Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.

SOC: 17-3027.00

Common Job Titles

Engineering Technician (Engineering Tech)Mechanical DesignerMechanical Technician (Mechanical Tech)Research and Development Technician (R and D Tech)

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate material properties and component performance through destructive and non-destructive testing methods to ensure compliance with engineering standards.
  • KnowledgeInterpret engineering specifications, blueprints, and technical documentation to guide equipment assembly, modification, and testing activities.
  • KnowledgeAssess machinery and equipment quality through systematic inspection procedures applying quality control analysis techniques to verify dimensional accuracy and functional performance.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze mechanical system performance data and test results using precision measurement instruments and data acquisition software to identify design deficiencies.
  • Hands-onOperate CNC lathes, milling machines, and precision machining equipment following engineering specifications under supervision to produce prototype components.
  • KnowledgeApply mechanical engineering principles and mathematical calculations to modify equipment designs and resolve technical problems in collaboration with engineering staff.
  • Hands-onExecute technical drawings and CAD models using AutoCAD and SolidWorks to document mechanical parts, assemblies, and equipment specifications.
  • Hands-onCalibrate precision measuring instruments and testing equipment including micrometers, dial indicators, and coordinate measuring machines to maintain measurement accuracy.
  • MindsetEngage with interdisciplinary engineering teams and external stakeholders to communicate technical findings and coordinate project activities effectively.
  • Hands-onPerform mechanical assembly, repair, and maintenance procedures using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment in laboratory and production environments.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

37,450

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$46,940
10% of workers earn the following or more$100,890
Workers on average earn$72,450

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Engineering and Technology4.2/5
  • Mechanical4.1/5
  • Design4.0/5
  • Mathematics3.7/5
  • English Language3.5/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Autodesk AutoCADAutodesk RevitBentley MicroStationC++Dassault Systemes SolidWorksMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft SharePointMicrosoft Visual BasicMicrosoft WordSAP softwareThe MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

ANSYS MechanicalANSYS simulation softwareAnsys FluentAutodesk AutoCAD MechanicalAutodesk InventorCNC MastercamComputer aided design CAD softwareComputer aided manufacturing CAM software

Tools & Equipment

Absorption dynamometersAccelerometersAdjustable wrenchesAir compressorsAnalytical balancesAnemometersAngle grindersArc welding equipment