Electromechanical Engineering Technology : Career Guide

Electromechanical Engineering Technology is an excellent field for people who are scientifically oriented, pay close attention to detail, are well organized, have good communication skills, and enjoy working in an industrial setting. A degree in Electromechanical Engineering Technology prepares students to work in a vital, demanding field that is continuously developing.

What is Electromechanical Engineering Technology?

Electro-mechanical engineering technicians work with equipment that uses electric power to operate mechanical controls. Technicians who work on this equipment combine knowledge of mechanical engineering technology with knowledge of electrical and electronic circuits to design, develop, test, and manufacture electronic and computer-controlled mechanical systems, such as robotic assembly machines. They also operate these machines in factories and other worksites. Their work often overlaps that of both electrical and electronic engineering technicians and mechanical engineering technicians.

Electrical and electronic engineering technicians help design, develop, test, and manufacture electrical and electronic equipment such as communication equipment, medical monitoring devices, navigational equipment, and computers. They may work in product evaluation and testing, using measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment.

Typical job titles include: industrial electronic systems technician, electrical technician, electronic technician, installation technician, automation specialist, field-service representative, technical representative and engineering technician.

A student with a two-year associate degree will enter the industry and work with engineers, technologists, and other engineering technicians. Technicians are often involved in the manufacture, testing, trouble-shooting, sale and field service of electrical, electronic and computer systems. They are expected to keep up with the latest technological advancements. Because many engineering technicians assist in design work, creativity is desirable. Good communication skills and the ability to work well with others also are important because engineering technicians are typically part of a team of engineers and other technicians. Engineering technicians usually begin by performing routine duties under the close supervision of an experienced technician, technologist, engineer, or scientist. As they gain experience, they are given more difficult assignments with only general supervision. Some engineering technicians eventually become supervisors.

What’s the outlook?

The current market for positions in industrial settings is competitive.  The best opportunities will be for candidates who have strong technical skills, and who have actively pursued opportunities to combine skills gained in the classroom with practical experience gained through internships and other field work.

How much will I make?

Median annual wages of electrical and electronic engineering technicians were $53,240 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $41,550 and $64,120. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,490, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $78,560.

What should you expect in working conditions for an Electromechanical Engineering Technician?

The Occupational Outlook Handbook says:

“Most engineering technicians work 40 hours a week in laboratories, in offices, in manufacturing or industrial plants, or on construction sites. Some may be exposed to hazards from equipment, chemicals, or toxic materials, but incidents are rare as long as proper procedures are followed. Deadlines or other responsibilities at work may require longer hours and overtime.”

How do you get there from here?

BGSU Firelands prepares students for careers in electromechanical engineering through our Associate of Applied Science Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology with a specialization in Electromechanical Technology. 

Want to learn more?

Watch this video provided by collegegrad.com.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqH_8Gh9Lrc

Interested in Electromechanical Engineering Technology as a career path? Have more questions?

For further information, contact:

Philip Weinsier, Ed.D.,
Assistant Professor and Program Director                                                                                                     
E-Mail:  philipw@bgsu.edu

NOTE: Information in this Career Guide is subject to change without notice.
07/11 jlclark