Mechanical engineering technician
Install and fix industrial machinery so it works well and is safe for people to use.
Also known as: mechanical technician
About the job
What it's like
You would design, install and fix industrial machinery so it is safe for people to use. You’d make sure that the equipment runs smoothly and meets performance targets.
You could work in a range of different industries.
If you work in manufacturing you could:
Build engine and gear components
Maintain conveyor and packaging equipment
Service the robotic machinery used on production lines
In the power, water and processing industries you could install and maintain industrial plant equipment, such as drives, valves and pumps for utility companies.
In building services you could service lifts and escalators and install heating and air conditioning systems.
If you work in transport you could repair mechanical parts on railway engines and signalling equipment.
You would:
Draw up plans for new ideas, using computer aided design (CAD) software
Investigate and test ideas to improve existing systems
Make parts and install them
Test instruments and machinery
Find solutions to overcome problems with machinery or processes
Maintain equipment and machines to prevent problems
Find and repair faults in equipment and machinery
You do tasks like welding and using computer controlled machinery tools.
As an experienced technician, you could take responsibility for:
Production planning
Purchasing
Estimating
Quality control
You could supervise craftspeople and follow health and safety rules.
You’d work closely with mechanical engineers so you’d need to understand engineering drawings and principles.
Hours
Your working week would be around 37 to 40 hours, Monday to Friday. In factory production you are likely to work shifts and be on-call for out-of-hours problems.
Environment
Your workplace could range from a quiet office, if doing CAD work, to a noisy factory production line, if carrying out essential maintenance. You might also work outdoors, servicing equipment and machinery on site. You would wear protective safety clothing such as overalls and safety boots for most jobs.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- tube bending
- masts
- cisco identity services engine (ise)
- hydrostatic testing
- autoclaves
- well control
- dial indicators
- flange
- mechanical engineering
- oil rig
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- implementing ideas
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- working with technology
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Metalwork
Skills for Work: Automotive Skills
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
Applications of Mathematics
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
You would need a Modern Apprenticeship leading to a relevant Scottish Vocational Qualifications in Electrical Installation (SVQ level 3). Or a National Certificate (SCQF level 7), a National Qualification (SCQF level 7), a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) in Mechanical Engineering.
Employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4 to 6, in particular for entry to a Modern Apprenticeship.
You can enter some National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF 2-6) with no formal qualifications but most courses ask for National 4/5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Qualifications and experience that show understanding of the industry and practical skills such as Skills for Work Engineering Skills (SCQF level 4).
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