Overview
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in mechanical engineering fields such as the design, development, maintenance and testing of machines, components, tools, heating and ventilating systems, geothermal power plants, power generation and power conversion plants, manufacturing plants and equipment. They are employed by consulting engineering, manufacturing and processing companies, institutions and government departments.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Mechanical engineering technologists
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
Prepare cost and material estimates, project schedules and reports
Conduct tests and analyses of machines, components and materials to determine their performance, strength, response to stress and other characteristics
Design moulds, tools, dies, jigs and fixtures for use in manufacturing processes
Inspect mechanical installations and construction
Prepare contract and tender documents
Supervise, monitor and inspect mechanical installations and construction projects
Prepare standards and schedules and supervise mechanical maintenance programs or operations of mechanical plants.
Mechanical engineering technicians
Assist in preparing conventional and computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering designs, drawings and specifications
Carry out a limited range of mechanical tests and analyses of machines, components and materials
Assist in the design of moulds, tools, dies, jigs and fixtures for use in manufacturing processes
Assist in inspection of mechanical installations and construction projects
Participate in the installation, repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$47,135
$65,238
$100,276
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
640expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of a two- or three-year college program in mechanical engineering technology is usually required for mechanical engineering technologists.
Completion of a one- or two-year college program in mechanical engineering technology is usually required for mechanical engineering technicians.
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.
Additional information
There is mobility to other related occupations such as technical sales or drafting technologists and technicians.
Progression to supervisory occupations such as mechanical construction supervisor, manufacturing supervisor or operations maintenance manager is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians in B.C.
- Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC Registration - Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC Registration - Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Please confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. To practice as a mechanical engineering technologist or technician in BC, you may choose to register with Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia. Eligibility is achieved through completion of an accredited diploma program and 24 months of progressive work experience, 12 of which must be at the technologist profile or higher in a Canadian work environment.
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Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.