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Advanced ManufacturingClimate CriticalOne of the 20 occupation classifications Colorado identified as essential to meeting the state's climate goals and needing focused workforce investment.

Mechanical Engineering Technician

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

Annual openings

52

Median wage

$77,090

Typical education

The position usually requires an Associate's Degree, though some employers substitute work experience for that degree.

Growth 2026–2032

+8%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

The position usually requires an Associate's Degree, though some employers substitute work experience for that degree.

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

This position usually requires 2+ years of experience or 3+ years of apprenticeship. Positions most likely will need to pass licensing exams in order to perform the job.

A mechanical technician works with engineers to develop and test manufacturing equipment.
Are you a whiz with cars? Still enjoy playing with Legos? As a mechanical technician, you’ll put those interests to use in the real world, working with manufacturing equipment on the production floor. You’ll use your own set of tools to repair and maintain all the machines used throughout the manufacturing process.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Calculate required capacities for equipment of proposed system to obtain specified performance and submit data to engineering personnel for approval.
  2. Review project instructions and blueprints to ascertain test specifications, procedures, and objectives, and test nature of technical problems such as redesign.
  3. Draft detail drawing or sketch for drafting room completion or to request parts fabrication by machine, sheet or wood shops.
  4. Analyze test results in relation to design or rated specifications and test objectives, and modify or adjust equipment to meet specifications.
  5. Read dials and meters to determine amperage, voltage, electrical output and input at specific operating temperature to analyze parts performance.
  6. Record test procedures and results, numerical and graphical data, and recommendations for changes in product or test methods.
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