Mechanical Engineering Technologists

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About the Job

Assist mechanical engineers in such activities as generation, transmission, or use of mechanical or fluid energy. Prepare layouts of machinery or equipment or plan the flow of work. May conduct statistical studies or analyze production costs.

It is also Called

  • Engineering Technical Analyst
  • Mechanical Designer
  • Mechanical Engineering Technologist
  • Mechanical Technologist
  • Tool Analyst

What They Do

  • Interpret engineering sketches, specifications, or drawings.
  • Assist engineers to design, develop, test, or manufacture industrial machinery, consumer products, or other equipment.
  • Design specialized or customized equipment, machines, or structures.
  • Prepare specifications, designs, or sketches for machines, components, or systems related to the generation, transmission, or use of mechanical or fluid energy.
  • Provide technical support to other employees regarding mechanical design, fabrication, testing, or documentation.
  • Inspect and test mechanical equipment.
  • Conduct failure analyses, document results, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Assemble or disassemble complex mechanical systems.
  • Test machines, components, materials, or products to determine characteristics such as performance, strength, or response to stress.
  • Prepare cost and materials estimates or project schedules.

Interests

People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: RIC.

This means people who work in this occupation generally have Realistic interests, but also prefer Investigative and Conventional environments.

Work Values

People who work in this occupation generally prize Achievement, but also value Recognition and Independence in their jobs.

Things They Need to Know

  • Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
  • Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
  • Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Things They Need to Be Able to Do

  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Education Required

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Wages

In 2012, the average annual wage in California was $66,180 with most people making between $37,000 and $96,210

Outlook

0.97%
avg. annual growth

During 2010, this occupation employed approximately 9,300 people in California. It is projected that there will be 10,200 employed in 2020.

This occupation will have about 90 openings due to growth and about 180 replacement openings for approximately 270 total annual openings.



California Career Resource Network