Earn $90,000 Working in the United States as a Mechanical Engineer with Visa Sponsorship
Earn $90,000 Working in the United States as a Mechanical Engineer with Visa Sponsorship
Mechanical engineering stands among the strongest and most respected career paths in the world. The United States holds one of the largest engineering industries on the planet, and companies across the country search for skilled mechanical engineers every year. The demand grows because industries expand, infrastructure projects increase, and technology continues to evolve. These factors create huge opportunities for international mechanical engineers who want strong income, long-term stability, and full visa sponsorship.
Many American companies no longer find enough qualified local talent, so they turn to global professionals with strong math, physics, and design knowledge. They offer competitive salaries that often start at $90,000 per year and include additional benefits such as relocation support, travel coverage, and stable career growth. If you dream about building a strong engineering career in the United States, this guide gives you everything you need to know.
This article explains the job market, salary expectations, visa pathways, skill requirements, top hiring industries, and the exact steps to apply successfully.
Why Mechanical Engineers Earn $90,000 or More in the United States
Mechanical engineers bring unique skills to energy systems, aviation, manufacturing, construction, robotics, transportation, and defense. The United States relies heavily on these industries, so companies compete for qualified engineers.
Several factors push salaries near or above $90,000:
1. Rapid Infrastructure Expansion
Roads, bridges, airports, power plants, HVAC systems, and industrial facilities grow constantly. Engineers design and maintain these structures, so their expertise drives high demand.
2. Growth in Energy and Sustainability
The shift toward clean energy and efficient systems increases the need for mechanical engineers who can design turbines, heating systems, cooling systems, and energy-saving machines.
3. Rise of Automation and Robotics
Factories want smarter machines, faster production lines, and improved safety. Mechanical engineers build the systems that make these improvements possible.
4. High National Demand
Thousands of engineers retire every year. Companies need younger talent who can fill these roles immediately.
5. Increased Specialty Requirements
Engineers with advanced skills in CAD, simulation, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, renewable energy, mechatronics, and robotics receive higher salaries.
Salary Breakdown for Mechanical Engineers in the United States
Salaries vary by industry, experience level, and location. Below is a clear breakdown of typical earning levels:
Entry Level Engineers
Income ranges from $65,000 to $85,000 depending on city and employer size.
Mid Level Engineers
Income ranges from $90,000 to $110,000 once the engineer gains strong hands-on experience and technical depth.
Senior Engineers
Income ranges from $115,000 to $150,000 for engineers who manage teams or work on advanced design systems.
Specialized Engineers
Engineers who work in aerospace, robotics, energy, or medical device design earn even more due to advanced technical demands.
Contract and Field Engineers
Contract engineers and field engineers earn from $90,000 to $140,000 because of overtime, travel allowances, and project-based work.
Industries Hiring Mechanical Engineers with Visa Sponsorship
Mechanical engineers support many sectors in the United States. Below are the strongest industries that hire international engineers.
Aerospace and Aviation
Companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, GE Aerospace, and SpaceX hire engineers who understand aerodynamics, propulsion, structural design, and testing.
Automotive and Electric Vehicles
Tesla, Ford, General Motors, Rivian, and Lucid Motors search for engineers who can design engines, electric motors, batteries, transmission systems, and safety components.
Manufacturing and Industrial Plants
Factories need engineers who can design production systems, manage maintenance operations, and improve efficiency.
Energy and Power
Energy companies hire engineers for oil and gas, wind power, solar systems, nuclear plants, and energy efficiency projects.
Robotics and Automation
Tech and robotics companies want engineers who can design machines that perform precision tasks in factories, hospitals, and distribution centers.
Construction and HVAC
Construction firms hire engineers who design heating systems, cooling systems, plumbing systems, and mechanical layouts for buildings.
Medical Devices
Engineers help design machines for surgeries, diagnostics, and patient care.
Renewable Energy
Wind farms, solar fields, hydro plants, and green energy firms hire engineers who understand sustainability and clean systems.
Top Companies That Sponsor Mechanical Engineers
Many large U.S. companies support international engineers. Below is a strong list of employers:
Manufacturing and Industrial
Caterpillar
John Deere
Honeywell
Siemens
Emerson
Aerospace and Defense
Lockheed Martin
Northrop Grumman
Raytheon
Blue Origin
Boeing
Automotive and EV
General Motors
Tesla
Ford
Rivian
Lucid Motors
Energy
Schlumberger
ExxonMobil
Chevron
NextEra Energy
GE Power
Robotics
Boston Dynamics
ABB Robotics
Rockwell Automation
Kuka Robotics
Engineering Consulting Firms
Jacobs
AECOM
Fluor
KBR
Bechtel
All these companies hire international engineers, offer relocation support, and sponsor work visas for qualified applicants.
CHECK: Best Countries to Work Abroad and Earn in USD, GBP, or CAD | High Paying Jobs & Visa Opportunities
Visa Pathways for Mechanical Engineers in the United States
Foreign engineers can work legally in the United States through several visa types. Each pathway fits different situations, experience levels, and employer requirements.
H1B Visa
The most common visa for engineers. Employers file the application after offering the job. Candidates need a relevant engineering degree.
TN Visa
Available to engineers from Mexico and Canada under the USMCA agreement.
EB3 Skilled Worker Visa
This gives engineers a direct path to U.S. permanent residency. Many employers prefer this pathway because it helps retain long-term staff.
L1 Visa
This applies to engineers who currently work for a multinational company and relocate to a U.S. branch.
O1 Visa
This fits engineers with outstanding achievements or advanced expertise.
Required Skills for Mechanical Engineers in the United States
Mechanical engineers need strong technical and analytical skills. Below is a detailed list of important abilities that help you stand out.
Technical Skills
CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Creo
Simulation tools such as ANSYS, COMSOL, and MATLAB
Knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, dynamics, and material science
Experience in machine design and system modeling
Understanding of HVAC systems and energy systems
Knowledge of robotics, PLC systems, and automation
Experience with manufacturing methods such as CNC machining, injection molding, and 3D printing
Soft Skills
Strong communication
Leadership ability
Team collaboration
Problem solving
Attention to detail
Creative thinking
Project management
Additional Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
Master’s degree preferred in some industries
Professional certifications such as FE, PE, PMP, Six Sigma, or LEED
Benefits of Working as a Mechanical Engineer in the United States
Mechanical engineers enjoy strong career growth, financial stability, and a high quality of life.
High Income and Bonuses
Engineers earn competitive salaries and receive yearly bonuses, overtime pay, and profit-sharing options.
Career Advancement
Engineers can grow into roles such as engineering manager, design leader, project manager, or technical expert.
Modern Work Environment
Most companies use advanced machines, new technology, and strict safety standards.
Relocation Support
Employers offer flight tickets, temporary housing, transportation assistance, and settlement support.
Healthcare and Insurance
Engineers receive strong health insurance packages that include dental and vision coverage.
Retirement Plans
Employers offer 401(k) retirement programs with matching contributions.
Immigration Support
Many employers help engineers get permanent residency.
Where to Find Mechanical Engineering Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Job seekers can explore these trusted platforms:
General Job Boards
LinkedIn
Indeed
Glassdoor
ZipRecruiter
SimplyHired
Engineering Platforms
EngineerJobs
EnergyJobline
Engineering.com
TechCareers
Company Career Portals
Every major company lists visa-sponsored positions on its own website.
How to Apply for $90,000 Mechanical Engineering Jobs in the United States
Follow the steps below to increase your chances of securing a sponsored job.
1. Create a U.S. Style Resume
Highlight your engineering projects, software skills, leadership roles, and measurable results.
2. Gather All Educational Documents
Prepare your transcripts, degree certificates, professional licenses, and reference letters.
3. Strengthen Your Technical Skills
Learn advanced software tools such as SolidWorks, ANSYS, MATLAB, or Python.
4. Target Companies That Sponsor Engineers
Focus on organizations with a history of hiring international professionals.
5. Apply on Company Sites and LinkedIn
Upload your resume, customize your cover letter, and apply to open positions.
6. Prepare for Technical Interviews
Practice design problems, thermodynamics questions, and scenario-based engineering challenges.
7. Accept the Offer and Begin the Visa Process
The employer starts the visa application after you pass all interview rounds.
8. Relocate and Begin Onboarding
You receive support for housing, transportation, and documentation.
Final Thoughts
A career in mechanical engineering in the United States gives you strong income, long-term growth, and access to advanced technology. Many employers sponsor international engineers and offer salaries that start at $90,000. This opportunity gives you a chance to build a stable and rewarding life in a country that values innovation, talent, and technical expertise.
If you hold strong engineering knowledge and a passion for real-world problem solving, you can build a powerful future as a mechanical engineer in the United States.
