construction material supplier is responsible for marketing and selling the mechanical products and services for a construction project, such as HVAC units, pumps, valves, pipes, fittings, and controls. A sales engineer in a construction material supplier works closely with the client, the consultant, and the contractor to understand their needs, offer solutions, and negotiate prices. A sales engineer in a construction material supplier also provides technical support and training for mechanical products and services.

- Freelancer mechanical designer: A freelancer mechanical designer is responsible for providing mechanical design and drafting services for a construction project, either as an individual or as part of a team. A freelancer mechanical designer works remotely with the client, the consultant, or the contractor to deliver the mechanical design and drawings, using CAD software and online platforms. A freelancer mechanical designer also follows the project specifications, standards, codes, and best practices for mechanical design.

Career paths for mechanical engineer in the construction industry

Mechanical engineers in the construction industry can have different career paths, depending on their fields of work, their experience, and their goals. Some of the possible career paths for mechanical engineers in the construction industry are:

- Career path for a consultant mechanical design engineer: A consultant mechanical design engineer can start as a junior engineer, then progress to a senior engineer, a lead engineer, a project manager, a department manager, a director, or a partner. A consultant mechanical design engineer can also switch to other fields of work, such as site supervision, contracting, sales, or freelancing.

- Career path for consultant site mechanical supervision engineer: A consultant site mechanical supervision engineer can start as a junior engineer, then progress to a senior engineer, a site manager, a project manager, a department manager, a director, or a partner. A consultant site mechanical supervision engineer can also switch to other fields of work, such as design, contracting, sales, or freelancing.

- Career path for a mechanical site engineer in a contracting company: A mechanical site engineer in a contracting company can start as a junior engineer, then progress to a senior engineer, a site manager, a project manager, a department manager, a director, or a partner. A mechanical site engineer in a contracting company can also switch to other fields of work, such as design, supervision, sales, or freelancing.

- Career path for a mechanical sales engineer in a construction material supplier: A mechanical sales engineer in a construction material supplier can start as a junior engineer, then progress to a senior engineer, a sales manager, a product manager, a regional manager, a director, or a partner. A mechanical sales engineer in a construction material supplier can also switch to other fields of work, such as design, supervision, contracting, or freelancing.

- Career path for a freelancer mechanical designer: A freelancer mechanical designer can start as a junior designer, then progress to a senior designer, a team leader, a project manager, a business owner, or a partner. A freelancer mechanical designer can also switch to other fields of work, such as design, supervision, contracting, or sales.

Conclusion

Mechanical engineering is a rewarding and challenging career in the construction industry. Mechanical engineers must have a strong educational background, a valid license, and relevant certifications to work in the construction industry. Mechanical engineers can also choose from various fields of work and career paths, depending on their preferences and aspirations. Mechanical engineers can also enjoy the benefits of working in a dynamic and diverse industry that contributes to the development and improvement of society.