Join the growing field of mechanical engineering. Discover what mechanical engineers do, where they work, what skills they need, and how TailorMinds can help you land your next job.
Table of Contents
What is a mechanical engineer?
A Mechanical Engineer is a technical expert who designs, builds, maintains, and optimizes mechanical systems and components across a wide range of industries—including pharmaceuticals, food, medical devices, energy, and high-tech manufacturing. From HVAC systems in cleanrooms to precision robotics on the production floor, mechanical engineers ensure machinery and systems perform safely, efficiently, and reliably. Their role bridges technical problem-solving, hands-on maintenance, and strategic system design. Mechanical engineers work at the intersection of engineering design, compliance, sustainability and innovation.
What does a mechanical engineer do?
In a typical pharmaceutical or food production setting, a mechanical engineer starts the day by reviewing equipment performance, ongoing issues, or planned maintenance. They check critical systems such as HVAC units, WFI loops, and production machinery, quickly addressing any technical problems that come up.
Much of the day involves updating documentation, such as maintenance logs, CAPAs, or validation reports. They often support qualification activities (like IQ/OQ/PQ) or help plan equipment upgrades.
Afternoons are usually spent on projects or preventive maintenance, working closely with QA, production, and sometimes external vendors. They also manage spare parts and ensure systems stay in compliance with GMP standards. It’s a hands-on role that blends problem-solving with strict regulatory focus.
Types of mechanical engineering jobs
Mechanical offers a wide spectrum of specializations. Depending on the industry and project requirements, Depending on the sector, mechanical engineers can focus on:
Design Engineer
A Design Engineer is responsible for creating the mechanical structure and functionality of components, systems, or entire products using CAD tools like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. They develop technical drawings and 3D models, considering materials, tolerances, and performance to ensure the design meets both function and manufacturability standards. These engineers often work closely with manufacturing and testing teams.
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineers focus on optimizing production processes and improving efficiency, safety, and quality on the shop floor. They develop workflows, analyze bottlenecks, implement lean manufacturing techniques, and often work directly with machinery and tools to ensure that production is cost-effective and consistent.
Maintenance Engineer
A Maintenance Engineer ensures mechanical equipment and systems operate reliably and efficiently. They plan and execute preventive maintenance, diagnose equipment failures, and lead repairs or upgrades. Their goal is to reduce downtime and extend equipment life, often using tools like CMMS for maintenance planning and tracking.
Project Engineer
Project Engineers manage mechanical engineering projects from concept to completion. They coordinate between teams, monitor budgets and schedules, and ensure technical specifications and safety regulations are met. Their role is both technical and managerial, often requiring collaboration with vendors and contractors.
R&D Engineer
Research and Development Engineers work on innovation, developing new technologies, materials, and mechanical systems. They conduct experiments, analyze test results, and refine concepts into working prototypes. Their work is essential in industries that rely on continuous innovation, such as automotive, medical devices, or energy.
Quality Engineer
A Quality Engineer in mechanical engineering ensures that products meet design and industry standards. They conduct inspections, audits, and root cause analyses to address non-conformities. Their role includes implementing quality systems and using tools like FMEA or Six Sigma to ensure consistent product performance.
Test Engineer
Test Engineers design and conduct experiments to validate the performance, durability, and safety of mechanical products. They create test plans, collect data, and analyze results to confirm that systems meet required specifications. This role is critical in industries like aerospace and automotive where safety and compliance are non-negotiable.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers integrate mechanical components into larger systems, ensuring all parts function together efficiently. They work on requirement definition, interface design, and system-level validation. Their role requires a strong understanding of how mechanical systems interact with electrical and software components.
HVAC Engineer
HVAC Engineers design heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for buildings or industrial facilities. They calculate load requirements, select appropriate equipment, and ensure systems provide reliable indoor climate control. These engineers are vital in industries requiring cleanroom environments or temperature-sensitive operations.
Biomedical/Medical Device Engineer
Mechanical Engineers in the biomedical field design devices such as prosthetics, surgical tools, and diagnostic equipment. They must consider biocompatibility, ergonomics, and regulatory standards. This role blends precision mechanical design with deep awareness of human physiology and patient safety.
Mechatronics/Automation Engineer
A Mechatronics Engineer integrates mechanical systems with electronics, sensors, and control systems to automate machinery. They often develop robotic arms, assembly lines, or automated inspection systems. This interdisciplinary role requires skills in mechanics, electronics, and software.
Additive Manufacturing Engineer
Additive Manufacturing Engineers specialize in 3D printing technologies, focusing on design for additive processes and optimizing part geometry and strength. They work with advanced materials and often support rapid prototyping and custom part production across various industries.
Robotics Engineer
Mechanical Engineers in robotics design the mechanical parts of robotic systems such as joints, actuators, and end-effectors. They collaborate with control and software teams to build robots used in manufacturing, healthcare, or exploration. Their designs must balance mobility, strength, and precision.
Product Lifecycle Engineer (PLM)
Product Lifecycle Engineers manage the mechanical design and data of a product from concept through production and retirement. They coordinate change requests, maintain documentation, and ensure design updates are implemented properly across departments using PLM tools.
Required skills & qualifications
A successful Mechanical Engineer combines solid technical expertise with problem-solving ability, project coordination skills, and an understanding of regulatory and industry standards. While specific requirements vary by company and role, common qualifications include:
Educational Background
Most roles require at least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical field such as:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
A Master’s degree or specialization in areas like product design, thermal systems, or manufacturing systems engineering is often preferred for advanced or leadership positions.
Technical Knowledge
- Core Engineering Competencies
- Mechanical design and drafting (e.g., CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Creo)
- Material selection and stress/strain analysis
- Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, welding, additive manufacturing)
- Understanding of systems integration and electromechanical components
Standards and Regulatory Knowledge
- Familiarity with relevant ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 13485)
- Knowledge of industry-specific regulations (e.g., ASME codes, CE marking, FDA design controls for medical devices)
- Experience with risk assessments and safety standards (e.g., FMEA, HAZOP)
Project and Tool Proficiency
- Hands-on experience with prototyping and testing equipment
- Experience with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems
- Understanding of root cause analysis and continuous improvement tools
Soft Skills
- Strong technical writing and documentation skills
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Analytical thinking and structured problem-solving
- Ability to collaborate across departments (R&D, QA, production, procurement)
- Communication skills, including stakeholder engagement and reporting
- Interpersonal qualities: active listening, cross-functional coordination, time management, persuasion, and negotiation
Certifications (optional but beneficial)
- Professional Engineer (PE) license
- Lean Six Sigma certification (especially in manufacturing or process optimization)
- PMP (Project Management Professional) – useful for engineers leading design or development projects
- Training in tools like SolidWorks, ANSYS, MATLAB, or ERP systems (e.g., SAP)
Career paths & Growth opportunities
Mechanical engineers have excellent prospects for career advancement. As their experience grows, they may transition into more strategic, managerial, or specialized roles across a wide range of industries.
- Senior Mechanical Engineer: Taking on more complex design or engineering projects, leading technical teams, and overseeing the development or optimization of mechanical systems and processes.
- Engineering Manager: Managing a team of engineers, coordinating multidisciplinary projects, overseeing timelines and budgets, and aligning engineering activities with broader business objectives.
- Project Manager: Moving into roles focused on planning and executing engineering projects, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring project delivery within scope, time, and quality constraints.
- Specialist or Consultant: Providing expert mechanical engineering services—such as system design, thermal analysis, or automation—either independently or through engineering consultancy firms, often across multiple sectors like manufacturing, energy, or medical devices.
- Training and Development: Focusing on mentoring and training new engineers, developing technical training programs, and ensuring teams are proficient in industry standards, design tools, and regulatory compliance.
As they progress in their careers, mechanical engineers can also transition into related fields such as aerospace, automotive, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or renewable energy—industries that value strong engineering foundations. Continuous professional development, such as obtaining certifications in project management, Six Sigma, or advanced mechanical design, can further enhance career growth and open up leadership opportunities.
Working as a mechanical engineer in The Netherlands
Industry Presence
The Netherlands is a leading hub for innovation in high-tech engineering, life sciences, sustainable energy, and advanced manufacturing. This makes it a key location for mechanical engineering roles across various industries. Mechanical engineers are in demand in sectors such as:
Pharmaceuticals & Life Sciences
- Equipment and system design for drug manufacturing
- Facility layout and process optimization
- Support in maintenance, reliability, and HVAC systems
- Automation and mechanical integration in cleanroom environments
Medical Devices
- Design and development of implantable and diagnostic devices
- Prototyping, mechanical testing, and product validation
- Precision mechanics and micro-engineering
- Compliance with regulatory and design control standards (e.g., FDA, ISO 13485)
Biotechnology
- Mechanical design for bioprocessing and lab automation systems
- Equipment used in cell therapy and biologics production
- Custom machinery for purification and fermentation processes
Food and Dairy
- Design of production and packaging equipment
- Process optimization and equipment reliability engineering
- HVAC, refrigeration, and fluid systems for food safety compliance
- Mechanical innovation in automation and logistics systems
High-Tech Systems & Manufacturing
- Semiconductor and nanotechnology equipment design
- Mechatronics and robotics in precision manufacturing
- Thermal and structural analysis of high-performance components
- Systems integration and custom machinery design for automation
Job Market & Demand
There is steady demand for mechanical engineers, especially those with experience in automation, mechatronics, cleanroom design, and system integration. As industries adopt smart manufacturing and robotics, engineers with digital and cross-disciplinary skill sets are especially sought after. Roles in maintenance, equipment design, and process improvement are also in high demand across both regulated and non-regulated sectors.
Regulatory Environment
While not all roles require regulatory knowledge, engineers working in GMP-regulated industries (e.g., pharma, biotech, and food) must be familiar with:
- EU GMP standards (if involved in equipment used in regulated production)
- Health & safety regulations (Arbowet – Dutch Working Conditions Act)
- CE marking and European Machinery Directives (for equipment design and compliance)
Engineers working in cleanroom environments or designing critical utilities (e.g., HVAC, WFI systems) are often involved in validation and compliance processes.
Language & Workplace Culture
English is widely used as the working language in engineering roles, particularly in international companies. Dutch language skills are beneficial for integration and communication with local teams but are not always required.
Future Outlook
- Growing focus on automation, robotics, and digital twins in manufacturing
- Increased investment in green energy and sustainable system design
- Rising demand for engineers with experience in additive manufacturing and AI-integrated systems
- Expansion of the biotech and advanced therapy sectors, requiring cleanroom and equipment expertise
Mechanical engineer salary
Salaries for mechanical engineers in the Netherlands vary depending on experience, education level, and the specific responsibilities of the role. Entry-level engineers can expect a monthly gross salary of around €3,000 while experienced professionals may earn up to €6,500 per month (gross).
Junior engineers (0–3 years of experience) typically handle technical documentation, support maintenance tasks, and assist with installation or qualification. Their salary range is usually between €3,000 and €4,000 per month (gross)
Senior engineers (5+ years) often manage larger projects, lead preventive maintenance programs, and interface with regulatory bodies or external contractors. In these roles, salaries can range from €5,000 to €6,500 or more, especially when combined with project responsibilities or team leadership.
Additional benefits may include holiday allowances, travel expenses, training budgets, and performance bonuses—especially when working for larger employers or through agencies like TailorMinds.
Why choose Tailorminds?
At TailorMinds, we connect mechanical engineers with top employers in The Netherlands and beyond. Whether you’re just starting or looking for your next challenge, we offer tailored support to help you grow. Our services include:
- Personalized career guidance
- Access to exclusive job opportunities
- Support during onboarding and relocation
- Continued coaching throughout your assignment
We understand the nuances of the life sciences industry and help you match your skills to the right role.
Meet us!
Sander Pupella
Operations Manager
Peter Debrichy
Recruitment Consultant
FAQ
Mechanical engineers are in high demand across various sectors in the Netherlands, including:
- High-tech systems (e.g., ASML, Philips)
- Medical device and healthcare technology
- Energy and renewables (e.g., offshore wind, hydrogen systems)
- Aerospace and automotive
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology equipment
- Food and dairy processing machinery
- Semiconductor and precision manufacturing
The Dutch engineering ecosystem is highly innovative, offering opportunities from R&D and design to manufacturing and project execution.
Not necessarily. Many multinational companies, especially in high-tech and engineering sectors, operate in English. However, learning Dutch can:
- Help in smaller or more locally focused companies
- Improve integration into teams and company culture
- Open up additional career opportunities
- Be advantageous when working in production environments or with suppliers
TailorMinds supports mechanical engineers by:
- Matching candidates with suitable engineering roles across sectors
- Assisting with CV optimization and interview preparation
- Providing guidance on relocation and housing (if moving to the Netherlands)
- Offering ongoing career support and development advice
- Supporting professional growth toward senior or specialist roles
Yes. Many mechanical engineers transition into leadership roles such as:
- Team Lead or Project Manager
- Engineering Manager
- Product Development Manager
- Operations or Technical Director
Advancing to management typically involves gaining experience, improving communication and coordination skills, and optionally obtaining certifications like PMP or Lean Six Sigma.
While a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering is essential, other valuable qualifications include:
- CAD and simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS)
- Knowledge of ISO, CE, or FDA standards
- Experience with product lifecycle management (PLM)
- Certifications in project management or continuous improvement
Yes. The Netherlands has a strong demand for skilled international professionals. Employers often help with:
- Work/residence permits
- 30% tax ruling (a tax benefit for highly skilled migrants)
- Relocation packages and housing support
