Is it better to get a BSEE when I already have a BSME, or would a MSME finally get me into the engineer field?

Question

I earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering about 4 years ago. Although, I've been doing drafting the last 3.5 years because I couldn't get into a Mechanical Engineer or related engineering position. It's not for lack of trying as I've been on about 40 interviews, 4 of them drafting and all 4 drafting jobs gave me an offer. I only got 1 engineering offer for a "Structural Engineer" position. However, it was for $15k less than I was making at the time and he practically begged me to take it after only 25 minutes of interviewing me.

I’m thinking about earning a BSEE degree. I’m wondering whether a Masters in Mechanical Engineering with no experience would actually get me into an engineer job that requires a mechanical engineer degree (even if it’s just a Bachelors), even with the seemingly glut of Mechanical Engineers who actually have experience? Would combining a BSME with a BSEE make me more attractive than just having one or the other?

Answer 1

I have a BSME, a MSME and an MBA. I am a  real hiring manager at a fortune 50 company. Based on the information you provided, I don't believe an additional degree will help you to land the position that you desire. If you  have had 40 interviews, I believe something is holding you back from achieving your dreams. Do you communicate well? Do you use good body language? Are you able to carry on a good conversation? Do you research the companies you are interviewing for? Do you present a positive attitude and seek to better both the company you are interviewing with as well as yourself? Are you reasonable in your expectations?

I'd suggest seeking feedback from the companies you have been turned down by. Honestly evaluate your skills. Ask a career advisor at your university, friends, relatives, or others to help you discover what your gaps maybe. To achieve your goals you will need to continue to work hard. Remember that progress lies outside our comfort zone.

Answer 2

I think you should earn your MS in either EE or ME. It would allow you to refocus your interest and you would definitely be more marketable because employers know you have specific experience that they need. Definitely don't go backwards and earn a BSEE. Obtaining an MSEE would only require you to take the prereqs for grad courses like probability, linear signals and systems, maybe electromagnetics or a devices course, which all depends on your focus.

As for 40 interviews, that's really good and you shouldn't let that deter you. You should be realistic about compensation expectations, I suggest checking out salary.com for pay scales and compensation expectations. A big company will usually be flexible with compensation negotiations but be realistic. Sometimes taking a job that you desire means making some sacrifices.

Check out the employers too. Many big employers offer a tuition reimbursement program allowing you to do grad school part-time. A graduate degree isn't necessary to advance in a company but it does make it easier and make you more competitive.