Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Description OES Code: 22511
Mechanical Engineering Technicians help mechanical engineers design, build, maintain and modify machines, parts, mechanical devices and tools. They work mainly with machine applications in the manufacturing process, including the use of robotics equipment. They may also help research and develop new automated manufacturing equipment and processes. Those working in design increasingly use computer-aided design (CAD), and technicians making parts use computer numerical control machinery (CNC).

Wages, California
Entry Level Hourly Wage $15.18
25th Percentile $17.23
50th Percentile $22.44
75th Percentile $29.51

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 11,100
Projected Employment 2008 13,200
Percent Change 1998-2008 18.9%
Separations 1998-2008 2,500

Employment Trends by California County.

Working Conditions
Mechanical Engineers are employed in virtually every industry, with most working for manufacturing firms and a substantial number employed by consulting services. Although some engineers spend most of their time in an office, many jobs require working part of the time in a plant, testing laboratory, machine shop, or installation site. Engineers also travel to professional conferences and training sessions to keep abreast of recent advances in the field. Engineering is normally not a physically strenuous job. However, the pressure of deadlines or the need for emergency repairs can cause considerable stress.

Advancement
Trained Engineering Technicians normally work under the direction of engineers or technologists, but often move up to more responsible positions or to supervision. They may begin by inspecting less complex types of construction, such as residential buildings, and then progress to more difficult assignments. For advancement to supervisory positions, an engineering or architectural degree is often required.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Opportunities in California industries include automotive, aerospace, apparel, electronics, food processing and pharmaceutical industries. Most States and cities require some type of certification for employment and, even if not required, certification can enhance an inspector's opportunities for employment and advancement to more responsible positions. To become certified, inspectors with substantial experience and education must pass stringent examinations on code requirements, construction techniques, and materials. The three major model code organizations offer voluntary certification as do other professional membership associations. In most cases, there are no education or experience prerequisites, and certification consists of passing an examination in a designated field. Many categories of certification are awarded for inspectors and plan examiners in a variety of disciplines, including the designation Certified Building Official.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Training may include an instructional program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers engaged in the design and development phases of a wide variety of projects involving mechanical systems. Includes instruction in principles of mechanics, applications to specific engineering systems, design testing procedures, prototype and operational testing and inspection procedures, manufacturing system testing procedures, test equipment operation and maintenance, and report preparation.

Skills & Other Requirements
Knowledge of: CAD, CNC, Personal computers, How to read schematics. Technicians must also be able to adapt to changing technologies and need higher reading and math skills than previously required. Additional related skills include the ability to concentrate, to use tools, abstract reasoning skills, creative thinking skills, mechanical ability, manual dexterity, mathematical skills, problem-solving skills, and spatial ability.

References
California Occupational Guide #2004-B

Related Occupations: Mechanical Engineers, #5

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)