Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under the direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
Mechanical engineering technicians' job is to build, install and test equipment according to the specifications of mechanical engineers. They use three-dimensional computer-aided design software to plan efficient, cost-saving assembly line processes, and provide technical support in fields such as design, development, maintenance and testing of machines, components, tools, heating and ventilating systems, power generation and power conversion plants, manufacturing plants and equipment.
An engineering technician follows blueprints to make machine parts using power tools, pays attention to detail and applies mathematical abilities to understand the engineers' specifications and designs, and also tests products for safety and reliability.
How to become a mechanical engineering technician? A postsecondary vocational diploma is required for an engineering technician’s job. Skills required include creativity and AutoCAD skills to design an assembly process and troubleshooting skills to detect and resolve quality-control problems.
The job hazards are the risk of self-injury while moving machinery and industrial equipment, exposure to loud noise, and hazardous materials. An engineering technician is required to wear personal protective equipment, adhere to regulations, and follow safety protocols.
A technician engineer’s salary is commensurate to the nature of the job and earnings increase with experience and advancement.
To be successful, a mechanical engineering technician should be analytical, mechanically inclined, and able to work with their hands.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering
- M.Tech Mechanical Engineering
- B.Tech Mechanical Engineering
- B.E. Mechanical Engineering
- B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering
Tasks
- Prepare parts sketches and write work orders and purchase requests to be furnished by outside contractors.
- Draft detail drawing or sketch for drafting room completion or to request parts fabrication by machine, sheet or wood shops.
- Review project instructions and blueprints to ascertain test specifications, procedures, and objectives, and test nature of technical problems such as redesign.
- Review project instructions and specifications to identify, modify and plan requirements fabrication, assembly and testing.
- Set up and conduct tests of complete units and components under operational conditions to investigate proposals for improving equipment performance.
- Analyze test results in relation to design or rated specifications and test objectives, and modify or adjust equipment to meet specifications.
- Evaluate tool drawing designs by measuring drawing dimensions and comparing with original specifications for form and function using engineering skills.
- Calculate required capacities for equipment of proposed system to obtain specified performance and submit data to engineering personnel for approval.
- Record test procedures and results, numerical and graphical data, and recommendations for changes in product or test methods.
- Read dials and meters to determine amperage, voltage, electrical output and input at specific operating temperature to analyze parts performance.
Progression Routes
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