Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians support a wide variety processes in machinery and power transfer systems.
People in this occupation:
Good math and computer skills, as well as good interpersonal and problem solving skills help individuals to be successful in this occupation.
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians also:
Source: Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Note:Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Source: 2021 Job Bank Wage Report
Source: B.C. Labour Market Outlook
10 year expected job openings: 750
Mechanical engineering technologist and technicians perform similar, yet distinctive duties which vary depending on the industry. The following duties are generally required.
Mechanical Engineering Technologists:
Mechanical Engineering Technicians:
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians typically work 40 hours per week, however, overtime may be a regular requirement.
On the job, they use computers daily for communications, as well as for design and other functions. Those specializing in design will work at CAD stations, but will also spend a small percentage of their time working on site.
Most technicians and technologists work in offices, factories and labs, and some work in other settings, such as warehouses, power stations, mills or construction sites or in a combination of these environments.
Mechanical engineering technicians and technologists work alongside engineers to provide technical support and services or they may work independently.
These technicians wear protective gear as appropriate, including hard helmets, boots, eyewear and earplugs for noise when working on sites. Those working long hours at a computer workstation employ ergonomic work practices.
Source: 2016 Census
While work as a Mechanical Engineering Technologist or Technician is not restricted by legislation in British Columbia, many agencies and employers recognize or require the professional certification provided by the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC).
Certification and registration as an Applied Science Technologist (AScT designation) or Certified Technician (CTech designation) in the Mechanical Discipline requires completion of a diploma of technology (or equivalent) for the AScT designation or completion of a technician certificate (or equivalent) for the CTech designation. Certification for AScT or CTech also requires a minimum of two years work experience.
College training programs eligible for AScT or CTech certification may be accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) for the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT). Full-time students may apply for student membership with ASTTBC.
Graduates are eligible for Graduate Technologist or Graduate Technician membership and may apply for full registration after completing the required minimum two years of relevant experience.
For more information, see the ASTTBC website at www.asttbc.org.
For more information about programs offered specifically for this career, visit EducationPlannerBC.
Every job calls for a certain set of skills. Knowing those skills is the first step in finding a good career fit.
Here, you will find the 35 most relevant workplace skills. Some are more important to achieving success in a certain career than others. These skills may come naturally to you or you may need to gain them through education, training and experience.
See the list of work-related skills below, ranked in order of importance for this career. You’ll also find the skill strength needed, letting you know how capable you must be in that skill.
Check out the list and see if this career matches your skills—take that first step!
Job openings will arise due to both new job creation and the need to replace experienced workers who retire.
It is expected that the demand from the energy and environmental fields will drive job growth in regions outside of the Lower Mainland in upcoming years.
Industry sources also expect there will be a significant shortage of skilled trades people to meet the demand in the HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) mechanical systems industry.
Mechanical engineering technicians and technologists who are able complete their tasks in a cost-effective manner will be more competitive due to pressure to increase productivity in the Manufacturing industry. Knowledge of database applications and other computer applications will be increasingly useful to these workers, as they perform work duties in environments that have become more computer-controlled.
Career paths
Technicians can advance to mechanical technologist positions with further education and experience. Technologists may progress from designer or engineering assistant positions to supervisory or technical management positions or they can enter a degree program to become a mechanical engineer or pursue studies in management in technology and engineering. They may become involved in research and development, technical sales or drafting technology.
Members of this occupational group may specialize in one of the following areas: aeronautical technology, CAD/CAM, energy systems, fire protection, naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical design, mechanical technology, power engineering, robotics or tool and die design.
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