Occupation information for

Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.

Currently Employed: 1,040

Projected Annual Job Openings: 90

Typical Hourly Wage: $25.80 - $39.05

Typical Annual Salary: $53,700 - $81,200

• Set up prototype and test apparatus and operate test controlling equipment to observe and record prototype test results.
• Calculate required capacities for equipment of proposed system to obtain specified performance and submit data to engineering personnel for approval.
• Review project instructions and blueprints to ascertain test specifications, procedures, and objectives, and test nature of technical problems such as redesign.
• Draft detail drawing or sketch for drafting room completion or to request parts fabrication by machine, sheet or wood shops.
• Analyze test results in relation to design or rated specifications and test objectives, and modify or adjust equipment to meet specifications.
• Record test procedures and results, numerical and graphical data, and recommendations for changes in product or test methods.
• Evaluate tool drawing designs by measuring drawing dimensions and comparing with original specifications for form and function using engineering skills.
• Read dials and meters to determine amperage, voltage, electrical output and input at specific operating temperature to analyze parts performance.
• Prepare parts sketches and write work orders and purchase requests to be furnished by outside contractors.
• Review project instructions and specifications to identify, modify and plan requirements fabrication, assembly and testing.

• Compression testers
• Gas welding or brazing or cutting apparatus
• Injection molding machines
• Power grinders
• Shielded metal arc welding or stick welding machine

• Analytical or scientific software
• Computer aided design CAD software
• Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
• Industrial control software
• Project management software