Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians help mechanical engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture tools, engines, machines, and other devices. They may make sketches and rough layouts, record and analyze data, and report their findings.

Duties

Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians typically do the following:

• Evaluate specifications in design drawings prior to adding or replacing tools
• Prepare layouts and drawings of the assembly process and parts to be made, usually using three-dimensional design software
• Recommend cost-effective changes in equipment design to improve reliability and safety 
• Review instructions and blueprints in order to ensure that project plans follow test specifications and procedures and meet objectives
• Plan, produce, and assemble mechanical parts for products, such as industrial equipment
• Set up and conduct tests of complete units and their components, and record results
• Compare test results with design specifications and with test objectives and recommend changes, if needed, in products or test methods
• Make calculations for business estimates, such as of labor costs and equipment lifespan

Mechanical engineering technicians typically install, troubleshoot, and maintain designs created by engineers. They may work under the direction of engineers or engineering technologists.

Mechanical engineering technologists typically help engineers improve designs or incorporate new technology. They may be team leaders, instructing mechanical engineering technicians on installing equipment, systems, or structures.

Some mechanical engineering technologists and technicians test and inspect machines and equipment or work with engineers to eliminate production problems. For example, they may help test products by setting up instruments for vehicle crash tests.

Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians held about 38,300 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of mechanical engineering technologists and technicians were as follows:

Some mechanical engineering technologists and technicians, particularly those working in factories, are exposed to hazards from equipment, chemicals, or toxic materials. However, their risk of injury or illness is low if they follow procedures.

Work Schedules

Most mechanical engineering technologists and technicians work full time.

Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians typically need an associate’s degree or other postsecondary training to enter the occupation.

The median annual wage for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians was $68,730 in May 2024.

Employment of mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is projected to decline 0 percent from 2024 to 2034.

Despite declining employment, about 3,200 openings for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.