Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
SOC Code: 17-3027Also known as:
Apparatus Engineering Technologist, Automation Design Checker, Brinell Tester, Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST), Computer-Aided Design Designer
Median Annual Salary
$68,730
+0.0% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
38K
Current Jobs
What Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians Do
Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
💰 Salary
$68,730
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+0.0%
Little or no change
🎓 Education
Associate's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
3K
Projected average per year
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
38,300
Projected Employment (2034)
38,300
Related Careers
Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians
$79,830 •
+8.1% growth
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
$77,180 •
+0.6% growth
Calibration technologists and technicians
$65,040 •
+4.7% growth
Top Skills Required
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Complex Problem Solving
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- 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.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Associate's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Bachelor's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians:
Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician
3,162 degrees awarded •
191 colleges offer this program
Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician
1,112 degrees awarded •
48 colleges offer this program
Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians, Other
478 degrees awarded •
19 colleges offer this program
Hydraulics and Fluid Power Technology/Technician
112 degrees awarded •
6 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become mechanical engineering technologists and technicians.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do mechanical engineering technologists and technicians make?
The median annual salary for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is $68,730.
What education do mechanical engineering technologists and technicians need?
Most mechanical engineering technologists and technicians positions require a associate's degree.
Common degree programs include Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician, Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician, Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians, Other.
Is becoming mechanical engineering technologists and technicians a good career choice?
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is projected to see +0.0% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 3,200 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
Top colleges for aspiring mechanical engineering technologists and technicians include
Northwestern University, Purdue University-Main Campus, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, University of Houston.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians may also be known as: Apparatus Engineering Technologist, Automation Design Checker, Brinell Tester, Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST), Computer-Aided Design Designer, Development Technician, Electrical Mechanical Maintenance Technician, Engineering Aide, Engineering Analyst, Engineering Data Analyst, Engineering Drawings Checker, Engineering Laboratory Technician (Engineering Lab Technician), Engineering Technical Analyst, Engineering Technician (Engineering Tech), Engineering Technologist, Experimental Technician, Gyroscope Technician, Gyroscopic Engineering Technician, Heat Transfer Technician, Hydraulic Technician.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.