Mechanical Engineers - Occupations - VTC Occupation Dictionary

Descriptions & Duties

Mechanical Engineers research into mechanical engineering problems, design and advise on mechanical plant and equipment. They are responsible for planning and supervising the development, manufacture, construction, installation, operation, maintenance and repair of the mechanical plant and equipment.

Generic Competencies

Physical abilities

Technology
skills

Cognitive
abilities

Comprehension and expression

Social skills

Organisation and execution skills

Problem
solving skills

Management
skills

Physical Abilities

Physical abilities

Physical strength
Eye hand coordination / precision / dexterity

Importance:3 (Max:5)

Skill is basically required

Technology Skills

Technology skills

Computer literacy
Application of technology

Importance:4 (Max:5)

Skill is frequently required

Cognitive Abilities

Cognitive abilities

Creativity
Visualisation
Logical thinking

Importance:3 (Max:5)

Skill is basically required

Comprehension And Expression

Comprehension and expression skills

Reading comprehension
Oral / written expression

Importance:3 (Max:5)

Skill is basically required

Social Skills

Social skills

Communication
Negotiation
Persuasion

Importance:4 (Max:5)

Skill is frequently required

Organisation And Execution Skills

Organisation and execution skills

Planning
Organising
Judgement
Decision making

Importance:5 (Max:5)

Skill is required all the time

Problem Solving Skills

Problem solving skills

Ability to solve simple and complex problems effectively and efficiently

Importance:5 (Max:5)

Skill is required all the time

Management Skills

Management skills

Leadership
Management of finance / time / people / other resources

Importance:4 (Max:5)

Skill is frequently required

Trade Specific Competencies

Professional knowledge and skills in mechanical engineering

Mechanical Engineers have to apply engineering concepts and mechanical processes to the design of new devices.

Project management knowledge and skills

Mechanical Engineers often work on projects with other engineers and professionals. They must analyse different approaches to handle the task at hand.

General Requirements

Academic qualification

Normally have a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering related discipline. Holders of relevant higher diplomas can articulate to related degree programmes.

Professional qualification