Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
SOC Code: 17-3027
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians carries a 41% AI exposure score (High automation risk), with a median annual wage of $68,730 and 0.0% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 38,300 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians (SOC 17-3027) carries an AI exposure score of 41%, placing it in the High automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score in the 40–70% range indicates meaningful automation pressure on specific task categories, but the role as a whole still requires human judgment for coordination, exception handling, or client interaction.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 38,300 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a 0.0% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $68,730, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Associate's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Document test results, using cameras, spreadsheets, documents, or other tools.
- 2. Set up mechanical, hydraulic, or electric test equipment in accordance with engineering specifications, standards, or test procedures.
- 3. Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, work specifications, drawings, or charts.
- 4. Inspect or test parts to determine nature or cause of defects or malfunctions.
- 5. Monitor computer-controlled test equipment, according to written or verbal instructions.
- 6. Analyze test data for automotive systems, subsystems, or component parts.
- 7. Assemble or disassemble complex mechanical systems.
- 8. Install equipment, such as instrumentation, test equipment, engines, or aftermarket products, to ensure proper interfaces.
- 9. Interpret engineering sketches, specifications, or drawings.
- 10. Perform or execute manual or automated tests of automotive system or component performance, efficiency, or durability.
Key Skills Required
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Complex Problem Solving
- Operations Monitoring
- Quality Control Analysis
- Mathematics
- Monitoring
Knowledge Areas
- Engineering and Technology
- Mechanical
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Physics
- Transportation
- Design
- Customer and Personal Service
- Education and Training
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians has an AI exposure score of 41%, indicating a high level of automation risk. Some tasks in this role can be augmented or partially automated by AI, but core responsibilities require human judgment.
What is the job outlook for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is projected to grow by 0.0% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 38,300 workers.
What skills are needed for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
Key skills for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians include Reading Comprehension, Speaking, Critical Thinking, and others. Typical entry-level education is Associate's degree.
How much do Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians earn?
The median annual wage for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is $68,730, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
The typical entry-level education for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is Associate's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
High automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. A moderate share of tasks may be augmented by AI tools.
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).