You might have heard of the profession called "mechanical engineer," but it's possible you're not exactly sure what they do.
In this article, I'll briefly explain the job of a mechanical engineer in Japan
In particular, let's focus on the role of a mechanical design engineer.
Role of Mechanical Engineers
What is the job of a mechanical engineer?
Mechanical engineers, especially those in charge of design, primarily work on designing machines and products.
Specifically, they conceptualize the desired shape of the product or machine and then translate it into actual design drawings.
However, their tasks are not limited to design. They also have numerous responsibilities outside of design, such as liaising with manufacturing departments and explaining to clients.
Therefore, frequent communication with others is essential, making it challenging to work in silence.
Design Process
Now, let's briefly look at the process a design engineer goes through to complete a product:
- Receive requirements from the client.
- Conduct initial discussions and conceptualize a basic shape.
- Request the production of a sample and coordinate with the manufacturing department.
- Evaluate the sample and consolidate the results.
- Refine the design for mass production.
- Begin the setup for mass production, with engineers often present.
- Prepare documentation for approval and transition to the production phase.
As seen above, design engineers are involved in the process from the initial stages to mass production.
Moreover, collaboration with other departments and outsourced entities is often indispensable.
Difference from University Research
By now, you might have a clearer image of the actual work of a design engineer.
However, how is it different from university research?
Differences in Scale and Age Groups
What's the difference between university research and design tasks?
In design tasks, collaboration with people from various age groups and departments is necessary, emphasizing teamwork.
Compared to university days, the following communication skills become even more critical:
- Clearly convey requirements to others.
- Negotiate with others to get tasks done.
- Understand demands from clients or the manufacturing department and advance your work accordingly.
Sense of Urgency
In design tasks, there is a set delivery date for the product.
Meeting this deadline is of utmost importance.
Delaying it inconveniences customers and other departments.
Thus, maintaining a "meet the deadline" mindset is vital.
Practicality and efficiency are often prioritized over theoretical perfection.
Initiating the Next Action
In university research, the main focus might be on obtaining results and contemplating them.
However, in design tasks, it's crucial to quickly plan and execute the next action based on obtained results.
Therefore, initiative and problem-solving skills are essential.
How University Experience Can Be Useful
Lastly, let's consider how research experience in university can benefit design engineers:
Data Organization Skills
Mechanical engineers often need to organize and share a significant amount of evaluation results. The data organization skills cultivated in university can be invaluable in practical tasks.
Swift and accurate data organization makes it easier to grasp the project's progress.
Analytical Skills Regarding Results
Engineering tasks rarely go smoothly.
Unexpected results or issues arise often, making analysis vital.
The analytical skills honed during university research are extremely beneficial for design engineers.
The ability to analyze results and solve problems is essential.
Conclusion
I have briefly discussed the role of mechanical engineers.
Engineers in charge of design think about and realize the shapes of products and machines.
While the necessity of communication with many people makes solitary work challenging, the job's rewards are also significant.
The data organization and analytical skills from one's university days can be fully utilized.