What Does a Mechanical Technician Do?

Mechanical technicians are highly skilled workers who install, repair and maintain a wide range of mechanical systems. They may work on heating and cooling systems, industrial equipment, or other types of machinery.

Mechanical technicians often specialize in a particular area of expertise. For example, they may focus on installing and maintaining HVAC systems or designing custom control panels for industrial equipment. Regardless of their specialty, they must have an understanding of all the different components that make up these systems. This includes knowledge of electrical wiring, plumbing, hydraulics, pneumatics, etc.

Mechanical Technician Job Duties

A mechanical technician typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Assembling or dismantling machinery, equipment, or other devices according to written or verbal instructions from supervisors or other experts in the field
• Troubleshooting malfunctions in equipment or processes to determine causes and solutions
• Performing basic engineering calculations such as pressure loss calculations for steam lines
• Maintaining and repairing operating equipment such as boilers, turbines, motors, pumps, hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, or other mechanical components
• Creating drawings of new equipment or parts based on engineering designs and specifications
• Installing and maintaining electrical components such as wiring and circuit boards in machinery and equipment
• Recording data such as measurements, temperatures, pressures, or other values during experiments or tests
• Diagnosing and troubleshooting problems with machinery or equipment to determine causes
• Performing routine maintenance on equipment such as lubricating bearings, changing oil filters, or replacing parts

Mechanical Technician Salary & Outlook

Mechanical technician salaries vary depending on their level of education and experience, the company size and geographic location. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of overtime.

• Median Annual Salary: $58,000 ($27.88/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $89,500 ($43.03/hour)

The employment of mechanical technicians is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

Mechanical technicians will be needed to install, maintain, and repair complex machinery in a wide variety of industries. In addition, demand for these workers will stem from the need to update existing equipment and machinery with newer technology.

Related: Mechanical Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Mechanical Technician Job Requirements

A mechanical technician typically needs to have the following qualifications:

Education: A bachelor’s degree is a minimum requirement for most mechanical technicians. Some employers prefer candidates who have a degree in mechanical engineering, industrial technology or a related field.

Mechanical technicians can also earn a two-year associate degree from a technical school. These programs typically include both classroom and hands-on learning.

Training & Experience: Most employers require candidates to complete a training program before they begin working on their own. These programs typically last between six months and two years and teach candidates the basics of the job. They may include instruction on safety, how to use various tools and how to troubleshoot common problems.

Certifications & Licenses: Mechanical technicians do not need certifications to work. However, there are certifications available for mechanical technicians who wish to increase their earning capacity or make themselves more appealing to employers.

Mechanical Technician Skills

Mechanical technicians need the following skills in order to be successful:

Technical skills: Technical skills are the knowledge and experience you have in a specific field. This can include knowledge of software, computer programs and applications, as well as the ability to read and interpret technical documents and manuals.

Communication skills: As a mechanical technician, you may be required to communicate with clients, supervisors and other technicians. Effective communication skills can help you to convey information clearly and to understand the needs of others.

Problem-solving skills: Mechanical technicians use their problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues with machinery. They use this skill to identify the source of a problem, research solutions and implement a solution to fix the problem. This can include identifying the source of a leak, finding the right replacement part and repairing the leak.

Attention to detail: Having good attention to detail can help you notice any potential issues with a machine or system. This can help you identify potential risks and make necessary adjustments to ensure the machine or system operates safely. Attention to detail can also help you complete tasks accurately and efficiently.

Ability to work independently: As a mechanical technician, you may be required to work on multiple projects at the same time. This means you may need to work independently to complete your tasks. Your ability to work independently can help you manage your time and responsibilities.

Mechanical Technician Work Environment

The work environment for a mechanical technician can vary depending on the employer. Many technicians work in factories, where they may be exposed to noise, dust, and fumes. Others work in office buildings, where they may have less exposure to these hazards. Some technicians work in repair shops, where they may be exposed to grease, dirt, and noise. Many technicians work full time, and some may work overtime. Some technicians may be on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Mechanical Technician Trends

Here are three trends influencing how mechanical technicians work. Mechanical technicians will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Need for More Technical Talent

The need for more technical talent is a trend that is being driven by the increasing complexity of modern machinery. As machines become more complex, they require more maintenance and repairs, which can only be done by technicians with the proper training.

This trend is creating a demand for mechanical technicians who have the skills to repair and maintain complex machinery. By becoming certified in specific areas, such as refrigeration or HVAC, technicians can set themselves apart from the competition and find success in this growing field.

More Automation in Manufacturing

As manufacturing becomes increasingly automated, the need for skilled technicians will continue to grow.

Mechanical technicians are essential in today’s manufacturing environment, as they are responsible for installing and maintaining the equipment that makes automation possible. In order to stay competitive, businesses will need to ensure that they have the best technicians on staff, which means offering them excellent pay and benefits.

A Greater Focus on Quality Control

Quality control has always been an important part of manufacturing, but it is becoming even more important as companies strive to produce products that meet the highest standards.

As quality control becomes more important, mechanical technicians will need to develop the skills necessary to ensure that products are meeting the company’s standards. This may include testing products before they are shipped out, or inspecting products after they have been assembled.

How to Become a Mechanical Technician

A career as a mechanical technician can be both rewarding and lucrative. It’s important to start off on the right foot by getting certified in your field. This will show employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job correctly.

You should also stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and techniques used in your industry. This will help you become more valuable to potential employers. Additionally, it’s important to build relationships with other professionals in your field. This will allow you to learn from their experiences and gain new insights into the industry.

Advancement Prospects

Mechanical technicians can advance their careers by taking on more responsibility at their current job, or by moving into a management position. In some cases, mechanical technicians may also start their own business. As they gain experience, mechanical technicians can also become certified in specific areas, such as HVAC or refrigeration. This can make them more attractive to potential employers and help them command higher salaries.

Mechanical Technician Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we are looking for a skilled and experienced mechanical technician to maintain and repair our production equipment. The ideal candidate will have experience with a variety of mechanical systems and be able to troubleshoot and repair issues quickly and efficiently. He or she will also be able to perform preventative maintenance on equipment and keep accurate records of all repairs and maintenance. The mechanical technician will work closely with the production team to ensure that all equipment is running smoothly and efficiently.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair a variety of mechanical equipment and systems
• Perform regular maintenance and safety checks on all machinery
• Keep accurate records of all repairs and maintenance performed
• Assist in the installation of new machinery
• Train other employees on the proper use and care of machinery
• Respond to emergency situations in a timely and efficient manner
• Work closely with other departments to ensure smooth operation of all machinery
• Understand and follow all company policies and procedures
• Adhere to all safety regulations
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Must be able to work independently with little supervision

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Certification from a vocational school or community college in mechanical technology or related field
• 2+ years experience as a mechanical technician
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and drawings
• Excellent problem-solving skills

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in mechanical technology or related field
• 4+ years experience as a mechanical technician
• Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Experience with welding, fabricating, and machining
• Strong mathematical skills