Average Senior Mechanical Engineer Salary

A senior mechanical engineer creates and improves mechanical and electrical systems for products. The engineer will be present for the planning, design, and development processes until the product is produced. Some parts of the products that are made by a mechanical engineer are the mechanical components, circuit boards, sensors, and electrical parts. Prototypes of designs will be created and tested by the mechanical engineer and the team, in order to make sure that the product operates as it should.

The engineer will be expected to come up with products that are durable, perform well, and are cost-effective for both the company and the consumer. The mechanical engineer may also be involved in coming up with factory processes to produce the products. After the product has hit the market, it is also necessary to follow up with clients to make sure that the product is working properly. If it is not, the engineer suggests what sort of corrections should be made. The engineer will also lead efforts about reviews of technical designs and data from field tests. The engineer may also be expected to come up with effective packaging designs.

Since this is a senior position, leadership skills will come in handy. Past experience as a manager or many years of experience in the field may need to be demonstrated. The senior mechanical engineer may lead the efforts of several team members. Strong computer skills are needed, including the ability to use 3D CAD. A minimum of a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in engineering is usually required. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Senior Mechanical Engineer Tasks

• Estimates time and cost to complete projects.
• Researches designs and makes recommendations based on appearance, safety, budget, and function.
• Performs engineering duties; develops, designs, and tests mechanical devices.
• Writes technical reports, handbooks, and bulletins for use by staff or customers.

San Francisco is home to an above-average pay rate for Senior Mechanical Engineers, 26 percent higher than the national average. Senior Mechanical Engineers can also look forward to large paychecks in cities like San Jose (+25 percent), Seattle (+16 percent), Houston (+12 percent), and Los Angeles (+8 percent). With compensation 12 percent below the national average, Milwaukee is not known for hefty paychecks and actually represents the lowest-paying market. A couple other locations with smaller-than-average paychecks include Orlando (8 percent lower) and Pittsburgh (6 percent lower).