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Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
What they do?
Mechanical engineering technicians perform some or all of the following duties:
A. Assist in preparing conventional and computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering designs, drawings and specifications
B. Carry out a limited range of mechanical tests and analyses of machines, components and materials
C. Assist in the design of moulds, tools, dies, jigs and fixtures for use in manufacturing processes
D. Assist in inspection of mechanical installations and construction projects
E. Participate in the installation, repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment.
F. Prepare and interpret conventional and computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering designs, drawings, and specifications for machines and components, power transmission systems, process piping, heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems
G. Prepare cost and material estimates, project schedules and reports
Where they find work?
1. Architectural engineering and related services - 37.0%
2. Machinery manufacturing - 13.0%
3. Construction - 8.0%
4. Wholesale trade - 6.0%
5. Aerospace product and parts manufacturing - 5.0%
6. Utilities - 4.0%
7. Motor vehicle parts manufacturing - 4.0%
What education do I need?
1. Completion of a two- or three-year college program in mechanical engineering technology is usually required for mechanical engineering technologists.
2. Completion of a one- or two-year college program in mechanical engineering technology is usually required for mechanical engineering technicians.
3. Certification in mechanical engineering technology or in a related field is available through provincial associations of engineering/applied science technologists and technicians and may be required for some positions.
4. A period of supervised work experience, usually two years, is required before certification.
5. In Quebec, membership in the regulatory body is required to use the title of Professional Technologist.
6. Most recent entrants have a community college diploma.
High School Subject that will help:
1. Math
2. Physics
3. Drafting
4. Chemistry
What can you expect to make:
The average hourly wages for Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians is $22.81/HR, which is below average for occupations in the natural and applied sciences and related occupations and above average for all technical, professional, and skilled occupations. These wages grew at an average rate from 2002 to 2004.
Average Wage
Expected Wage by Age
Unemployment:
3% of Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians are unemployed. This rate is close to the average for technical, professional, and skilled occupations.
Unemployment
Trends in Unemployment
Current Job Outlook:
The job outlook for Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians is considered Average because:
1. Employment grew at an above-average rate.
2. Hourly wages ($22.81) are close to the average ($18.07), and the rate of wage growth is close to the average.
3. The unemployment rate (3%) is close to the 2004 average (7%).
Future Job Prospects:
Your job outlook will continue to be Average because:
1. The employment growth rate will likely be above average because of the automated production of Canadian manufacturing industries and the growth in the metal products and machinery industries.
2. Although the retirement rate will likely be average, the number of retiring workers should contribute to job openings.
3. The number of job seekers will likely match the number of job openings.
Highest Concetration:
The highest concentrations Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians are found in Alberta and Ontario while the lowest concentrations are in Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland.
Unionization Rate:
The unionization rate (25%) is close to the average (32%) for all occupations.
Useful Experience:
1. Team project work
2. Proposal writing
3. Presenting
Part Time Workers
Part time workers:
4% of Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians are employed only on a part-time basis. There were 16,500 workers employed in these occupations in 2004, an increase of 275% since 1997.
Age Demographics
Age Demographics:
The relatively high percentage of younger workers suggests more entry-level positions and jobs that may serve as stepping stones in a career. The retirement rate to 2009 will likely be average reflecting the age/retirement structure of the occupation.
