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Mechanical engineering technicians typically do the following:

• Evaluate design drawings for new or changed tools by measuring dimensions on the drawings and comparing them with the original specifications
• Prepare layouts and drawings of parts to be made and of the process for putting the parts together, often using three-dimensional design software
• Discuss changes with coworkers—for example, in the design of a part and in the way it will be made and assembled
• Review instructions and blueprints for projects in order to ensure that test specifications and procedures are followed and objectives are met
• Plan, produce, and assemble new or changed mechanical parts for products, such as industrial machinery or equipment
• Set up and conduct tests of complete units and their components, and record results
• Compare test results with design specifications and with test objectives and make recommendations for changes in products or in test methods
• Estimate labor costs, equipment life, and plant space

The median annual wage for mechanical engineering technicians was $56,980 in May 2019. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,140, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $88,640.

In May 2019, the median annual wages for mechanical engineering technicians in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

• Computer and electronic product manufacturing $60,390
• Scientific research and development services $60,010
• Transportation equipment manufacturing $58,310
• Architectural, engineering, and related services $57,300
• Machinery manufacturing $56,310

Most mechanical engineering technicians work full time.