Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Mechanical Engineering Technician
What mechanical engineering technicians actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a mechanical engineering technician?
Review test plans with the engineer. From there, the day usually includes build and modify prototypes, set up and run tests, and record and analyze test data. Most work full-time during regular hours.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a mechanical engineering technician working full time.
- Review test plans with the engineer.
- Assemble a prototype pump.
- Install sensors on the test rig.
- Run a durability test.
- Analyze data in a spreadsheet.
- Update a part drawing in SolidWorks.
- Write the test report.
Where mechanical engineering technicians work
Technicians work in labs, shops and manufacturing plants.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time during regular hours.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- 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
Tools you’ll use every day
- SolidWorks or Inventor
- Data acquisition systems
- Calipers and micrometers
- Hand and power tools
- 3D printers
- Test rigs
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Hands-on engineering
- Good pay for an associate degree
- Many industries
- Path to engineering
What’s hard
- Slow growth
- Noisy test labs
- Repetitive tests
- Pay lower than engineers
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like building things
- I enjoy testing and data
- I like CAD
- I want a two-year degree
- I like machines
- I might become an engineer
Not sure? Take the free Mechanical Engineering Technician fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear eye and hearing protection
- Guard test rigs
- Follow lockout/tagout
- Use tools safely