Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
(NOC 2232)
in All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information TechnologyMechanical engineering technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in mechanical engineering fields such as the design, development, maintenance and testing of machines, components, tools, heating and ventilating systems, geothermal power plants, power generation and power conversion plants, manufacturing plants and equipment. They are employed by consulting engineering, manufacturing and processing companies, institutions and government departments.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is a moderate sized occupation in Nova Scotia so some job opportunities may occur through turnover. The number employed in this occupation is expected to grow moderately over the next few years, which will likely provide some additional opportunities for employment. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs are typically permanent positions.
The median employment income for 72% of Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $76,602. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$19.42
Minimum$32.00
Median$40.25
MaximumAnnual Pay
$12,832
Minimum$72,584
Median$105,438
MaximumCompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
Hourly Pay
$17.69
Minimum$31.35
Median$47.18
MaximumAnnual Pay
$13,568
Minimum$60,422
Median$107,009
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in mechanical engineering fields such as the design, development, maintenance and testing of machines, components, tools, heating and ventilating systems, geothermal power plants, power generation and power conversion plants, manufacturing plants and equipment. They are employed by consulting engineering, manufacturing and processing companies, institutions and government departments.
Job duties
Mechanical engineering technologists perform some or all of the following duties:
- Prepare and interpret conventional and computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering designs, drawings, and specifications for machines and components, power transmission systems, process piping, heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems.
- Prepare cost and material estimates, project schedules and reports.
- Conduct tests and analyses of machines, components and materials to determine their performance, strength, response to stress and other characteristics.
- Design moulds, tools, dies, jigs and fixtures for use in manufacturing processes.
- Inspect mechanical installations and construction.
- Prepare contract and tender documents.
- Supervise, monitor and inspect mechanical installations and construction projects.
- Prepare standards and schedules and supervise mechanical maintenance programs or operations of mechanical plants.
Mechanical engineering technicians perform some or all of the following duties:
- Assist in preparing conventional and computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering designs, drawings and specifications.
- Carry out a limited range of mechanical tests and analyses of machines, components and materials.
- Assist in the design of moulds, tools, dies, jigs and fixtures for use in manufacturing processes.
- Assist in inspection of mechanical installations and construction projects.
- Participate in the installation, repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment.
Sample job titles
- aerospace engineering technician
- automation technologist
- heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technologist
- home automation technician
- marine engineering technologist
- mechanical engineering technician
- mechanical engineering technologist
- mechanical technologist
- robotics technician
- tool and die designer
- building systems technician
Skills
For these jobs, you should enjoy technical work and mathematics, and have an interest in science. A high degree of manual dexterity and mechanical ability may be necessary. You must be precise, analytical, and able to work alone or as part of a team. Good oral and written communication skills are important. Familiarity with computers is also required. Physical stamina may be required for fieldwork.
Job requirements
- Completion of a two- or three-year college program in mechanical engineering technology is usually required for mechanical engineering technologists.
- Completion of a one- or two-year college program in mechanical engineering technology is usually required for mechanical engineering technicians.
- Certification in mechanical engineering technology or in a related field is available through provincial associations of engineering/applied science technologists and technicians and may be required for some positions.
- A period of supervised work experience, usually two years, is required before certification.
Other considerations
There is mobility to other related occupations such as technical sales or drafting technologists and technicians. Progression to supervisory occupations such as mechanical construction supervisor, manufacturing supervisor or operations maintenance manager is possible with experience.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Northern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Public Administration
Professional Business Services
Other Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
Computer, Electronic and Electrical Product Manufacturing
Metal Fabrication and Machinery (excl. electrical)
What is the age of Employment?
15-24
35-44
25-34
45-54
55-64
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
35-44
45-54
55-64
25-34
65+
Top levels of education
College certificate or diploma
$57,304 median annual incomeHigh school
$17,488 median annual incomeTrades certificate
$45,270 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$28,901 median annual incomeUniversity certificate or diploma
$35,348 median annual incomeCompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
College certificate or diploma
$52,476 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$58,011 median annual incomeHigh school
$35,125 median annual incomeMaster's degree
$37,706 median annual incomeTrades certificate
$54,923 median annual incomeEducation & training
Engineering technology - General
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that generally prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers engaged in a wide variety of projects. These programs include courses in various engineering support functions for research, production, and operations, and applications to specific engineering specialties.
Institutions providing this program
PO Box 5300 1250 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 6L2
(888) 959-9995
Mechanical engineering/mechanical technology/technician
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any 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. These programs include courses 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.
Institutions providing this program
PO Box 5300 1250 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1P 6L2
(888) 959-9995
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
(902) 491-1100
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Right to Title: This job is regulated in Nova Scotia. The job title is protected (you may not use this job title without a professional designation). Professional designation shows that the holder has met provincial requirements for the job. Employers may require professional designation, however, you do not need professional designation to legally work in this job.