What can I do with a degree in Mechatronics Engineering?

Mechatronics engineering graduate Angus Watson

Mechatronics Engineering is the efficient and effective integration of mechanical systems and electronics, and intelligent control. Mechatronics engineers employ precision engineering, control theory, computer science, mathematics and sensor technology to design enhanced or 'smart' products, processes and systems. Examples of mechatronic systems include aircraft, dishwashers, toys, motor vehicles, automated manufacturing plants, medical and surgical devices, robots of all types and artificial organs. Almost everywhere you look you will see a mechatronic system.

During the coming decades we will see an explosion of these automated systems further infiltrating our lives. Already mechatronic systems are utilised in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, communication, transport, medicine, service, energy and smart farming.

What skills have our graduates gained?

Through their Mehatronics Engineering degree, graduates develop a valuable set of skills that are transferable to a range of careers, including:

Analytical, logical and quantitative thinking
Practical application of engineering technology and science
Problem solving that applies to real world challenges
Creativity and innovation
Mechanical and computing abilities
Broad knowledge of a range of engineering disciplines.

Students undertake 800 hours of practical work experience as part of this engineering degree, providing them with a good understanding of industry and the confidence to apply their skills at work.

Where have our graduates been employed?

Mechatronics engineers work in industries such as:

Recent UC graduates have found roles in:

Information, media and telecommunications eg, Telogis, Flightcell International
Manufacturers eg, Dynamic Controls, Fisher & Paykel, CSR, Abiliquip, Attocube Systems
Roboticis eg, Invert Robotics
Professional, scientific and technical services eg, Dynamic Controls, Telogis, Scott Technology, Aeronavics
Technology development eg, Syft Technologies, Tiro Medical
Engineering consultants eg, Controlweb Ltd, Beta Solutions
Automation companies eg, Macro Automation, Street Automation
Smart technologies and network companies eg, Aviat Networks, Unison networks
E-commerce eg, eStar
Software companies eg, Wireless Guard, Wynyard Group
Aviation, aeronautics and defence eg, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Altitude Aerospace
Electricity and energy services eg, Beca, Mainpower
Research institues eg, Scion, Auckland UniServices
Government eg, Ministry of Economic Development

What jobs and activities do our graduates do?

Mechatronics Engineering graduates are well prepared to join the technological revolution - see some examples of career options below.

Note: Some of the jobs listed may require postgraduate study. See the ‘Further study’ section.

Mechatronics engineer

Uses mechanical, computer and controls knowledge to design and create products
Researches components of design
Tests products for efficiency and adaptability

Robotics technician, roboticist

Works in teams to desgn and develop robots
Tests robotic operations and processes
Services and maintains robotic functioning

Software engineer

Analyses customer needs, evaluations computer software and researches new technologies
Develops software progrmaes for new products
Manages software development projects

Industrial designer, product designer, product development engineer

Researches a client's brief, an organisational or social need, or a gap in the market
Prepares drawings, models and proposals for new product improvements
Designs and produces a prototype
Tests the prototype, ergonomics and investigates patents

Mechanical/control systems engineer

Assists in the development of products using drafting tools or computer software
Designs testing control equipment
Researches and advises on design modifications to resolve problems

Programmer, software developer

Determines specifications and writes code
Builds prototypes of software programs
Tests and fises computer programs and systems
Maintains and upgrades programs and systems
May develop and integrate technical aspects of websites/mobile apps

Mechanical engineer

Investigates and optimises the use of energy, machinery and materials
Designs products and processes
Advises on the design, fabrication and repair of various equipment

Mechanical design engineer

Designs power machinery
Uses computer software to create visual plans
Assists in testing machinery

Project engineer, project manager

Manages project plan, times, costs, compliance
Manages procurement, purchasing, contracts
Liaises with project staff and clients

Avionics/flight engineer

Manages avionic development projects
Oversees a part's lifecycle, from idea to launch
Designs and tests the project prototype
Manages workflows and issues

Patent examiner

Researches to assess if a product is new/unique
Maintains knowledge of laws and regulations
Writes patent applications for new inventions
Advises businesses, government and industry

Automation engineer

Designs and programs high-tech computer-controlled equipment for industrial processes
Identifies and fixes machine issues

Entrepreneur and CEO

Develops an idea to form their own business
Gets involved in a start-up
Offers their servcies as a consultant

What professional bodies do our graduates link to?

As they progress, students and graduates often join professional bodies or organisations relevant to their area of interest. These organisations can provide regular communications and offer the chance to network.

Social media networks such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter can provide avenues to keep up-to-date with industry knowledge, networking opportunities, events and job vacancies.