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Mechanical Engineer
Industry: Energy
Area: Hydropower
Hydroelectricity is electricity obtained from hydropower. Most hydroelectric power comes from the potential energy of dammed water driving a water turbine and generator. Less common variations make use of water's kinetic energy or un-dammed sources such as tidal power. Hydroelectricity is a renewable energy source.These plants - which annually generate over 42 billion kilowatt-hours of energy are constantly maintained to retain their peak efficiencies and production capacities. Mechanical Engineers work on maintaining the generators and turbines assemblies, compressors and pumps.
Work Settings
Mechanical engineering and business are closely intertwined. Mechanical Engineers work in many different settings, most often as a matter of choice and career planning. They differ in the type of workplace, the problems to be solved, and work schedule. Early-career mechanical engineers tend to spend more time doing testing lab and field work than their more experienced colleagues. Some mechanical engineers work in the design centers and headquarters facilities of high-tech companies, some prefer working in the field, and some travel overseas to serve clients and to develop new markets for products and services.
Education
A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for any mechanical engineering job.
Job Outlook
Mechanical engineers are projected to have an average rate of employment growth through 2014.
Salary
According to a 2005 salary survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, bachelor's degree candidates in mechanical engineering received starting salary offers averaging $50,236 a year, master's degree candidates were offered $59,880, and Ph.D. candidates were offered $68,299.