Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
🤍 Save CareerMechanical engineering technologists and technicians play a vital role in the US economy, with 38K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $68,730, with projected growth of 0% through 2034 (Little or no change).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — 0% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
Some tasks may be automated, but human skills remain essential.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
This occupation is a hybrid of digital knowledge work and physical labor. While AI can significantly automate digital tasks like 3D modeling, data analysis, and cost estimation, the role still requires a substantial physical presence for assembling parts, setting up vehicle crash tests, and operating machinery like lathes and grinders.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 0% projected growth and a median salary of $68,730, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in mechanical engineering technologists and technicians who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians is $68,730 per year. Entry-level positions start around $41,238, while experienced professionals can earn up to $109,968 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?▼
Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is associate's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?▼
Most Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians positions require associate's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians do on a daily basis?▼
As a mechanical engineering technologists and technician, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians a good career in 2026?▼
With 0% projected growth and a median salary of $68,730, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 0%, which is declining. The median salary of $68,730 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Mechanical engineering technologists and technicianss?▼
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians has an AI automation risk score of 50/100 (Moderate). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?▼
Anyone interested in mechanical engineering technologists and technicians who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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