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The Mechanical Engineering Technology curriculum equips the graduate for performing a key role in the mechanical design process; installing, calibrating, troubleshooting and repairing mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment; programming robots, CNC machine tools, computers and programmable controllers; and performing general maintenance functions. Since industry is mechanical in nature, there will always be a need for the Mechanical Engineering Technology specialist.

Duties

Technicians in this field may be required to:

  • assist in the design of tools, machine elements and industrial equipment

  • assist in the planning and operation of heat, steam, gas and water distribution systems

  • prepare and/or check design sketches and layouts

  • evaluate strength and cost of materials, physical and heating requirements and other necessary information

  • test components and systems and compile test reports

  • give technical information, aid and instruction to production workers

  • relay production, assembly and functional problems to engineers

Working Conditions

Technicians in this field commonly experience:

  • plants or office environment

  • different tasks

  • little supervision

  • some stresses due to deadlines

  • occasional overtime

  • working in teams

Physical Demands

  • generally: mildly active - some standing, walking

  • light lifting (up to 20lbs.) due to working environment

Characteristics & Temperament

Technicians in this field should have:

  • problem-solving skills

  • good communication skills

  • good social skills (essential for career advancement)

  • ability to work with numbers, symbols, concepts and tools

  • excellent spatial aptitude (comprehend two-dimensional objects; recognize relationships resulting from the movement of objects)

  • mechanical reasoning (understand mechanical principles and devices; understand how things work and how to fix them)

Employment Outlook

Employment statistics for 2003-2008 PTC graduates, who found jobs in this field, are as follows:

  • salary average: $32,637

  • salary range: $22,500-42,500 per year

  • 89% placement rate

  • entry level positions include: mechanical technician, maintenance technician, junior engineer

  • advancement comes with experience and further education; positions include field service representative, engineering sales representative, product engineer design engineer

  • employment in cities and towns of all sizes

Employers

Some recent graduates have found work at: