Mechanical Engineers

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.83
Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, or maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems or processes to meet requirements.80
Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering design, performance specifications, or environmental regulations.79
Confer with engineers or other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information.74
Design integrated mechanical or alternative systems, such as mechanical cooling systems with natural ventilation systems, to improve energy efficiency.74
Calculate energy losses for buildings, using equipment such as computers, combustion analyzers, or pressure gauges.71
Investigate equipment failures or difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and recommend remedial actions.69
Recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.69
Recommend the use of utility or energy services that minimize carbon footprints.67
Research and analyze customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, or other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, or maintenance requirements of designs or applications.65
Perform personnel functions, such as supervision of production workers, technicians, technologists, or other engineers.64
Apply engineering principles or practices to emerging fields, such as robotics, waste management, or biomedical engineering.64

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Direct the installation, operation, maintenance, or repair of renewable energy equipment, such as heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) or water systems.63
Provide technical customer service.62
Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, or repair to ensure that machines or equipment are installed and functioning according to specifications.62
Assist drafters in developing the structural design of products, using drafting tools or computer-assisted drafting equipment or software.62
Select or install combined heat units, power units, cogeneration equipment, or trigeneration equipment that reduces energy use or pollution.62
Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment, components, or systems.61
Evaluate mechanical designs or prototypes for energy performance or environmental impact.61
Develop or test models of alternate designs or processing methods to assess feasibility, sustainability, operating condition effects, potential new applications, or necessity of modification.59
Provide feedback to design engineers on customer problems or needs.59
Write performance requirements for product development or engineering projects.57
Study industrial processes to maximize the efficiency of equipment applications, including equipment placement.56
Estimate costs or submit bids for engineering, construction, or extraction projects.55
Design test control apparatus or equipment or develop procedures for testing products.55
Establish or coordinate the maintenance or safety procedures, service schedule, or supply of materials required to maintain machines or equipment in the prescribed condition.54
Develop, coordinate, or monitor all aspects of production, including selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, or operation of product designs.53
Solicit new business.47

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Active Listening72
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking72
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension72
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Complex Problem Solving69
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Judgment and Decision Making69
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Mathematics69
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Science69
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Active Learning63
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Operations Analysis63
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Speaking60
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Systems Analysis60
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation60
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

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Writing60
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Monitoring56
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Operations Monitoring53
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Quality Control Analysis53
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Technology Design53
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies47
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Personnel Resources47
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Troubleshooting47
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Operation and Control44
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Persuasion44
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Negotiation41
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Management of Financial Resources38
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources35
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Programming35
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Equipment Selection31
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Equipment Maintenance28
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Installation25
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Repairing22
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Design88
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Engineering and Technology87
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Production and Processing84
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical81
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
English Language77
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Mathematics72
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Public Safety and Security68
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Computers and Electronics66
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Education and Training60
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Physics60
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Administrative56
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Administration and Management55
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

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Customer and Personal Service52
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Building and Construction42
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Chemistry41
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Law and Government41
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Personnel and Human Resources41
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Sales and Marketing37
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Economics and Accounting35
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Communications and Media33
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Telecommunications33
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Transportation28
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Psychology27
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Biology21
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Sociology and Anthropology21
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Geography19
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Foreign Language16
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Medicine and Dentistry16
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Philosophy and Theology13
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Therapy and Counseling11
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Fine Arts8
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
History and Archeology8
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Deductive Reasoning75
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning75
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Problem Sensitivity75
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Written Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Information Ordering72
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Mathematical Reasoning72
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Near Vision72
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Number Facility66
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Written Expression66
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Category Flexibility63
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

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Fluency of Ideas63
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Visualization63
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Originality60
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Flexibility of Closure56
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Speech Clarity56
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition56
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Memorization50
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Selective Attention50
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Far Vision47
The ability to see details at a distance.
Speed of Closure47
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Visual Color Discrimination44
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Auditory Attention38
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Finger Dexterity31
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Hearing Sensitivity31
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Arm-Hand Steadiness25
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Control Precision22
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Depth Perception22
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Reaction Time22
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Trunk Strength19
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Wrist-Finger Speed19
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Manual Dexterity16
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Spatial Orientation13
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Extent Flexibility10
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Rate Control10
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Peripheral Vision3
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Dynamic Strength0
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Multilimb Coordination0
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Response Orientation0
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment96
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Working with Computers93
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems89
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Thinking Creatively87
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards86
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Getting Information85
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events81
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge81
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates79
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work77
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Documenting/Recording Information74
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings74
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others72
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Analyzing Data or Information69
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials65
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Processing Information62
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information59
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Developing Objectives and Strategies58
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization56
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others56
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships54
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People54
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others54
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Training and Teaching Others53
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Developing and Building Teams52
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Scheduling Work and Activities52
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Controlling Machines and Processes47
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Coaching and Developing Others45
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates44
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others42
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Assisting and Caring for Others41
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Performing Administrative Activities40
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment38
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Performing General Physical Activities34
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment32
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Selling or Influencing Others31
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Handling and Moving Objects28
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources26
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment23
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public21
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Staffing Organizational Units17
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail91
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability82
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Innovation80
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Cautiousness76
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Intellectual Curiosity73
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Achievement Orientation66
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Integrity63
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Perseverance56
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Confidence50
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Initiative48
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Adaptability43
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Stress Tolerance42
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

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Tolerance for Ambiguity41
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Leadership Orientation35
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Cooperation34
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Self-Control33
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Social Orientation20
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Sincerity19
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Humility17
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Optimism8
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Empathy7
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic90
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Investigative69
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Conventional64
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Artistic17
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Enterprising16
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social4
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day100%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others74%
- Contact with others most of the time25%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day69%
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day49%
- Once a week or more but not every day46%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day46%
- Once a week or more but not every day49%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important39%
- Very important56%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom49%
- Some freedom27%
- Limited freedom22%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom50%
- Some freedom27%
- Limited freedom22%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results42%
- Important results19%
- Moderate results30%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours45%
- 40 hours55%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually13%
- About half the time26%

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Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility50%
- Moderate responsibility18%
- Limited responsibility24%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive27%
- Highly competitive19%
- Moderately competitive48%
Time Pressure
- Once a week or more but not every day34%
- Once a month or more but not every week55%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day29%
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
- Once a year or more but not every month26%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important26%
- Very important13%
- Important34%
- Fairly important27%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day20%
- Once a week or more but not every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important22%
- Not important at all12%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility14%
- High responsibility15%
- No responsibility16%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important14%
- Very important30%
- Important21%
- Fairly important17%
- Not important at all19%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious20%
- Very serious17%
- Serious28%
- Fairly serious11%
- Not serious at all23%
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)86%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)12%
Public Speaking
- Every day13%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
- Never11%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
- Once a month or more but not every week32%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
Spend Time Standing
- About half the time32%
- Less than half the time65%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually17%
- Less than half the time57%
- Never22%
Written Letters and Memos
- Once a week or more but not every day12%
- Once a month or more but not every week26%
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
- Never28%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- About half the time22%
- Less than half the time76%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually12%
- Less than half the time65%
- Never20%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month61%
- Never24%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a year or more but not every month55%
- Never25%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never35%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated21%
- Slightly automated29%
- Not at all automated40%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week27%
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
- Never35%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Never34%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a year or more but not every month62%
- Never26%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never38%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time82%
- Never17%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a year or more but not every month62%
- Never28%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a year or more but not every month64%
- Never29%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month47%
- Never39%
Exposed to High Places
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Important22%
- Fairly important19%
- Not important at all56%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time63%
- Never34%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time63%
- Never37%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
- Never52%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month43%
- Never54%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time40%
- Never59%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never86%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
- Never72%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never85%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)93%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Never88%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never90%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never95%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Post-secondary certificate

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Analytical or scientific software
MAYA Nastran, Minitab, ReliaSoft Weibull++ 6, The MathWorks MATLAB
Instant messaging software
Blink
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D, Autodesk Revit, Bentley MicroStation, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Development environment software
Microsoft Visual Basic, Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA, National Instruments LabVIEW, Verilog
Object or component oriented development software
C++, Perl, Python, R
Configuration management software
Chef, Perforce Helix software, Puppet
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Illustrator, SmugMug Flickr, Trimble SketchUp Pro
Industrial control software
Computer numerical control CNC software, Human machine interface HMI software, Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, Geographic information system GIS software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne, SAP software
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
1CadCam Unigraphics, Rapid prototyping software
Data base user interface and query software
Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL Server
Project management software
Microsoft Project, Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Document management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Customer relationship management CRM software
Microsoft Dynamics
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Operating system software
Shell script
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Data base management system software
Teradata Database
Financial analysis software
Cost estimating software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
Bill of materials software
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Review technical documents to plan work.
Design industrial processing systems.
Design industrial equipment.
Evaluate characteristics of equipment or systems.
Implement design or process improvements.
Confer with other personnel to resolve design or operational problems.
Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans.
Estimate operational costs.
Recommend technical design or process changes to improve efficiency, quality, or performance.
Investigate system, equipment, or product failures.
Advise others regarding green practices or environmental concerns.
Analyze design or requirements information for mechanical equipment or systems.

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Identify new applications for existing technologies.
Supervise production or support personnel.
Direct installation activities.
Direct equipment maintenance or repair activities.
Advise customers on the use of products or services.
Create images or other visual displays.
Design structures or facilities.
Install production equipment or systems.
Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
Evaluate plans or specifications to determine technological or environmental implications.
Create models of engineering designs or methods.
Document technical design details.
Research industrial processes or operations.
Prepare proposal documents.
Design electronic or computer equipment or instrumentation.
Coordinate safety or regulatory compliance activities.
Determine operational methods.
Direct industrial production activities.
Perform marketing activities.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Tool Design
Tool Design
Tool Designer

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology