In the midst of preparation for masters and the lengthy, hectic procedure of applying to shortlisted universities, candidates often spare little time to research job prospects after the masters than it deserves. Needless to say, it is one of the most important tasks to be done.
Job opportunities for mechanical engineers in USA after MS are numerous and it also happens to be one of the top paying MS streams in the country.
According to Bureau of Labour Statistics:
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The mean annual wage for Mechanical Engineers in the US is $95,560
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Job Growth of mechanical engineers is projected to be 4% from 2019 to 2029. This could add around an estimated 12,400 jobs.
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In 2020, approximately 293,960 Mechanical engineers were employed in the USA.
Jobs in USA for Mechanical Engineers: 10 Most Popular Job Titles
Let us now discuss the scope of mechanical engineering in USA. We begin by talking about the jobs for mechanical engineers in USA. The problem-solving and technical skills acquired during MS prepares them for success across fields. The degree not only offers roles in the technical field, but can also help students to work up towards leadership positions.
Some of the most popular jobs after MS in mechanical engineering in the US are given below along with an estimate of their average annual salary.
|
Designation |
Average Base Salary |
|
Mechanical Engineering Manager |
$1,00,000/ year |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
$83,568/ year |
|
Project Engineer |
$78,158/ year |
|
Manufacturing Engineer |
$77,679/ year |
|
Automation Engineer |
$89,848/ year |
|
Equipment Engineer |
$84,916/ year |
|
Robotics Engineer |
$91,723/ year |
|
Mining Engineer |
$85,186/ year |
|
Marine Engineer |
$87,997/ year |
|
Mechanical Design Engineer |
$78,741/ year |
Note: These salaries just provide an overview of the salary structure. The actual salaries may vary widely between industries, states and skill level of the employees.
Top Industries, Companies & Location Providing Job Opportunities for Mechanical Engineers in USA
A MS graduate in Mechanical can get a job if he/she is ready to take the extra effort required to crack the selection processes. Placements in the US after completion of masters are not provided by universities, therefore it is the student's responsibility to get a job by showcasing his knowledge and skills.
Mechanical engineering graduates are considered to be one of the most employable job streams.
According to U.S. News & World Report, Mechanical Engineers rank:
#1 in Best Engineering Jobs
#11 in Best STEM Jobs
#23 in 100 Best Jobs
Top Industries Offering Jobs in USA for Mechanical Engineers
The scope of mechanical engineering in USA is quite extensive. Therefore, Jobs for mechanical engineers in USA are available across a wide range of fields. According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, the top industries employing the maximum mechanical engineers are:
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Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services
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Machinery Manufacturing
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Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing
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Scientific Research and Development Services
A knowledge of these industries can help a student in identifying and targeting the right industries post-graduation.
Top Companies Hiring International Mechanical Engineering Graduates in USA
For international students, working post-graduation requires a different work visa. After your Optional Practical Training (OPT) expires, you must obtain a H-1B Visa which will allow you to continue working in the United States. However, since as an individual you are not allowed to apply for the H1-B visa yourself, you need to find companies in your field that are sponsoring H-1B Visas.
According to the 2021 H1B Visa Reports, following are the major companies in the mechanical field that recruit a significant number of international students. The companies can be a great place to start looking when searching for mechanical engineering jobs in USA for Indian freshers as well.
|
Company |
Average Salary |
|
Cummins |
$92,044 |
|
HCL America |
$85,340 |
|
Altair product Design |
$86,036 |
|
Rivian Automotive |
$124,930 |
|
Apple |
$146,951 |
|
FCA US |
$103,876 |
|
L&T Technology Services |
$84,523 |
|
Satyam-Venture Engineering Services Pvt. |
$68,858 |
|
Tech Mahindra |
$79,095 |
|
Cyient |
$71,105 |
Top Areas in USA for Mechanical Engineering Graduates
A very important factor that students might overlook in search of jobs after MS in US, is the location. Note that the Midwest is the major job market in the mechanical field with the highest concentration of jobs after MS in US Mechanical. Your location will definitely make a huge difference when it comes to seeking a job post-graduation.
US states that offer the greatest number of jobs after MS in US mechanical field are:
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Michigan
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California
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Texas
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Pennsylvania
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Ohio
Metropolitan areas with the highest employment level in Mechanical Engineers:
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Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI
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Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
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Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI
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New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA
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Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX
While most want to settle after studying in the US, it is not possible for all to get that opportunity. A few lucky ones manage to be transferred by their company to their Indian offices and this is exactly what one should aim for if not a permanent residency. It is not a bad deal at all as it gives you a certain advantage in the job market over other domestic candidates with your American degree and advanced hands-on learning experience. Ultimately, what you learn in those 5 years (2 years of Master's education and 3 years of work experience) will take you forward.
