SOC 17-2141
Mechanical Engineers
Risk Score
⚠️32/100
Moderate
US Employment
👥286,760
Total workers
Median Wage
💰$102K
$69K – $161K
Projected Growth
📈+9.1%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
🤖67/100
High exposure
💡 Mechanical Engineers face a risk score of 32/100 — 12 points below the national average of 44. With 67/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite strong projected growth. See our methodology →
💡 Workers in this field earn $102K ($56K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths →
🔍 AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 32/100, Mechanical Engineers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like simulation and digital twin automation are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 286,760 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in on-site problem-solving in variable physical conditions and novel engineering design for unprecedented challenges to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Mechanical Engineers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths →
⚠️ Top Risk Factors
Simulation and digital twin automation
AI-optimized manufacturing process design
Automated data interpretation and insight generation
🛡️ Tasks Safe from Automation
On-site problem-solving in variable physical conditions
Novel engineering design for unprecedented challenges
Safety-critical judgment in design review
Cross-disciplinary collaboration on complex projects
📊 vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
🔄 Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 84% |
| Electronics Engineers, Except Computer | 29 | $128K | 81% |
| Chemical Engineers | 30 | $122K | 79% |