Mechanical Engineer
Design machines, engines, tools and products that move and work.
- $104,110
- 4 years
Science, Engineering & Lab career
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Also called: Mechanical Technician · Test Technician · Engineering Technologist · Prototype Technician
What mechanical engineering technicians do, what they earn, how long training takes and how to get started, with official BLS pay data and practical, job-level detail.
What does a mechanical engineering technician do?
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians help mechanical engineers design, develop, test and manufacture machines and mechanical devices. The median pay is $74,510 per year (BLS, May 2025), most people train for about 2 years, and employment is projected to grow +1.3% from 2025–35.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
- Median pay$74,510$35.82/hour · May 2025
- Job growth+1.3%2025–35, slower than average
- Openings per year3,100Average, 2025–35
- Typical entry educationAssociate's degreeBLS classification
- Time to train2 yearsTypical program length
- U.S. jobs36,900Employment, 2025
What mechanical engineering technicians do
Mechanical engineering technicians turn designs into working products. They build prototypes, set up and run tests, record and analyze data, draft parts in CAD, help with manufacturing setup, troubleshoot problems and suggest design improvements. They work in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy and R&D.
Most have an associate degree in mechanical engineering technology. Hands-on skills and CAD knowledge are key.
Typical duties
- Build and modify prototypes
- Set up and run tests
- Record and analyze test data
- Create CAD drawings
- Help set up manufacturing processes
- Troubleshoot mechanical problems
- Write test reports
Work environment and schedule
Technicians work in labs, shops and manufacturing plants.
Schedule: Most work full-time during regular hours.
A day in the life
- Review test plans with the engineer.
- Assemble a prototype pump.
- Install sensors on the test rig.
- Run a durability test.
See a full day in the life of a mechanical engineering technician →
Mechanical Engineering Technician salary
Half of mechanical engineering technicians earned more than $74,510 and half earned less in May 2025. Pay ranged from about $48,400 for the lowest 10% to $106,050 for the top 10%.
Full mechanical engineering technician pay scale and hourly rates →
How to become a mechanical engineering technician
- Take math and shop
- Earn an associate degree
- Learn CAD
- Get hired
- Advance
An associate degree in mechanical engineering technology is typical.
Step-by-step guide to becoming a mechanical engineering technician →
Skills and tools
Technical skills
- CAD
- Prototyping
- Testing and instrumentation
- GD&T
- Machining basics
People skills
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork
- Communication
All mechanical engineering technician skills and tools →
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hands-on engineering
- Good pay for an associate degree
- Many industries
- Path to engineering
Cons
- Slow growth
- Noisy test labs
- Repetitive tests
- Pay lower than engineers
Certifications and licenses
- Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA): CAD credential.
- NICET certification: Engineering technician credential.
- GD&T certification: ASME credential.
- Six Sigma Yellow Belt: Process improvement.
Career path
- Engineering Technician: Build and test.
- Senior Technician: Lead tests.
- Lab Lead: Run labs.
- Mechanical Engineer: With a degree.
Learn the job before day one
Our Mechanical Engineering Technician training (10 hours, $89.99) covers the role, 15+ key terms, step-by-step procedures such as set up a test and measure a part, safety and how to land your first job.
Related careers
Mechatronics Technician
Install and fix automated systems that combine mechanics, electronics and controls.
- $73,900
- 2 years
CNC Programmer
Write the programs that tell CNC machines how to cut precision parts.
- $68,120
- 1–2 years plus shop experience
CAD Drafter
Turn engineers’ and architects’ designs into detailed technical drawings.
- $66,150
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Compare: Mechanical Engineering Tech vs. Mechanical Engineer · Mechanical Engineering Tech vs. Mechatronics Technician · Mechanical Engineering Tech vs. CNC Programmer · Mechanical Engineering Tech vs. CAD Drafter
Mechanical Engineering Technician FAQ
Do mechanical engineering techs need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
Is the field growing?
Slowly, but steady openings exist.
Can techs become engineers?
Yes, with a bachelor’s degree.
How much does a mechanical engineering technician make?
The median annual wage for mechanical engineering technicians was $74,510 ($35.82 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $48,400 and the highest 10% earned more than $106,050.
How long does it take to become a mechanical engineering technician?
Most people need about 2 years of training. An associate degree in mechanical engineering technology is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a mechanical engineering technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
More mechanical engineering technician questions →
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-3027 (Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.