Occupation Profile	Find Related Content... Tools and Technology Fastest-Growing Most Openings Largest Employment Declining Employment Highest-Paying Compare Local Wages Compare Metro Wages Compare Employment Trends Industry/Occupation Trends Occupation Outlook Certification Finder Job Bank and Portal Links Employer Locator Employability Checkup

Occupation Description

Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, and test machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.

View career video with one of the following: Additional videos and more information available on CareerOneStop.

State and National Wages

Wage Table

Hourly Wage Chart

Yearly Wage Chart

Location	Pay Period	2008
		10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
United States	Hourly	$14.95	$18.40	$23.14	$29.05	$35.24
	Yearly	$31,100	$38,300	$48,100	$60,400	$73,300
South Carolina	Hourly	$15.80	$18.54	$23.11	$28.54	$33.07
	Yearly	$32,900	$38,600	$48,100	$59,400	$68,800

Wage Table

Hourly Wage Chart

Yearly Wage Chart

• High is the wage at which 90% of workers earn less and 10% earn more.
• Middle is the wage at which 50% of workers earn less and 50% earn more.
• Low is the wage at which 10% of workers earn less and 90% earn more.

Wage Table

Hourly Wage Chart

Yearly Wage Chart

• High is the wage at which 90% of workers earn less and 10% earn more.
• Middle is the wage at which 50% of workers earn less and 50% earn more.
• Low is the wage at which 10% of workers earn less and 90% earn more.

Occupation Wages FAQs

Median Wage by Occupation Across States
Compare Wages by Occupation and Local Area
Compare Wages by Metropolitan Areas

National Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics Survey
State Data Source: South Carolina Wage Information

State and National Trends

Note: The data for the State Employment Trends and the National Employment Trends are not directly comparable. The projections period for state data is 2006-2016, while the projections period for national data is 2008-2018.

Occupation Trends FAQs

Employment Trends by Occupation Across States
Compare Employment Trends by Occupation
Employment Trends by Industry and Occupation

National Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections
State Data Source: South Carolina Employment Security Commission

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Mechanical Engineering Technicians are grouped into the following occupations for which the most important knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) are listed.

• Automotive Engineering Technicians
• Mechanical Engineering Technicians

There is no information about knowledge, skills and abilities. This may occur because data has not been collected or because this is a composite occupation (e.g., "All Other").

Knowledge:

• Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• 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.
• 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.
• Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

Skills:

• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• 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.
• Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
• Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
• Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.

Abilities:

• Oral Comprehension - The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
• Deductive Reasoning - The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
• Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
• Near Vision - The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Oral Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
• Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Source: Occupational Information Network: Mechanical Engineering Technicians.

Tasks and Activities

Mechanical Engineering Technicians are grouped into the following occupations for which occupation specific tasks, the most important generalized work activities, and detailed work activities are listed.

• Automotive Engineering Technicians
• Mechanical Engineering Technicians

Occupation Specific Tasks:

• Analyze test data for automotive systems, subsystems, or component parts.
• Calibrate test equipment.
• Develop instrumentation and laboratory test equipment for special purposes.
• Document test results using cameras, spreadsheets, documents, or other tools.
• Fabricate prototype components or fixtures, or modify existing prototypes.
• Inspect and test parts to determine nature or cause of defects and malfunctions.
• Install equipment such as instrumentation, test equipment, engines, and aftermarket products to ensure proper interfaces.
• Maintain test equipment in operational condition by performing routine maintenance or making minor repairs or adjustments as needed.
• Monitor computer-controlled test equipment according to written or verbal instructions.
• Order new test equipment, supplies, or replacement parts.
• Perform or execute manual and automated tests of automotive system or component performance, efficiency, and durability.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, work specifications, drawings, or charts.
• Recommend product or component design improvements based on data and observations.
• Recommend tests or testing conditions in accordance with designs, customer requirements, or industry standards to ensure test validity.
• Set up mechanical, hydraulic, or electric test equipment in accordance with engineering specifications, standards, or test procedures.

Generalized Work Activities: No information about "Generalized Work Activities" for this occupation is available.

Detailed Work Activities: No information about "Detailed Work Activities" for this occupation is available.

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Engineering Technicians.

Occupation Specific Tasks:

• Analyze test results in relation to design or rated specifications and test objectives, and modify or adjust equipment to meet specifications.
• Calculate required capacities for equipment of proposed system to obtain specified performance and submit data to engineering personnel for approval.
• Confer with technicians and submit reports of test results to engineering department and recommend design or material changes.
• Devise, fabricate, and assemble new or modified mechanical components for products such as industrial machinery or equipment, and measuring instruments.
• Discuss changes in design, method of manufacture and assembly, and drafting techniques and procedures with staff and coordinate corrections.
• Draft detail drawing or sketch for drafting room completion or to request parts fabrication by machine, sheet or wood shops.
• Estimate cost factors including labor and material for purchased and fabricated parts and costs for assembly, testing, or installing.
• Evaluate tool drawing designs by measuring drawing dimensions and comparing with original specifications for form and function using engineering skills.
• Inspect lines and figures for clarity and return erroneous drawings to designer for correction.
• Operate drill press, grinders, engine lathe, or other machines to modify parts tested or to fabricate experimental parts for testing.
• Prepare parts sketches and write work orders and purchase requests to be furnished by outside contractors.
• Read dials and meters to determine amperage, voltage, electrical output and input at specific operating temperature to analyze parts performance.
• Record test procedures and results, numerical and graphical data, and recommendations for changes in product or test methods.
• 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.
• Set up prototype and test apparatus and operate test controlling equipment to observe and record prototype test results.
• Test equipment, using test devices attached to generator, voltage regulator, or other electrical parts, such as generators or spark plugs.

Generalized Work Activities:

• Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events - Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material - Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards - Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Detailed Work Activities:

• analyze engineering design problems
• analyze engineering test data
• analyze technical data, designs, or preliminary specifications
• calculate engineering specifications
• communicate technical information
• conduct performance testing
• confer with engineering, technical or manufacturing personnel
• develop plans for programs or projects
• diagnose mechanical problems in machinery or equipment
• draw prototypes, plans, or maps to scale
• estimate cost for engineering projects
• evaluate engineering data
• examine engineering documents for completeness or accuracy
• fill out purchase requisitions
• follow manufacturing methods or techniques
• follow statistical process control procedures
• inspect facilities or equipment for regulatory compliance
• modify electrical or electronic equipment or products
• operate metal or plastic fabricating equipment/machinery
• operate pneumatic test equipment
• operate precision test equipment
• prepare technical reports or related documentation
• read blueprints
• read schematics
• read technical drawings
• read vehicle manufacturer's specifications
• recommend solutions to engineering problems
• record test results, test procedures, or inspection data
• set up and operate variety of machine tools
• test equipment as part of engineering projects or processes
• understand engineering data or reports
• understand service or repair manuals
• understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
• use drafting or mechanical drawing techniques
• use electrical or electronic test devices or equipment
• use knowledge of metric system
• use precision measuring tools or equipment
• use robotics systems technology
• use scientific research methodology
• use technical information in manufacturing or industrial activities
• use technical regulations for engineering problems

Source: Occupational Information Network: Mechanical Engineering Technicians.

Tools and Technology

Mechanical Engineering Technicians  View Detailed Report

Tools:

• Amplifiers - High-voltage amplifiers, Linear amplifiers, Switched amplifiers
• Gas welding or brazing or cutting apparatus - Arc welding equipment, Brazing equipment, Gas welding equipment, Oxyacetylene welding equipment, Stick welding machines
• Gauges or inspection fixtures - Bore gauges, Dial indicators, Ring gauges, Screw pitch gauge sets, Sine bars
• Milling cutters - Combination milling machines, Computerized numerical control CNC vertical milling machines, Sheet metal slitters, Track burning machines
• Screwdrivers - Offset screwdrivers, Phillips head screwdrivers, Slotted screwdrivers, Straight screwdrivers

Technology:

• Analytical or scientific software - ANSYS Mechanical, MSC Software Adams, Spectral Dynamics STARAcoustics, Spectral Dynamics STARModal, The Mathworks MATLAB
• Computer aided design CAD software - Autodesk AutoCAD Mechanical, Autodesk Inventor, Bentley MicroStation, Computer aided design CAD software, IBM CATIA V5
• Computer aided manufacturing CAM software - CNC Mastercam, Computer aided manufacturing CAM software, Three-dimensional 3D solid modeling software
• Development environment software - Microsoft Visual Basic, National Instruments LabVIEW
• Industrial control software - Computerized numerical control CNC programming software, Robotic control software, Soft Servo Systems LadderWorks PLC

Source: Occupational Information Network: Mechanical Engineering Technicians.

Education and Training

Occupation: Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Most Common Educational/Training Level: Associate degree
Related Instructional Programs:

• Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians, Other
• Mechanical Engineering/Mechanical Technology/Technician

WIA Eligible Training Provider List: http://www.workforcesouthcarolina.com/provider/

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections (Education/Training Level, Educational Attainment); National Center for Education Statistics (Typical Instructional Programs)

Related Occupation Profiles
Occupations with similar skill requirements

• Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers
• Machinists
• Marine Engineers and Naval Architects
• Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
• Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
• Petroleum Engineers

Web Resources

Architects, Surveyors, and Cartographers
Drafters, Engineering, and Mapping Technicians
Engineers

• Architect, Princeton Review
• Architects, California Occupational Guide
• Architects, Except Landscape and Naval, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Architects, Except Landscape and Naval, CareerZone
• Architecture, WetFeet.com
• Cartographers (Map Makers), California Occupational Guide
• Cartography and GIS, American Congress on Surveying and Mapping
• Land Surveyor, Future Farmers of America
• Landscape Architect, Princeton Review
• Landscape Architect, American Society of Landscape Architects
• Landscape Architects, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Landscape Architects, California Occupational Guide
• Surveying and Mapping Technicians, Learn More Resource Center
• Surveying Occupations (Land), California Occupational Guide
• Surveyor, Princeton Review
• Surveyors, Cartographers, Photogrammetrists, and Surveying Technicians, Occupational Outlook Handbook

• Architectural Drafters, CareerZone
• Drafters, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Drafting Occupations, California Occupational Guide
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians, California Occupational Guide
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Job Futures
• Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment), Job Futures
• Engineering Technicians, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Industrial Electricians, Job Futures
• Instrumentation Technicians, California Occupational Guide
• Laser Technicians, California Occupational Guide
• Robotics Technician, California Occupational Guide
• Technician, Princeton Review
• Traffic Technicians, Learn More Resource Center

• Aerospace Engineer, Princeton Review
• Aerospace Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Agricultural Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Astronaut, Princeton Review
• Biomedical Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Ceramic Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Chemical Engineer, Princeton Review
• Chemical Engineers, American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• Chemical Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Chemical Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Civil Engineer, Princeton Review
• Civil Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Civil Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Computer Engineer and Systems Analyst, Princeton Review
• Computer Hardware Engineers, CareerZone
• Computer Hardware Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Electrical and Electronic Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Electrical Engineer, Princeton Review
• Engineering, WetFeet.com
• Engineering Occupations in Robotics and Automated Systems, California Occupational Guide
• Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Environmental Engineering, American Academy of Environmental Engineers
• Environmental Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Industrial Engineer, Princeton Review
• Industrial Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Industrial Engineers, Including Health and Safety, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Inventor, Princeton Review
• Materials Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Mechanical Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Mechanical Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Metallurgists, California Occupational Guide
• Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Nuclear Engineer, Princeton Review
• Nuclear Engineer, California Occupational Guide
• Nuclear Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Operating Engineers, California Occupational Guide
• Petroleum Engineer, Princeton Review
• Petroleum Engineers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Robotics Engineer, Princeton Review
• Ship Engineers, Learn More Resource Center
• Sound Engineering Technicians, Learn More Resource Center
• Structural Engineer, Princeton Review