Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Written By Keandra Wilson

 1. OVERVIEW

Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians assist mechanical engineers in designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing mechanical systems and devices. They evaluate designs, create layouts, conduct tests, and ensure that products meet specific engineering standards.

  • 2024 Median Pay: $68,730 per year

  • Job Growth (2023-2033): 2% (Slower than average)

  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate’s degree

  • Work Experience in a Related Occupation: None

  • On-the-job Training: None

  • Number of Jobs, 2023: 39,900

  • Job Outlook, 2023–33: 2% (slower than average)

2. Role Breakdown by Level

Entry-Level Role: Mechanical Engineering Technician

  • Job Titles: Mechanical Engineering Technician, Junior Technician, Engineering Assistant

  • Education: Associate's degree in mechanical engineering technology or a related field. Some positions may require certifications.

  • Experience: Typically, no prior experience required. Some experience in a technical environment is helpful.

  • Core Duties:

    • Assist in designing mechanical systems and components.

    • Prepare layouts and assembly processes using design software.

    • Conduct testing and document results for review by engineers.

    • Help troubleshoot and solve mechanical design problems.

  • Salary Range: $46,940 – $68,730 per year

  • Key Skills:

    • Technical drawing and design

    • Problem-solving and analytical skills

    • Basic knowledge of mechanical systems and software tools (e.g., CAD)

    • Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions

Mid-Level Role: Mechanical Engineering Technologist

  • Job Titles: Mechanical Engineering Technologist, Senior Technician, Process Improvement Specialist

  • Education: Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering technology (bachelor’s degree in a related field may be preferred).

  • Experience: Several years of experience in the field, with a focus on handling more complex systems and technologies.

  • Core Duties:

    • Work with engineers to develop and improve mechanical systems.

    • Supervise junior technicians and manage project timelines.

    • Analyze test results and recommend improvements to designs and processes.

    • Create detailed reports and manage documentation for ongoing projects.

  • Salary Range: $65,720 – $75,680 per year

  • Key Skills:

    • Leadership and project management

    • Advanced technical knowledge of mechanical systems

    • Ability to work with cross-functional teams

    • Proficiency in mechanical engineering software (e.g., CAD, CAM)

Senior-Level Role: Senior Mechanical Engineering Technologist / Manager

  • Job Titles: Senior Mechanical Engineering Technologist, Engineering Manager, Project Lead

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology or a related field (a Master’s degree may be advantageous).

  • Experience: 5+ years of experience in the field, with leadership responsibilities in managing projects or teams.

  • Core Duties:

    • Lead teams of engineers and technicians in the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems.

    • Oversee the integration of new technologies and processes into mechanical systems.

    • Manage multiple projects, ensuring they meet deadlines, budgets, and safety standards.

    • Develop strategic solutions for complex technical problems.

  • Salary Range: $75,680 – $100,890 per year

  • Key Skills:

    • Advanced leadership and team management

    • Expertise in mechanical engineering and system design

    • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

    • High-level communication skills, both written and verbal

3. How to Become a Mechanical Engineering Technologist or Technician

  • Education Requirements:

    • Entry-Level: Typically requires an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering technology or a related field.

    • Mid-Level: A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology may be beneficial, along with relevant work experience.

    • Senior-Level: A bachelor’s degree or higher in mechanical engineering or a related field, plus experience in managing projects and teams.

  • Work Experience: Experience in technical roles such as assistant or junior technician is often required. Advancement may come with specialized skills in areas like CAD software or project management.

  • Licenses and Certifications:

    • Certifications from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) are optional but can increase job prospects.

    • Certain industries may require certification specific to mechanical systems or technologies (e.g., fire sprinkler layout certification).

  • Training:

    • Entry-level positions generally require short-term on-the-job training. As you gain experience, you’ll likely receive further training in specific tools, techniques, or technologies.

    • For advancement to senior roles, additional certifications, or on-the-job training in leadership and management may be necessary.

4. Skills & Tools

  • Core Skills:

    • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

    • Technical drawing, CAD, and design software proficiency

    • Attention to detail and accuracy

    • Excellent communication and collaboration skills

    • Project management and leadership for senior roles

  • Tools & Equipment:

    • CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.)

    • Mechanical tools like drills, grinders, and lathes

    • Testing equipment for performance analysis (e.g., thermometers, strain gauges)

    • Measurement and inspection tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers)

5. Work Environment

  • Most mechanical engineering technologists and technicians work in factories, research labs, or in industries that focus on machinery, vehicles, or manufacturing.

  • Safety precautions are essential, especially in factory settings where hazardous materials or heavy machinery are involved.

  • The work schedule is typically full-time, but overtime or irregular hours may be required to meet project deadlines.

6. Pay

  • Median Annual Wage (2024): $68,730 per year

  • Top Industries:

    • Transportation Equipment Manufacturing: $75,680

    • Scientific Research & Development: $71,560

    • Machinery Manufacturing: $65,720

7. Job Outlook

  • Employment of mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is projected to grow 2% from 2023 to 2033, which is slower than average for all occupations.

  • However, an average of 3,500 openings are expected annually due to retirements and transfers to other roles.

8. Related Occupations

  • Calibration Technologists and Technicians: Inspect, adjust, and test measurement devices.

  • Drafters: Create technical drawings based on engineers’ designs.

  • Industrial Engineering Technicians: Help engineers with problems related to manufacturing processes.

  • Machinists and Tool and Die Makers: Set up and operate equipment to produce precision parts.

9. Resources for Learning & Advancement

  • Books:

    • Mechanical Engineering Design by J.E. Shigley

    • Engineering Design: A Materials and Processing Approach by George E. Dieter

  • Online Courses:

    • LinkedIn Learning: Courses on mechanical engineering design and CAD software.

    • Coursera: Mechanical engineering technology courses.

  • Certifications:

    • National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET): Offers certifications in various engineering technology fields.

    • ABET: Accreditation for mechanical engineering technology programs.

  • Communities:

    • Reddit: r/MechanicalEngineering for advice and networking.

    • LinkedIn Groups: Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians.

 

Keandra Wilson
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