Mechanical Engineering Technician

Your Fit

Income

$64K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

0.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

Mechanical Engineering Technicians assist engineers in designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They play a crucial role in bringing engineering concepts to life and ensuring their practical functionality.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Mechanical Engineering Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Mechanical Engineering Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$44K per year	$52K per year	$64K per year	$80K per year	$97K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $16K above the national average.

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What does a Mechanical Engineering Technician do?

Work environment

Mechanical Engineering Technicians typically work in manufacturing plants, engineering services firms, research laboratories, or government agencies. Their environment can vary from office settings for design and planning to more hands-on workshop or factory settings for implementation and testing. Safety protocols are a key aspect, especially in industrial environments.

Quick task list

Assists in the design and development of mechanical equipment.
Prepares layouts and drawings of devices using CAD software.
Conducts experiments and tests to analyze the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment.
Assists in product testing, including setting up tests, gathering data, and analyzing results.
Maintains and repairs mechanical equipment.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Product Design and Development: Focusing on the creation and improvement of mechanical products.
Testing and Analysis: Specializing in setting up and conducting tests on mechanical systems.
Manufacturing Support: Assisting in the manufacturing process, including tool design and production optimization.
Maintenance and Repair: Specializing in the upkeep and repair of mechanical systems.
HVAC Systems: Working with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Description

Mechanical Engineering Technicians bridge the gap between theoretical design and practical application. They collaborate with mechanical engineers to develop a wide range of products and systems, from small components to large machinery. Their role requires a strong understanding of mechanical concepts, as well as hands-on skills in using various tools and equipment. Technicians must be adept at interpreting technical drawings and schematics, and they often use CAD software to create or modify designs.

Day-to-day tasks can vary greatly depending on the specific field and project. They may be involved in prototyping, testing, analyzing data, or assisting in manufacturing and assembly processes. The work often requires problem-solving skills, as technicians must identify issues in designs or processes and figure out practical solutions. Additionally, they play a key role in quality control, ensuring that products meet specified standards.

This career path offers variety and the opportunity to work on different projects. Technicians need to be adaptable and continuously learn new technologies and methods. They often work in teams, so good communication and collaboration skills are important.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The hands-on aspect of bringing mechanical designs to life.
Being part of a team that develops innovative solutions and products.
The variety of work and the opportunity to be involved in different stages of a project.

You might make a good Mechanical Engineering Technician if you are...

Interested in how mechanical systems work and enjoy solving practical problems.
Skilled in working with your hands and using tools.
Detail-oriented, with strong analytical and technical skills.
Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Comfortable with computer technology, particularly CAD software.

Pros:

Opportunities to work in diverse industries and on various projects.
High demand for skilled technicians in the manufacturing and engineering sectors.
The satisfaction of seeing tangible results from your work.

Cons:

The work can sometimes be physically demanding.
Need to keep up with rapid technological changes in the field.
Some roles may involve exposure to hazardous materials or noisy environments.

How to become a Mechanical Engineering Technician

Typical education

An associate degree in mechanical engineering technology or a related field is commonly required, which involves about 2 years of post-secondary education. Some roles may also require specific certifications or on-the-job training.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics and physics to understand mechanical principles.
Computer classes, particularly those focusing on CAD software.
Technical education courses in mechanics, electronics, or woodworking.
Shop classes to gain hands-on experience with tools and machinery.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in a robotics club or similar technology-focused groups.
Engaging in DIY projects or hobbies related to mechanics or electronics.
Volunteering or interning at local manufacturing companies or mechanical workshops.

Preparation after high school

Pursue an associate degree in mechanical engineering technology or a closely related field.
Obtain certifications in areas such as CAD, CNC programming, or specific mechanical systems.
Gain practical experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in engineering firms or manufacturing companies.

More resources

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - Provides resources, news, and networking opportunities in mechanical engineering.
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) - Offers certification programs for engineering technicians.
Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) - A leading resource for manufacturing knowledge, education, and networking.
Autodesk Community - Offers forums and tutorials for CAD software users.

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