Salary Survey Report for Job: Mechanical Engineer

• Mechanical Engineers - Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of such equipment as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
• Commercial and Industrial Designers - Develop and design manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children's toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.

Engineering Degrees and Salaries

For anyone interested in earning a high salary, getting an engineering degree is a good first step. According to PayScale's College Salary Report, Undergraduate Engineering Degrees have a much higher earning potential than many other degrees. While chemical engineering majors rank highest for both starting and mid-career salary, mechanical engineering is also high on the list. Future engineers have numerous education options available to them, including Online Engineering Degrees.

As you plan your engineering career, keep in mind that completing a bachelor's degree in engineering could just be the first step in your education. It's true that undergraduate engineering degrees rank well in terms of salary potential, but earning a Master's Degree in Engineering could take your engineering salary to another level. View the chart on Mechanical Engineering Salaries by Degree to see what impact a higher engineering degree can have on salary. In general, earning a higher degree will lead to a higher salary. It can also lead to greater job options and provide leverage when Negotiating Salary offers. Of course, all engineering salaries will increase over time, regardless of education. This is shown in the Mechanical Engineering Salary by Experience chart, which outlines a mechanical engineer's median income over the course of 20 years.