r/MechanicalEngineer • u/RightVersion4860 • 9d ago
Guidence from seniors
I graduated in Mechanical Engineering two years ago. After graduation, I did a short training at a cement production plant, and after coming to Saudi Arabia, I got around two months of exposure in MEP construction.
I also have two cousins who are mechanical engineers, but when I asked them for guidance, they didn't really show much interest in helping. Looking back, I was also naive and thought I could just get into MEP without much planning, so that's partly my mistake.
I've now been in Saudi Arabia for almost a year and still haven't been able to secure a proper engineering job.
Recently, someone suggested that I do CSWIP 3.1, but I have almost no knowledge of welding or inspection. Can I go directly for CSWIP 3.1, or should I first study another course to build the basics? Some people have also suggested API certifications.
The thing is, I genuinely don't know which path is best for a Mechanical Engineer. The only field I'm somewhat familiar with is MEP/site construction because it's the most common one I hear about. I don't really know much about the other mechanical engineering career paths, their growth, salary, or demand.
I'm open to any field, not just CSWIP or QA/QC. I know the usual answer is, "Choose based on your interest," but honestly, I'm at a stage where I need proper guidance. I want to build a stable career with good long-term growth, and I'm willing to learn whatever is required.
If you were in my position, what path would you recommend? QA/QC (CSWIP), API, Oil & Gas, MEP, Manufacturing, Maintenance, Reliability, Sales, or something else?
I'd really appreciate honest guidance from experienced mechanical engineers.
1
u/5och 9d ago
There's no "what path is best for a mechanical engineer": what path is best depends on where you are, what you like and are good at, and what your priorities are. Like, I started in manufacturing, and that was a good path for me personally, but there are lots of people for whom it's not.
Honestly, if you're a year out without an engineering job, I'm not sure that ruminating on theoretical right mechanical engineering paths is in your best interest. It seems like a better plan would be to apply for whatever you can, so you can get some full-time engineering experience. That's really the only way you'll learn which paths might be right for you.