Mechanical Engineering

Build Your Mechanical Engineering Career in the United States

To work as a Mechanical Engineer in the United States, whether you're a US citizen or an international/foreign student, you must meet specific education, licensing, and immigration requirements.

Mechanical Engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices. The profession offers diverse opportunities in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, and many other industries.

Educational Requirements:

  • US students must complete a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Foreign students studying in the US must be accepted into an ABET-accredited mechanical engineering program and obtain appropriate student visa status (F-1, J-1).
  • Foreign students, educated outside the US must have their foreign engineering degree evaluated for equivalency to US standards through organizations like NCEES or ABET.

Professional Licensing (PE) Requirements:

  1. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to become an Engineer in Training (EIT).
  2. Gain 4 years of progressive engineering experience under a licensed Professional Engineer.
  3. Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam in mechanical engineering.
  4. Apply for PE licensure in the state where you plan to practice.
  5. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and may need additional work authorization (H-1B visa, Green Card, etc.).
  6. Foreign-educated engineers may need to complete additional coursework or pass supplementary exams to meet US engineering standards.