Where can an entry level mechanical engineer get his foot in the door?
I've been looking for a job out of graduation for nearly nine months now. I have a Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Commerce with certifications in Solidworks, CAMWorks and Cosmos Flo Facility. I have one year of experience from my co-op jobs. I've applied to 300+ jobs and at least 15 recruiting agencies, but I get the distinct impression without at least 5 years experience (which 99% of jobs require), they don't even look at my resume. The head hunters contact me but then ignore me when they realize I don't have anything under my belt EXCEPT the degree (how noble, indeed, to only help others with the thought of a commission for physically). So, enough back tale. The question is this: HOW does an access level mechanical engineer get enough experience to be considered a "real" candidate? I'm willing to work technician jobs or other "low-level" (if you must call it that) positions, but even those seem to be few and far between and STILL want experience. Do NOT suggest to me I get a job at CVS or any job within foot distance for convenience. For an engineer, working 10 years at CVS and working 0 years in Commerce fields are the exact same thing. In other words, it's worthless time. If you have ever been in this boat before, please mention the fact. Misery likes company. Oh, and please note I am willing to accept pretty much any pay grade above 16 dollars an hour and work somewhere in the world. Literally anything is better than my current situation.
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Filed under Entry Level Engineering Jobs by on Apr 22nd, 2011. 
Comments on Where can an entry level mechanical engineer get his foot in the door?
I reckon you are just going to have to find some small place that is dirty and run by a tyrant…the places regular engineers with experience won’t touch. I speaking about Midwest USA…for other areas, places like this might not even exist. And then smile and bear it for as long can soubriquet it. Do whatever garbage they want you to do…your just looking for SOMETHING to go on your resume.
Speaking from the other side, we just hired a kid in nearly exactly your situation…straight out of college, been looking for a mechanical commerce job for 9 months. We are very disappointed with him..he can’t do anything, can’t design anything…has to be spoon fed everything and then complains about too much paperwork. He’s doing the paperwork because he can’t design anything. And this kid got excellent grades in school.
Companies don’t want to hire green kids like this original out of school…because the schools don’t seem to teach them anything that is useful in the real job world.
Unfortunately, you graduated at a really terrible time. There are so many veteran engineers out of work who will take a job for the same pay as a recent grad. Once the economy rebounds, it will be simpler to get in as an access level engineer.
My best suggestion is to get a job as an intern if you can. So when a full time commerce position becomes available, you can go into it.
Another option is to spend this time to get a masters. An MBA with an commerce degree can really take you places.
Excellent Luck!