Mechanical Technician Jobs

Are you a hands-on problem-solver with a passion for machinery and engineering? Mechanical Technician jobs offer an exciting opportunity to work with mechanical systems, engines, and moving parts across a wide range of industrial and manufacturing sectors. At Stafffinders, we work with some of Scotland’s leading employers to connect skilled mechanical technicians with rewarding positions across Glasgow, Edinburgh, and beyond.

Mechanical Technicians play a crucial role in keeping operations running efficiently by maintaining, testing, and repairing machinery and mechanical systems. Whether you’re working on factory equipment, engines, or precision components, your skills will ensure production remains safe, efficient, and high quality.

What Does a Mechanical Technician Do?

A Mechanical Technician works closely with engineers to build, operate, test, and maintain mechanical systems and equipment. The role involves both practical, hands-on work and technical problem-solving, ensuring machinery operates at peak performance. Typical responsibilities include:

• Operating and maintaining industrial machinery and mechanical systems.

• Testing equipment and components to ensure functionality and safety.

• Diagnosing and repairing faults or breakdowns efficiently.

• Assisting engineers in designing and building working models or prototypes.

• Carrying out preventative maintenance and routine servicing.

• Estimating costs, ordering parts, and managing maintenance schedules.

• Reading and interpreting complex technical drawings and manuals.

Mechanical Technicians work across various industries including manufacturing, construction, energy, utilities, transport, and engineering, supporting large-scale operations and helping to reduce downtime.

Skills and Qualities for Mechanical Technician Jobs

To succeed in a Mechanical Technician role, candidates need to be technically skilled, safety-conscious, and comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial environment.

Key skills and qualities include:

• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude.

• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics.

• Competence in using hand and power tools.

• Good computer literacy for diagnostic and reporting purposes.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• Attention to detail and commitment to safe working practices.

Mechanical Technicians often work alongside engineers, operators, and production staff, so teamwork and communication are key to success in this field.

How to Become a Mechanical Technician

Most Mechanical Technicians enter the industry through a Modern Apprenticeship or vocational course in Mechanical Engineering or Maintenance Engineering. Employers value hands-on experience, so gaining practical exposure through work placements or entry-level roles is highly beneficial.

Typical routes include:

• Completing a City & Guilds, SVQ/NVQ, or HNC qualification in Mechanical Engineering.

• Undertaking an apprenticeship with an industrial or engineering company.

• Gaining on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced engineers.

With experience, Mechanical Technicians can progress into more senior roles such as Maintenance Engineer, Mechanical Supervisor, or Engineering Team Leader. There are also opportunities to specialise in areas such as hydraulics, pneumatics, or automation systems.