Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians

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.

Regulations

Contacts

Electro-Mechanical Technician

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