Finding side hustles for mechanical engineers can be difficult. But not anymore!
Here, we’ll give you an in-depth guide to finding the best side of the world as a mechanical engineer, how to set up your business, build a client base, and so much more.
Let’s get into it!
Side Hustles for Mechanical Engineers’ Personal Picks
In the versatile field of mechanical engineering, several side hustles offer engaging and lucrative opportunities.
- Top Creative Pick: Engineering Photography
- Highest Earning Potential: Aerospace Consulting
- Most Innovative Opportunity: Engineering Vlogging
41 Great Side Hustles for Mechanical Engineers
Engineering Tuition
Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+
Teaching engineering subjects can be an excellent side hustle for mechanical engineers. Many students struggle with complex concepts and are willing to pay for extra help. You can offer your services through platforms like Chegg Tutors or Tutor.com. Not only will you earn a decent income, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of helping others understand engineering better. According to Indeed, tutors in the United States make an average of $24.10 per hour.
Mechanical Repairperson
Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+
Leverage your mechanical engineering skills by offering repair services. Whether it’s fixing appliances, repairing vehicles, or servicing machinery, your expertise can be valuable. Websites like TaskRabbit or Handy can connect you with people who need these services. Remember, your problem-solving ability and hands-on skills can translate into a profitable side hustle.
YouTube Tutoring
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
If you’re comfortable in front of a camera, consider creating educational content on YouTube. You can share your knowledge on various engineering topics or even provide career advice for aspiring engineers. YouTube ad revenue can be significant once you build a substantial following. Social Blade reports that successful educational channels can earn between $0.25 and $4.00 per 1000 video views.
Online Course Creation
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Creating and selling online courses is another great way to monetize your expertise. Platforms like Udemy or Coursera allow you to reach a global audience. You’ll create the course once and earn passive income whenever someone purchases it. According to Teachable, the average instructor earns $5,426 per online course.
Part-time Tutoring
Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+
Part-time tutoring can be a flexible and rewarding side hustle. Depending on your schedule, you can offer your services on evenings or weekends. Websites like Wyzant or Varsity Tutors can connect you with students who need help. Tutoring not only supplements your income but also keeps your knowledge fresh.
Contractor Jobs
Estimated Monthly Income: $4500
Taking on contract engineering jobs can provide a significant boost to your income. Websites like Upwork or Freelancer offer a platform where you can find such opportunities. Remember, these jobs allow you to apply your engineering skills in new contexts and industries.
Machine Shop Work
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
If you have access to a machine shop, consider offering your services. Whether fabricating parts, repairing machinery, or providing custom manufacturing, your skills can be highly sought after. Websites like MFG or ThomasNet can connect you with potential clients. This side hustle can allow you to get hands-on with projects while earning extra income.
Design Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+
Offering design consulting services can be a lucrative side hustle. Many companies are willing to pay for expert advice on their products or processes. Websites like Clarity.fm or Zintro can connect you with potential clients. As a consultant, you can work on diverse projects and make a significant impact.
3D Printing Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+
If you own a 3D printer, consider offering printing services. From prototypes to custom parts, there are many potential customers out there. Websites like 3D Hubs or Shapeways can help you find clients. This side hustle allows you to make money while playing with cool technology.
Prototyping Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Offering prototyping services can be a profitable side hustle for mechanical engineers. Inventors and companies often need prototypes before they go into full production. Websites like Protolabs or Xometry can connect you with potential clients. Helping bring ideas to life can be rewarding, both financially and personally.
Product Licensing
Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+
Product licensing is a fantastic side hustle for mechanical engineers. It involves developing a product, patenting it, and then licensing it to another company for production and sales. You’ll receive royalties in return. This can be a lucrative endeavor if your invention is successful. Websites such as InventRight provide guidance and resources for inventors looking to license their products.
Software Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Many mechanical engineers have a knack for software. Offering software consulting services can be a rewarding side gig. You could help businesses select the right software, implement it, and train their staff. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr are great platforms to start your freelance consulting business.
Technical Writing
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
If you have a way with words, consider technical writing. Mechanical engineers have specialized knowledge that can be valuable in producing manuals, how-to guides, and articles. Websites like Freelancer and ProBlogger Job Board often have technical writing gigs available.
Freelance Research
Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+
Freelance research involves conducting studies or investigations for various clients. Mechanical engineers could offer their expertise on projects related to engineering concepts, materials, or technologies. Websites like PeoplePerHour and FlexJobs can connect you with potential clients.
Blogging on Engineering
Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+
Starting a blog on engineering topics can be an enjoyable and profitable side hustle. Share your knowledge, experiences, and insights with a wider audience. Once you build a solid readership, you can monetize your blog through advertising, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. Platforms like WordPress and Blogger can help you get started.
CAD Design Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Mechanical engineers with CAD skills can offer design services. This could involve creating blueprints, 3D models, or simulations for clients. Websites like Cad Crowd and Guru are popular platforms for finding freelance CAD projects.
Engineering Podcasting
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
Why not start a podcast about engineering? Share your insights, interview industry experts, and discuss the latest trends in mechanical engineering. You can monetize through sponsorships and advertisements once you have a substantial listener base. Anchor and Podbean are popular podcast hosting platforms.
Patent Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+
With their technical expertise, mechanical engineers can provide valuable advice on patent applications. This could involve analyzing the feasibility of patenting an invention, preparing patent applications, or advising on patent disputes. Websites like SimplyHired and Glassdoor often list patent consulting jobs.
Drone Inspection Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+
Drone technology is rapidly advancing, and there’s a growing demand for drone inspection services. Mechanical engineers can leverage their skills to inspect infrastructure, real estate, or agricultural lands. Websites like DroneBase and Up Sonder allow drone pilots to find gigs.
Robotics Workshops
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
If you’re passionate about robotics, consider running workshops. You could teach students, hobbyists, or professionals about robotics design, programming, or operation. Websites like Meetup and Eventbrite can help you organize and promote your workshops.
Energy Auditing
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
Energy auditing involves assessing how much energy a home or building uses and recommending improvements. As a mechanical engineer, you have the technical knowledge to offer this service. Websites like HomeAdvisor and Thumbtack connect service professionals with clients.
Home Inspection Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
One of the great side hustles for mechanical engineers is to offer home inspection services. With your extensive knowledge of systems and structures, you can provide valuable insights to homeowners and potential buyers about the condition of a property. This could include checking the HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and structural integrity. You could also offer recommendations on improvements or repairs. Websites like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) can help you get started.
Safety Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Safety consulting is another lucrative side hustle where you can apply your engineering expertise. This involves assessing workplaces for potential hazards and recommending improved safety protocols. By offering such critical services, you can help businesses prevent accidents and comply with safety regulations. Resources like the Board of Certified Safety Professionals can offer guidance and certification.
Engineering E-books
Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+
If you have a knack for writing, creating engineering e-books can be rewarding. You can write about complex engineering concepts in a simplified, engaging manner, helping students and enthusiasts learn more about the field. Selling these e-books on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing can fetch you a decent income. In 2020, around 15.71% of published books were e-books, demonstrating the growing demand for digital reading materials.
Virtual Reality Design
Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+
Virtual reality design is an emerging field with huge potential. As a mechanical engineer, you can create immersive, realistic virtual environments for various industries like gaming, real estate, and education. With your knowledge of physics and mechanics, you can make these virtual experiences more authentic and engaging. Websites like Unity and Unreal Engine offer tools and platforms to start designing VR experiences.
Remote Sensing Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+
Remote sensing services involve collecting and interpreting data about an area or object from a distance, typically using satellite or aircraft technologies. This can be useful in various sectors, such as environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management. You can help organizations get the accurate, up-to-date information they need by offering these services. Platforms like ArcGIS can assist in processing and analyzing remote sensing data.
Equipment Testing
Estimated Monthly Income: $3800+
Equipment testing is another potential side hustle for mechanical engineers. This involves assessing the performance and safety of various types of machinery and equipment. Your expert judgment can help manufacturers improve their products and meet regulatory standards. Websites like the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) can provide further guidance on how to offer such services.
Engineering Webinars
Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+
Hosting engineering webinars is an excellent way to share your knowledge and expertise with a wider audience. You can cover various topics, from basic engineering principles to advanced techniques and innovations. Charging a small fee per attendee can quickly become a profitable side gig. Platforms like Zoom and WebEx can make hosting webinars easy and accessible.
Construction Consultation
Estimated Monthly Income: $4200+
As a mechanical engineer, you deeply understand materials, structures, and systems. Offering construction consultation services can allow you to apply this knowledge in practical ways, such as advising on building design, materials selection, and project management. Websites like the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) can provide resources and networking opportunities.
Industrial Design Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $4800+
Industrial design services involve creating functional, aesthetically pleasing products that meet market needs. As a mechanical engineer, you can use your skills in design, materials, and manufacturing processes to excel in this field. This could involve designing everything from furniture to consumer electronics. Websites like the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) can offer resources and community support.
Vehicle Inspection
Estimated Monthly Income: $3600+
Vehicle inspection can be a profitable side hustle for mechanical engineers. This involves checking vehicles for safety and performance issues and providing certifications for roadworthiness or pre-purchase assessments. Your expertise can help individuals ensure their vehicles are safe and reliable. Websites like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) can provide certifications and resources to get started.
Material Selection Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Mechanical engineers are highly knowledgeable in materials science, making them excellent consultants for businesses needing guidance on material selection. Engineers can provide insight into the best materials for different projects, considering factors like durability, cost, and sustainability.
Websites like Upwork or Freelancer can be a good start for finding consulting gigs.
Engineering Career Coaching
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
Given their experience and expertise, mechanical engineers can be career coaches for aspiring engineers. They can offer advice about education, job hunting, and industry trends.
Coach.me or LinkedIn can help you connect with individuals seeking career coaching.
Data Analysis Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+
Mechanical engineers often work with large data sets, making them adept at data analysis. They can offer their services to companies that need help interpreting complex data to make informed business decisions.
Sites like Fiverr or Upwork often have postings for data analysis jobs.
Sustainability Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+
With an increasing focus on sustainability, mechanical engineers can offer consulting services to help companies reduce their environmental impact. They can provide strategies for energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable design.
Envirogadget, or The Green Engineer, provides resources for sustainability consulting.
Engineering Photography
Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+
Combining their technical knowledge with artistic skills, some mechanical engineers might find success in engineering photography. This can involve photographing machinery, industrial processes, or engineering projects.
Shutterstock or Adobe Stock allows photographers to sell their images online.
Engineering Vlogging
Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+
With the popularity of video content, mechanical engineers can share their knowledge and experiences through vlogging. This could involve creating educational content, documenting engineering projects, or discussing industry trends.
Platforms like YouTube or Vimeo are popular for vlogging.
Quality Assurance Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+
Mechanical engineers have a keen eye for detail, making them well-suited for quality assurance roles. They can offer services to companies needing help ensuring their products meet certain quality and safety standards.
Indeed or Glassdoor often has postings for freelance QA jobs.
Manufacturing Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+
With their understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical engineers can provide valuable consulting services to manufacturing companies. They can advise on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and implementing new technologies.
Websites like MFG or Thomasnet provide resources for manufacturing consulting.
Aerospace Consulting
Estimated Monthly Income: $6000+
Consulting can be a lucrative side hustle for those with experience in the aerospace industry. They can guide aerospace design, production, and regulatory compliance.
AeroSpace-Technology or Aviation Week can be useful for keeping up with industry trends.
Automotive Engineering Services
Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+
Mechanical engineers with expertise in automotive systems can offer their services to car manufacturers, repair shops, or even individual car owners. This could involve anything from designing new car parts to troubleshooting mechanical problems.
Websites like AutoServiceJobs or Motor.com can be great places to find automotive engineering gigs.
Understanding Side Hustles for Mechanical Engineers
Side hustles are a great way to supplement your income, explore new areas of interest, and develop new skills. For mechanical engineers, many opportunities are available due to the broad range of skills and knowledge you possess. The possibilities are endless, from freelance consulting and design work to tutoring or even creating your mechanical-themed blog or YouTube channel.
The Importance of Side Hustles
A side hustle is not just about making extra cash (though that’s a big benefit!). It’s also about:
- Expanding your skill set: A side hustle can help you gain new skills that may enhance your primary career.
- Networking: Engage with professionals outside your regular circles. This could open up new opportunities and collaborations.
- Financial independence: A successful side hustle can provide a safety net or become a full-time job.
According to a study from Bankrate, 45% of working Americans report having a side hustle, which speaks volumes about its importance in today’s economy.
Balancing Your Time
The key to a successful side hustle is balance. Here are some tips:
- Set clear boundaries: Allocate specific hours to your side hustle without compromising your full-time job.
- Plan your time: Use tools like Google Calendar or project management apps like Asana to manage your schedule.
- Don’t overcommit: Start small and gradually increase your side hustle commitments as you become more comfortable.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. According to a study by Gallup, 79% of Americans feel stress sometimes or frequently during their day, and overworking can be a significant contributor.
Legal Considerations
Before starting your side hustle, it’s crucial to consider the legal aspects:
- Non-compete Agreements: Ensure your side hustle does not violate any contracts with your current employer.
- Intellectual Property: If creating something new, consider patting it to protect your rights.
- Tax Implications: Side hustle income must be reported on your taxes. Consider using apps like TurboTax to help manage this.
Always consult with a legal professional if you’re unsure. Per a Freelancers Union report, 54% of freelancers had client nonpayment issues due to a lack of legal understanding.
Tax Implications
Starting a side hustle as a mechanical engineer can be an exciting journey. But before you dive in, let’s talk about something not so thrilling yet crucial – taxes.
When you start earning money outside your regular job, it’s essential to understand the tax implications. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Your side hustle income is taxable. The IRS requires you to report all income, no matter how small.
- You may be eligible for deductions. These expenses can often be deducted if you’re using your own equipment or home office for your side hustle.
- Self-employment tax. As self-employed, you’re responsible for the employer and employee portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes.
To navigate these complexities, consulting with a tax professional is a good idea. Websites like TurboTax or H&R Block also provide resources to help you understand your tax obligations better.
Setting Up Your Business
Now that we’ve covered taxes let’s move on to setting up your business. As a mechanical engineer, you have unique skills that can be monetized in various ways. Here are some steps to get you started:
- Choose your niche: Decide what services you’re going to offer. This could be anything from freelance CAD design to machinery maintenance consultancy.
- Create a business plan: Outline your goals, target audience, and strategies for reaching potential clients. Websites like Bplans can help you with this.
- Register your business: Depending on your location and structure, you may need to register your business with the government.
- Open a business bank account: Separating your personal and business finances can save you many headaches come tax time.
- Get insured: Depending on your side hustle, you may need to consider business insurance to protect yourself from potential risks.
Marketing Your Services
This step in your side hustle journey is arguably the most important – marketing your services. Here are some tips:
- Build a website: An online presence is crucial in today’s digital world. Websites like WordPress or Wix can help you build a professional-looking website with little to no coding experience.
- Leverage social media: Platforms like LinkedIn can be a great way to connect with potential clients.
- Network: Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups to make connections in your field.
- Offer free consultations: This can effectively showcase your expertise and win over potential clients.
Marketing is all about building relationships and trust. Be patient and persistent, and your hard work will pay off.
Pricing Your Services
Regarding side hustles for mechanical engineers, one of the most crucial steps is determining how to price your services. It’s a delicate balance between charging what you’re worth and being competitive.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Understand your market: Research similar services in your area or online platforms to understand the going rates. Websites like Upwork and Freelancer can provide insights into what other professionals charge for similar services.
- Calculate your expenses: Factor in all costs associated with your side hustle, including materials, software, travel, etc. This will help you determine your base price.
- Factor in your experience: Don’t be afraid to charge more if you have extensive experience or specialized skills. Clients often pay a premium for expertise.
Pricing is a dynamic process and should be revisited regularly as your experience, clientele, and market trends evolve.
Building a Client Base
Building a solid client base is essential to the success of your side hustle. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Networking: Attend industry events, join online forums dedicated to mechanical engineering, and leverage professional networking sites like LinkedIn.
- Referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to refer you to their network. Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool.
- Online Presence: Establish a strong online presence through a professional website, social media accounts, or platforms like EngineerBabu, which connects engineers with potential clients.
According to a 2019 Freelancing in America study, 28% of freelancers said networking was their most effective way to get work.
Evaluating Success
Evaluating the success of your side hustle is not just about how much money you make. It’s also about personal satisfaction, skill development, and work-life balance. Here’s how to measure success:
- Financial Metrics: Track your income and expenses to determine profitability. Tools like QuickBooks can help manage your finances.
- Client Satisfaction: Use client feedback to gauge the quality of your services. Positive testimonials can also be used for marketing purposes.
- Personal Goals: Are you achieving what you set out to do? Whether it’s learning new skills, making extra money, or branching into a new field, evaluating your progress against your personal goals is important.
Transitioning to Full-Time
Moving from a side hustle to a full-time job can be exciting and daunting. It requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of your chosen field. For mechanical engineers, this transition can be even more complex due to the technical nature of the work.
Here are some steps to consider:
Identify Your Market
Before you make any moves, it’s crucial to understand who your target customers are. In the world of mechanical engineering, this could be anyone from car manufacturers to building contractors, depending on your area of specialization.
Research is key here. You can use online resources like Google Trends or LinkedIn to gather information about potential clients and market trends.
Build Your Portfolio
A strong portfolio is essential in showcasing your skills and attracting potential clients. This could include:
- Projects you’ve worked on during your side hustle.
- Any significant achievements in your full-time job that relate to your side hustle.
- Testimonials from satisfied clients.
Remember to highlight your unique selling points (USPs) and the value you bring to your clients. Websites like Behance and Coroflot can serve as platforms for showcasing your work.
Networking
Networking is a powerful tool for building connections and gaining exposure in your field. Attend industry events, join online forums, and engage with relevant communities on social media. LinkedIn is particularly useful for connecting with professionals in the mechanical engineering industry.
According to Upwork, 40% of freelancers find work through networking, underlining its importance.
Financial Planning
Before you transition, it’s crucial to have a financial plan in place. Consider your potential income and expenses, and create a budget. Tools like Mint or You Need a Budget can help with this.
Develop Your Business Skills
You’ll need to wear many hats as a full-time freelancer or business owner. Beyond your technical skills, you’ll also need to handle marketing, sales, accounting, and customer service. Websites like Coursera and Udemy offer courses to help you develop these skills.
Transitioning from a side hustle to full-time work as a mechanical engineer requires careful planning and strategic thinking. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to financial independence and a rewarding career in mechanical engineering.
Side Hustles for Mechanical Engineers FAQ
How can a mechanical engineer make money on the side?
Mechanical engineers can make money by leveraging their valuable engineering skills. One popular side hustle for engineers is doing repair work, ranging from minor engineering jobs to specific tasks requiring a deep understanding of mechanical systems. Another side hustle idea for engineers is to start a freelance engineering business, offering services like CAD work, consulting on engineering projects, or even working as a handyman. This not only allows mechanical engineers to make some extra cash but also enables them to set their own schedules and make use of their technical skills and knowledge.
How can a mechanical engineer make passive income?
Creating and selling online products is a great way for mechanical engineers to generate passive income. For instance, they could create an online course to share their engineering knowledge or start a blog or YouTube channel to discuss various topics in the engineering field. Offering 3D printing services is another side hustle idea that utilizes their technical skills and has income potential with little time or money investment required.
Do mechanical engineers make 200k?
While making $200k as a mechanical engineer largely depends on the individual’s experience, location, and the company they work for, it’s not impossible. Side hustles for engineers to earn extra can significantly boost their income. For example, a mechanical engineer could do freelance work or take on contractor jobs, which could increase their earnings depending on the amount of work they’re willing to do.
How do you make six figures as a mechanical engineer?
Making six figures as a mechanical engineer involves working in higher-paying industries and finding the right side hustle. Side hustles like consulting, freelance engineering, or even tutoring can be lucrative, especially if the engineer has a high level of expertise in a specific area. The key is to find a side hustle that pays well and allows the engineer to use their skills well.
Where can mechanical engineers make the most money?
Mechanical engineers can make the most money in industries that highly value their skills. However, many engineers boost their income by engaging in profitable side hustles. For example, creating and selling online courses, offering freelance engineering services, or even starting a YouTube channel to share their knowledge can be great ways for engineers to make extra money. These side hustles provide an additional income stream and offer flexibility as they can work on these jobs on the side.
Side Hustles for Mechanical Engineers Conclusion
The best side hustles for Mechanical Engineers offer various opportunities that leverage their technical knowledge and skills to earn extra cash. Whether you’re a software engineer looking for side hustle ideas or a professional engineer seeking the perfect side hustle, these opportunities surely offer a great way to make money and set your schedule. From starting a YouTube channel and sharing your engineering knowledge to working as a handyman on specific jobs, these jobs provide a flexible and rewarding way to earn money.
For Mechanical Engineers with a knack for design, offering freelance services as a design engineer is a prime side job. It allows you to use your skills to work and make decent money online. You can also leverage your writing skills, create an online course, or work on the side offering consultancy services. Even electrical engineers can find something that suits their skill set and interests. Remember, a side hustle is a good way to make extra money and expand your professional network, build your portfolio, and potentially turn into a full-time job. So, if you’re an engineer looking for side hustle ideas, consider these options, as they offer a perfect side income for an engineer.
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