What Is a Mechanical Designer and How to Become One
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What Does a Mechanical Designer Do?
As a mechanical designer, you use engineering and math principles to create the mechanical parts specifications for a project. Mechanical designers frequently use digital drawing software to design parts, make production notes, and test concepts before attempting to manufacture them. As a drafter, you may also work with engineers and designers to modify and update plans, generate engineering change notices, conduct design reviews, record needed changes, and help determine supply lines. Some mechanical designers spend a small amount of time traveling to job sites. Mechanical designers are also known as mechanical drafters, and you may need to search under both terms to find all relevant jobs.
How to Become a Mechanical Designer
The primary qualifications for this position are an associate degree in a field like computer-aided design and drafting and one year of experience designing mechanical products in a professional setting. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of this position requires familiarity with a variety of mechanical design components, a background in 3D modeling, and an understanding of fabrication and manufacturing techniques. Many details of this job are influenced by the employer and the type of products being made. For example, products designed for the military may need to meet standards for use in combat environments, while designs using rare or expensive materials often have to look for ways to minimize the use of rare components. Employers care about these details, so the more experience you have handling their specific challenges and limitations, the more likely you are to stand out from other applicants.
