Machine designer, university engineer

What does a Mechanical Engineer in Mechanical Engineering do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A mechanical engineer in mechanical engineering works on developing, designing, and improving machines, components, and technical systems. Tasks include creating drawings and models in CAD software, analyzing and optimizing machine parts for functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The work is often project-based, collaborating with other engineers, technicians, and sometimes clients. The work environment is mainly office-based but can also include testing and prototype development in workshops or factories. Close collaboration across departments is common, and the profession requires both analytical skills and good communication.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary development for a mechanical engineer, Bachelor's degree, has been positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,500 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 43 700 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 5.3%. By 2024, the salary has continued to rise to 45 300 SEK, a further increase of over 3.6%. This trend reflects a continued high demand for engineers in mechanical engineering, where technical competence and experience are highly valued. Salary increases are also linked to increased demands for digital and sustainability-related skills as the industry develops toward more advanced and energy-efficient solutions. There is also a clear salary variation depending on education level, sector, and experience.

Mechanical Engineer, Bachelor's Degree Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 45 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 SEK (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 68,000 SEK (female, municipal sector, research education)
• Highest salary for men: 50,500 SEK
• Lowest salary for men: 39,900 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 272 SEK
• Men earn: 45 600 SEK
• Women earn: 43 200 SEK
• Women’s salary as percentage of men’s: 95%

Education and Qualifications

To work as a mechanical engineer with a Bachelor's degree, a three-year university engineering degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field is generally required. The education combines theoretical subjects such as mechanics and materials science with practical components in design and CAD. Internships or thesis work within industry provide valuable experience and can be crucial for first employment. In addition to formal education, knowledge of modern design tools and the ability to work project-oriented are often demanded.

• Bachelor’s degree: 3 years, in mechanical engineering or similar
• Experience with CAD software: Usually SolidWorks, Inventor, or CATIA
• Internship/thesis work: Recommended during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility + special eligibility in mathematics and physics
• Additional courses: Project management, strength of materials, materials technology

Common Benefits and Compensation

Mechanical engineers in mechanical engineering are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work depending on the employer. Further, professional development, paid training, and sometimes bonuses linked to projects or company results are common. The extent of benefits varies between private and public sectors.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a mechanical engineer, Bachelor's degree, is currently moderate to low, especially for candidates with the right specialized skills and experience with modern design tools. However, the industry is influenced by economic cycles and technological development, where demands for digitization and sustainability can change over time. A challenge is to stay updated on new materials, manufacturing methods, and software. Another challenge is to quickly adapt to new projects and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Salary disparities depending on gender and education level also exist, which can impact motivation and career choices.

Tips for Aspiring Mechanical Engineers in Mechanical Engineering

To succeed as a mechanical engineer with a Bachelor's degree, it is good to be meticulous and analytical, as problem-solving and technical calculations are central to the work. An interest in technology and innovation facilitates the development of new solutions, and a communicative personality makes it easier to collaborate in project teams and explain technical concepts to others. Familiarity with various CAD tools early on is advisable, as these are industry standards, and taking advantage of internships or thesis opportunities helps build networks and understanding of working life. Keeping up-to-date on new materials and techniques provides an advantage, and some perseverance is required to drive projects to completion even when obstacles arise. Finally, the ability to work structured and handle multiple tasks simultaneously is important for thriving and developing in the role.

Key Facts about Mechanical Engineer, Bachelor's Degree

• Education level: Bachelor's degree, 3 years
• Occupational group: Engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering
• Work environment: Office-based, often project-based
• Gender distribution: Salary differences, women earn 95% of men's salary
• Available jobs: 564 within the occupational group according to latest data

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After 3–5 years as a mechanical engineer, there are opportunities to take greater responsibility, such as technical project manager, specialist in design, or development engineer. It is also common to progress towards roles in product development, quality assurance, or production technology. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that the profession is part of a broad occupational group with currently no detailed assessment of the labor market due to limited data. However, there are 564 available jobs in the group, indicating continued high demand for technical competence in mechanical engineering. For those wishing to advance further, additional education, such as a Master of Science in Engineering or leadership training, can open doors to managerial and specialist roles.

Common Questions about Mechanical Engineer, Bachelor's Degree

• What does a Mechanical Engineer, Bachelor's degree earn?
  - The average salary is 45 300 SEK per month, with variations between 37,000 SEK and 68,000 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 43 200 SEK while men earn 45 600 SEK, which means women have 95% of men's salary in the profession.
• What education is required to become a mechanical engineer in mechanical engineering?
  - A three-year Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent is required, preferably supplemented with practical training and CAD skills.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Salary differences may occur between regions, but the current average salary applies nationwide.
• What are the future prospects for mechanical engineers?
  - The profession is part of a broad occupational group with currently 564 available jobs, but no detailed forecast can be provided due to limited data.
• What tasks does a mechanical engineer perform?
  - Tasks include designing, developing, and improving machines and technical systems, often in project form using CAD tools.
• What is the hourly wage for a mechanical engineer, Bachelor's degree?
  - The average hourly wage is 272 SEK for a hourly-paid worker in the profession.