A mechanical engineering technologist installs, maintains, and troubleshoots the machinery and systems that power manufacturing and industry. It is hands-on, in demand, and requires a bachelor's degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You inspect equipment, structures, and materials to ensure they work properly. You document your findings and communicate them to supervisors and team members. You solve problems by gathering information, analyzing it, and making decisions about repairs or adjustments. Your work draws on knowledge of engineering, mechanical systems, design, and mathematics. You use critical thinking and active listening to understand what needs fixing, then apply your technical skills to get the job done right.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $74,510 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 0 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 3,200 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You will need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering technology or a related field. This typically takes four years of full-time study and covers engineering principles, mechanical design, mathematics, and hands-on lab work. The education level is considered medium preparation, meaning you will develop solid technical knowledge before entering the field. Look for programs that include internships or co-op experiences, which can help you build real-world skills and make connections with employers.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree program in mechanical engineering technology. The choice of school and program matters, so Pathly can map the mechanical engineering technologist and technician path that fits you with your counselor to find the right fit for your goals and timeline.
You do not need a license to work as a mechanical engineering technologist and technician, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You are drawn to realistic work: hands-on problem-solving with machines and systems. You like understanding how things work and making them function better.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).