How to Be Mechanical Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 8, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Mechanical Technician is an important part of the engineering team. With their knowledge and technical abilities, they are able to diagnose and repair mechanical systems. This has a direct effect on the efficiency of the engineering process, as it allows for timely and precise maintenance of machinery and equipment.

Furthermore, the Mechanical Technician's expertise helps reduce the risk of potential breakdowns, meaning less time and money is spent on costly repairs. In addition, their work helps ensure that safety standards are met, thereby protecting the lives and livelihoods of those who work with the machinery.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. A high school diploma or GED is typically the minimum educational requirement to become a Mechanical Technician.
Complete a Vocational Program. Most employers want to hire someone who has completed a mechanical technology program from a vocational school. These programs usually last between one and two years, and teach students the basics of mechanical engineering.
Obtain On-the-Job Training. Once hired, most Mechanical Technicians receive on-the-job training from experienced technicians. This training may include instruction in safety protocols and the use of special tools and equipment.
Obtain Certification. Certification is not always required to become a Mechanical Technician, but it can help you stand out in the job market. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers certification in several areas that could apply to this profession.
Consider an Associates Degree. If you plan to advance in the field of mechanical engineering, you may want to consider furthering your education by obtaining an associates degree in Mechanical Technology. This degree can help you qualify for higher-level positions, such as a supervisory role in a manufacturing facility.

Maintaining an updated and efficient mechanical technician requires a great deal of hard work and dedication. Keeping up with the latest advances in technology and industry standards is essential for a successful mechanical technician. Staying on top of new developments and trends in the industry can be achieved by attending seminars, reading industry-related publications, and regularly engaging with other professionals in the field.

staying organized and having a structured approach to tasks is also essential. This includes creating a system to track and document all tasks completed, ensuring that all equipment is regularly maintained and serviced, and staying up to date on safety protocols. Finally, having good communication skills is important to ensure that all tasks are completed correctly and efficiently.

All of these elements together can ensure that a mechanical technician is up to date and efficient.

You may want to check Small Engine Mechanic, Electrical Mechanic, and Machine Tool Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Conduct preventative maintenance, installation and repairs of mechanical systems and equipment
Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical systems and components
Perform scheduled maintenance and repairs on mechanical systems and components
Inspect, test and adjust mechanical systems and components
Read and interpret technical manuals and drawings
Monitor mechanical system performance and make necessary adjustments
Fabricate and assemble parts and components for mechanical systems
Operate hand tools and power tools
Follow safety guidelines when working on mechanical systems
Maintain records of maintenance and repair activities

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of mechanical systems and components
Proficiency in using tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, and other equipment to repair and maintain machines
Ability to read and understand technical diagrams, schematics and manuals
Ability to diagnose faults and determine the best course of action for rectifying them
Excellent problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently or as part of a team
Excellent communication skills for discussing problems with colleagues
Ability to follow safety protocols when working with electrical and mechanical systems
Ability to lift heavy equipment and parts
Knowledge of computer systems and software for troubleshooting issues

The most important skill for a Mechanical Technician is troubleshooting. This requires the ability to identify and analyze problems, determine the cause of the problem and come up with solutions. Troubleshooting requires strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, as well as a good understanding of the equipment and systems that are being worked on.

It also requires the ability to think outside of the box and be creative in finding solutions. The ability to think logically and investigate different angles in order to solve complex problems quickly and effectively is essential. communication skills are important, as communicating with customers and colleagues is a vital part of the job.

With these skills a Mechanical Technician can diagnose and repair complex machinery, ensuring that it is working at top efficiency.

Logging Equipment Mechanic, Building Maintenance Technician, and Farm Equipment Mechanic are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with mechanical systems?
Describe a project you completed involving mechanical systems.
What do you know about troubleshooting mechanical systems?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in mechanical systems?
Have you ever worked with customers to install or repair mechanical systems?
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple projects?
Describe a time when you had to solve a difficult problem with a mechanical system.
How do you ensure that mechanical systems are functioning properly?
What safety protocols do you follow when working with mechanical systems?
What challenges have you faced while working with mechanical systems?

Common Tools in Industry

Torque Wrench. A tool used to apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener. (eg: Used to tighten lug nuts on a car wheel. )
Socket Set. A collection of sockets used to turn a fastener with a ratchet. (eg: Used to remove and replace nuts and bolts on an engine. )
Screwdrivers. A tool used to turn screws with a variety of head shapes. (eg: Used to secure electronic components on a circuit board. )
Pipe Wrenches. A tool used to grip and turn pipes of various sizes. (eg: Used to loosen or tighten pipes in plumbing applications. )
Pliers. A tool used to grip and turn objects of various sizes. (eg: Used to grip and pull nails from a wall. )
Hammers. A tool used to drive nails or other objects into a surface. (eg: Used to install drywall or framing for a house. )
Allen Keys. A tool used to turn screws with a hexagonal socket head shape. (eg: Used to tighten or loosen screws on a piece of furniture. )
Hex Keys. A tool used to turn screws with a hexagonal socket head shape. (eg: Used to adjust the tension on a bicycle chain. )
Drill. A tool used to bore holes in a variety of materials. (eg: Used to drill holes in wood, metal, or concrete. )
Soldering Iron. A tool used to join two pieces of metal together with solder. (eg: Used to join electrical components together on a circuit board. )

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
International Fluid Power Society (IFPS)
Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA)
National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA)
American Welding Society (AWS)
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS)

We also have Refrigeration Mechanic, Electronics Technician, and Marine Mechanic jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

CNC Machining. A manufacturing process that uses computer numerical control (CNC) to operate machine tools such as lathes, mills, routers, and grinders to produce precision components.
CAD/CAM. Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) are software programs that enable engineers and designers to create detailed 3D models of components and assemblies and generate computer-controlled commands to manufacture them.
PLC Programming. Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are electronic devices used to control industrial processes. PLC programming is the process of writing computer code to program a PLC to execute specific tasks.
Hydraulics. Hydraulics is the study of liquids in motion and the forces they generate. It is used in the design and operation of mechanical and electrical systems such as pumps, valves, motors, and actuators.
Robotics. Robotics is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. Robots are automated machines that can take the place of humans in hazardous or repetitive tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Mechanical Technician?

A Mechanical Technician is a skilled worker who is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems, components, and equipment.

What skills are necessary to be a Mechanical Technician?

To be successful as a Mechanical Technician, one should possess excellent problem-solving skills, technical aptitude, manual dexterity, and knowledge of various mechanical systems and processes.

What are the educational requirements of a Mechanical Technician?

Generally, becoming a Mechanical Technician requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require additional certifications or specialized training.

What type of work environment is common for a Mechanical Technician?

Most Mechanical Technicians work in industrial settings such as factories and plants, as well as in residential or commercial settings.

What are the average salaries for Mechanical Technicians?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Mechanical Technicians was $52,820 in May 2019.

Web Resources

Industrial Mechanical Technician - Mid-State Technical College www.mstc.edu
Mechanical Technician | Piedmont Virginia Community College www.pvcc.edu
Mechanical Technician/Mechatronics Certificate - Lone Star College www.lonestar.edu