Following our in-depth look at mechanical engineer salary trends, a crucial question arises: What specific skills are required for mechanical engineers to become top candidates and command those higher salaries? Understanding what mechanical engineers do and the skills they need is essential for anyone considering how to become a mechanical engineer or looking to advance their career in this field.
We understand that knowing what to learn is as important as knowing what you’ll earn. That’s why we’ve conducted a follow-up analysis of over 2,486 mechanical engineering jobs to identify the most in-demand mechanical engineering skills and tools employers are actively seeking in 2025. This analysis also provides insights into the mechanical engineering job outlook and where mechanical engineers work across various industries.
Top 10 Mechanical Engineer Skills
Our analysis of job postings reveals clear patterns in employer requirements. The following mechanical engineering skills and tools were most frequently mentioned across mechanical engineer job descriptions, highlighting what skills are required to be a mechanical engineer in today’s competitive market.
SOLIDWORKS – Mentions: 598
SOLIDWORKS is a 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software program that enables mechanical engineers to create, simulate, analyse, and manage product designs from conceptualisation through manufacturing. SOLIDWORKS appears in 24.1% of all mechanical engineering jobs analysed, making it the most essential technical skill in the field.
Employers particularly value SOLIDWORKS proficiency because it enables:
- Rapid prototyping and design iteration
- Integrated simulation and analysis capabilities
- Collaborative design workflows with manufacturing teams
- Photorealistic rendering for client presentations
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – Mentions: 579
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) refers to the use of computer software to create, modify, analyze, and optimize engineering designs, replacing traditional manual drafting with automated processes. CAD skills appears in 23.3% of job listings. Employers specifically value CAD proficiency for:
- Creating detailed technical drawings and documentation
- Developing 3D models for complex assemblies
- Facilitating design reviews and modifications
- Ensuring manufacturing feasibility
- Supporting cross-functional team collaboration
AutoCAD – Mentions: 485
AutoCAD is a commercial computer-aided design and drafting software application developed by Autodesk, primarily used for creating 2D and 3D technical drawings and documentation. AutoCAD proficiency is mentioned in approximately 19.5% of job listings and is particularly valued for:
- Creating precise technical drawings and blueprints
- Developing detailed manufacturing documentation
- Integrating with other engineering software platforms
- Supporting legacy system updates and modifications
- Enabling standardized drawing practices across teams
Microsoft Excel – Mentions: 455
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet program that allows users to organize, analyze, and visualize data through formulas, functions, charts, and pivot tables, widely used for engineering calculations and data analysis. Appearing in approximately 18.3% of job listings this versatile tool enables:
- Engineering calculations and analysis
- Data visualisation and reporting
- Project tracking and resource management
- Cost estimation and budgeting
- Integration with engineering software outputs
Finite Element Analysis – Mentions: 267
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a computational method that divides complex structures into smaller, simpler parts (finite elements) to predict how products will react to real-world forces, vibration, heat, and other physical effects. FEA skills appear in 10.7% of job postings. Employers value FEA expertise for:
- Predicting product performance before physical prototyping
- Optimizing designs for strength and weight
- Identifying potential failure points
- Reducing development costs and time
- Validating design decisions with data
Project Management – Mentions: 245
Project Management in engineering involves planning, executing, and overseeing engineering projects from conception to completion, ensuring they meet technical requirements, deadlines, and budget constraints. It is mentioned in approximately 9.9% of job listings. This skill set encompasses:
- Planning and scheduling engineering projects
- Coordinating cross-functional teams
- Managing budgets and resources
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Stakeholder communication
Engineers with formal project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2) or demonstrated experience leading complex projects are increasingly valued across all industries.
HVAC – Mentions: 165
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) refers to the technology and systems used to control temperature, humidity, and air quality in buildings and vehicles, ensuring comfort and safety. This skill appears in approximately 6.6% of job listings,and is valued for:
- Designing efficient climate control systems
- Ensuring compliance with energy codes
- Optimizing building performance
- Integrating sustainable technologies
- Managing complex mechanical systems
Autodesk Inventor – Mentions: 162
Autodesk Inventor appears in 6.5% of job posting and it is a 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation software used for creating 3D digital prototypes of products to validate form, fit, and function before manufacturing. Its specific strengths in mechanical design make it valuable for:
- Parametric modeling of mechanical components
- Dynamic simulation of mechanisms
- Integration with manufacturing processes
- Digital prototyping workflows
- Collaborative design environments
ASME – Mentions: 160
ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) is a professional organization that develops and maintains engineering codes and standards used globally for the design, manufacturing, and operation of mechanical systems.
Knowledge of ASME standards appears in 6.4% of job listings, highlighting the importance of industry standards and best practices. This includes:
- Understanding design codes and standards
- Ensuring regulatory compliance
- Implementing safety protocols
- Following industry best practices
- Maintaining professional certifications
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) – Mentions: 135
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a branch of fluid mechanics that uses numerical analysis and algorithms to solve and analyze problems involving fluid flows, heat transfer, and related phenomena. CFD skills, mentioned in 6.4% of postings, represent advanced analysis capabilities increasingly important in modern engineering. Employers value CFD expertise for:
- Analyzing fluid flow and heat transfer
- Optimizing aerodynamic designs
- Predicting system performance
- Reducing physical testing requirements
- Solving complex thermal problems
GD&T – Mentions: 124
Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) is a symbolic language used on engineering drawings to explicitly describe the geometry of parts and assemblies, defining allowable variations in form and size.
GD&T knowledge appears in 5.0% of job listings, reflecting its importance in precision manufacturing and quality control. This skill enables:
- Precise communication of design intent
- Reduction of manufacturing errors
- Cost optimization through appropriate tolerancing
- Improved quality control processes
- International standardization of drawings
Plumbing – Mentions: 118
Plumbing engineering involves the design, installation, and maintenance of water supply, drainage, and waste management systems in buildings and infrastructure projects. Plumbing design skills appear in 4.7% of job listings, particularly in building services and infrastructure engineering roles. This specialization includes:
- Designing water distribution systems
- Calculating pipe sizes and flow rates
- Ensuring code compliance
- Integrating with other building systems
- Sustainable water management solutions
Hydraulics – Mentions: 113
Hydraulics is the branch of engineering dealing with the mechanical properties of liquids and their application in engineering systems, using pressurized fluids to generate, control, and transmit power. Hydraulics knowledge appears in 4.5% of job listings. This skill encompasses:
- Designing hydraulic circuits and systems
- Selecting appropriate components (pumps, valves, cylinders)
- Troubleshooting hydraulic problems
- Understanding fluid power principles
- System optimization and efficiency
Revit – Mentions: 112
Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that allows engineers and architects to design buildings and infrastructure in 3D while managing project information throughout the building lifecycle. It appears in 4.5% of job listings and this BIM software enables:
- 3D modeling of building systems
- Clash detection between disciplines
- Automated documentation generation
- Energy analysis and optimization
- Collaborative design workflows
Mechanical Maintenance – Mentions: 85
Mechanical Maintenance encompasses the skills and knowledge required to inspect, service, repair, and optimize mechanical equipment and systems to ensure reliable operation and prevent failures. Mechanical maintenance skills appear in 3.4% of job listings and this skill set includes:
- Preventive maintenance planning
- Troubleshooting mechanical failures
- Understanding of maintenance technologies
- Equipment optimization strategies
- Safety and compliance procedures
Developing Your Mechanical Engineering Skills Portfolio for the Global Market
To maximize employability in the global mechanical engineering sector, consider these strategic approaches:
Certification and Formal Training
Many of the top mechanical engineering skills identified in our research have associated certification programs. Employers often look favorably upon formal qualifications such as:
- SOLIDWORKS Certified Professional (CSWP)
- AutoCAD Certified Professional
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- ASME Certifications (various specialties)
- Six Sigma Green/Black Belt
Practical Application and Portfolio Development
Beyond certification, practical demonstration of skills through:
- Personal engineering projects with detailed documentation
- CAD model portfolios showcasing design complexity
- Case studies of problem-solving achievements
- Quantifiable improvements implemented in previous roles
- Open-source hardware contributions
Conclusion
The mechanical engineering landscape continues to evolve with increasing emphasis on digital design tools, simulation capabilities, and project management skills. By focusing on in-demand skills like SOLIDWORKS, CAD proficiency, and analysis tools, aspiring mechanical engineers can position themselves for success. Remember that technical proficiency should be balanced with project management abilities and industry knowledge, as these are equally valued in modern engineering environments.
To become a mechanical engineer or advance your career, continually update your skills, engage in practical projects, and stay informed about industry trends. With the right combination of design expertise, analysis capabilities, and professional skills, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the diverse and rewarding field of mechanical engineering.
The mechanical engineering job outlook remains positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting steady growth in the coming years. Mechanical engineers are in demand across various sectors, from traditional manufacturing to cutting-edge research and development in areas like renewable energy and automation.
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