Mechanical engineering technicians help mechanical engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They may make sketches and rough layouts, record and analyze data, make calculations and estimates, and report their findings.
Mechanical engineering technicians typically do the following:
- Evaluate design drawings for new or changed tools
- Prepare layouts and drawings of parts
- Discuss changes with coworkers
- Review instructions and blueprints for projects
- Plan, produce, and assemble new or changed mechanical parts
- Set up and conduct tests of complete units and parts
- Compare test results with design specifications
- Estimate labor costs, equipment life, and plant space
Some mechanical engineering technicians test and inspect machines and equipment, or work with engineers to eliminate production problems. They may assist in testing products by, for example, setting up instrumentation for vehicle crash tests.