Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Engineering Technologist

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a highly motivated and detail-oriented Engineering Technologist to join our innovative team. In this pivotal, hands-on role, you will act as the crucial link between engineering theory and practical application. You will be responsible for supporting the complete lifecycle of our products, from initial design and development to testing, manufacturing, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is passionate about turning complex engineering concepts into tangible, high-quality results.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Engineering Technician or Senior Technician
Recent graduate with a Bachelor's or Associate's in Engineering Technology
Skilled Machinist or Fabricator with design experience

Advancement To:

Senior Engineering Technologist
Project Engineer or Manufacturing Engineer
Quality Engineer or Test Engineer

Lateral Moves:

Field Service Engineer
Technical Sales or Applications Engineer
Project Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Utilize 2D and 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA) to create, modify, and manage detailed component drawings, assembly models, and schematics.
Develop, assemble, and test functional prototypes to validate new designs, utilizing methods such as 3D printing, machining, and manual fabrication.
Conduct comprehensive performance, validation, and reliability testing on new and existing products, systems, and components, meticulously documenting procedures and results.
Provide direct, hands-on technical support to manufacturing and production teams to troubleshoot line-down issues, resolve quality discrepancies, and ensure smooth operations.
Create and maintain essential engineering documentation, including bills of materials (BOMs), work instructions, test plans, and technical reports.
Perform root cause analysis on product failures and process deviations, developing and implementing effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
Identify, propose, and implement process improvements focused on enhancing manufacturing efficiency, reducing operational costs, and improving product quality.
Collaborate closely with a cross-functional team of design engineers, project managers, and quality assurance personnel to drive projects from concept to full-scale production.
Set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain a wide range of electronic and mechanical test equipment, including oscilloscopes, multimeters, data loggers, and environmental chambers.
Manage the execution of small to medium-sized engineering projects, including defining scope, tracking timelines, and reporting on progress to stakeholders.
Support the qualification and validation of new manufacturing equipment and processes, including executing Installation Qualification (IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ), and Performance Qualification (PQ) protocols.
Analyze test data using statistical methods to identify trends, draw conclusions, and prepare clear, concise summary reports for the engineering team.
Ensure all designs, processes, and documentation comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and internal quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100).
Interface with suppliers and vendors to source, evaluate, and qualify new components, materials, and technologies.

Secondary Functions

Provide training and technical guidance to junior technicians and production operators on new equipment, assembly techniques, and quality standards.
Participate actively in formal design reviews (e.g., FMEA, DFM/DFA) to provide practical, hands-on feedback on manufacturability, assembly, and serviceability.
Assist in managing the engineering lab or workshop, including equipment maintenance schedules, calibration records, and inventory of critical tools and components.
Support the quality assurance team by conducting first article inspections and contributing to the investigation of non-conformances.
Evaluate and recommend new tools, software, and methodologies to enhance the team's technical capabilities and efficiency.
Develop and program simple automated test scripts or control systems using tools like LabVIEW, Python, or basic PLC ladder logic.
Support field service teams by helping to diagnose and resolve complex customer-facing technical issues.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

CAD Proficiency: Expertise in 3D modeling and 2D drafting using software like SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD, or similar platforms.
GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing): Strong ability to read, interpret, and apply GD&T on engineering drawings.
Hands-on Prototyping: Skilled in building and modifying prototypes using 3D printers, machine shop tools (lathes, mills), and hand tools.
Test Equipment Operation: Competency with a variety of measurement and diagnostic tools, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, calipers, CMMs, and data acquisition systems.
Technical Documentation: Ability to create clear and detailed technical documents, including test reports, work instructions, and BOMs.
Data Analysis: Experience with analyzing test data and using tools like Excel or Minitab for statistical analysis and visualization.
Root Cause Analysis: Familiarity with structured problem-solving methodologies like 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, or Fault Tree Analysis.
Understanding of Manufacturing Processes: Knowledge of processes such as CNC machining, injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, and PCB assembly.

Soft Skills

Analytical Problem-Solving: An exceptional ability to diagnose technical problems logically and systematically to find effective solutions.
Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to clearly convey technical information to diverse audiences.
Collaboration & Teamwork: A proven ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams and build strong working relationships.
Attention to Detail: A meticulous and thorough approach to all tasks, from design and documentation to testing and analysis.
Adaptability: The flexibility to manage multiple priorities and adjust to changing project requirements in a dynamic environment.
Time Management: Strong organizational skills to plan and execute tasks efficiently, meeting project deadlines consistently.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Associate of Science (A.S.) or technical diploma in an Engineering Technology discipline or a closely related field.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Engineering Technology (BSET).
Professional certification (e.g., Certified Engineering Technologist - C.E.T.).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Mechanical Engineering Technology
Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology
Manufacturing Engineering Technology
Electromechanical or Mechatronics Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-7 years of hands-on experience in a relevant engineering, manufacturing, or R&D environment.

Preferred:

Demonstrated experience in a regulated industry such as medical device, aerospace, or automotive is highly advantageous.
A proven track record of supporting multiple engineering projects from the conceptual stage through to production launch.