Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians

What the job really is

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

At a glance

• Sector: Architecture & Engineering
• O*NET-SOC code: 17-3027
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Assemble or disassemble complex mechanical systems.
• Interpret engineering sketches, specifications, or drawings.
• Calculate required capacities for equipment of proposed system to obtain specified performance and submit data to engineering personnel for approval.
• Review project instructions and blueprints to ascertain test specifications, procedures, and objectives, and test nature of technical problems such as redesign.
• Provide technical support to other employees regarding mechanical design, fabrication, testing, or documentation.
• Test machines, components, materials, or products to determine characteristics such as performance, strength, or response to stress.
• Draft detail drawing or sketch for drafting room completion or to request parts fabrication by machine, sheet or wood shops.
• Analyze test results in relation to design or rated specifications and test objectives, and modify or adjust equipment to meet specifications.
• Record test procedures and results, numerical and graphical data, and recommendations for changes in product or test methods.
• Prepare specifications, designs, or sketches for machines, components, or systems related to the generation, transmission, or use of mechanical or fluid energy.
• Read dials and meters to determine amperage, voltage, electrical output and input at specific operating temperature to analyze parts performance.
• Design molds, tools, dies, jigs, or fixtures for use in manufacturing processes.

Tools and technology

Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Revit, Bentley MicroStation, C++, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Project, Microsoft SharePoint

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Calibration Technologists and Technicians
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
• Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
• Robotics Technicians
• Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
• Mechanical Drafters
• Automotive Engineering Technicians
• Photonics Technicians

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.