Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the industrial world, the role of a mechanical maintenance engineer is becoming more crucial than ever.
As machinery and equipment become increasingly complex and integral to operations, the need for skilled professionals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the smooth operation of these systems escalates.
So, what does a mechanical maintenance engineer actually do?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the realm of mechanical maintenance engineering,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable mechanical maintenance engineer job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s delve right into it.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Duties and Responsibilities
Mechanical Maintenance Engineers play a crucial role in industries where mechanical systems and machinery are used.
They ensure all mechanical systems are operating efficiently and safely.
Their duties and responsibilities often include:
- Overseeing the maintenance of mechanical systems to ensure optimal performance
- Planning and implementing preventive and corrective maintenance
- Inspecting machinery and equipment to identify any defects or malfunctions
- Repairing or replacing broken or malfunctioning components of machinery and equipment
- Conducting performance tests of mechanical systems
- Reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
- Working closely with other engineering professionals in the planning and execution of complex maintenance tasks
- Recommending modifications to improve equipment performance
- Adhering to all safety and environmental regulations when conducting maintenance tasks
- Training junior engineers and maintenance staff on machine handling and safety procedures
- Ordering replacement parts and equipment necessary for maintenance
- Documenting all maintenance and repair work for future reference
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Maintenance Engineer to join our team.
The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the functionality and reliability of machinery and mechanical systems.
The Mechanical Maintenance Engineer’s responsibilities include performing regular inspections, testing machinery, identifying faults, and conducting repairs.
You will also be required to help design and implement preventative maintenance procedures.
Responsibilities
- Perform regular inspections of machinery and equipment.
- Identify faulty equipment through observation and testing metrics.
- Source replacement parts and perform repairs.
- Work with team members to devise new and improved manufacturing and maintenance processes.
- Monitor and control maintenance costs.
- Design and implement proactive maintenance plans to prevent equipment failures.
- Ensure compliance with safety and environmental guidelines.
- Train and develop other engineers and technical staff.
- Keep a record of all maintenance and service activities conducted and maintain a cycle of the same.
- Ensure that all machinery is in safe working condition.
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a mechanical maintenance engineer.
- Sound understanding of mechanical and electrical systems.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong team working skills, able to delegate and lead.
- Proficiency in MS Office and Maintenance Management Systems (MMS).
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
- BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant field.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Mechanical Maintenance Engineer
- Work Environment: Industrial setting with potential exposure to noise, dust, and fluctuating temperatures. Requires physical stamina for standing, bending, and lifting.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Maintenance Manager or Plant Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Do?
Mechanical Maintenance Engineers play an essential role in a variety of industries including manufacturing, construction, and transportation.
They can also work as members of an engineering consultancy or on a contractual basis.
They are primarily responsible for maintaining and repairing mechanical equipment, tools, and machinery.
This could include large-scale industrial machinery or smaller electrical devices.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineers conduct routine inspections and perform preventative maintenance to keep machines running smoothly.
They assess machinery for efficiency and safety, and replace worn-out parts, or repair machinery as needed.
They also help in troubleshooting equipment breakdowns, identifying the root cause of the mechanical failures and implementing solutions to prevent future malfunctions.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineers often work closely with other engineering and production staff to improve production processes, and are responsible for documenting maintenance operations, keeping detailed records of maintenance and repair work.
Furthermore, they stay updated with the latest technology and equipment to ensure the machinery they work on is in line with current trends and advancements.
They are also responsible for ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and they often play a role in training other staff on equipment operations and safety procedures.
Overall, the job of a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer is to ensure that all machinery in their care is functioning correctly, safely, and efficiently, which in turn supports the productivity of the entire operation.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Qualifications and Skills
A Mechanical Maintenance Engineer should possess a specific set of skills and qualifications to properly perform their duties, including:
- Technical knowledge and understanding of mechanical systems, equipment, and the processes they support
- Proficiency in using various tools and equipment for maintenance and repair work
- Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals, blueprints, and work orders to perform required maintenance and service
- Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and troubleshoot issues in a timely and efficient manner
- Good communication skills to provide clear instructions to team members, report on maintenance status, and explain complex mechanical concepts to non-technical staff
- Physical stamina and strength to handle heavy machinery and equipment
- Attention to detail to ensure all tasks are completed accurately and safely
- Understanding of safety protocols and standards in the industry, as well as the ability to adhere to these guidelines
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team to maintain, repair, and improve complex mechanical systems
- Knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and other relevant software
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Experience Requirements
Entry-level Mechanical Maintenance Engineer candidates may have 1 to 3 years of experience, typically gained through internships, cooperative education programs or entry-level engineering roles.
During this time, they would have gained hands-on experience in maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of mechanical systems.
Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience likely have a more in-depth understanding of mechanical systems and processes.
They may have worked on specific projects involving machine design, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
They may also have experience working with specific tools and software related to mechanical engineering.
Those with more than 5 years of experience would be considered highly experienced in the field.
They would have a deep understanding of mechanical principles and maintenance strategies, and would be adept at problem-solving complex mechanical issues.
These individuals may also have leadership experience, having led teams or projects, and may be suited for supervisory or managerial roles.
They could also have specialization in areas such as HVAC systems, robotics, or industrial machinery.
In addition to the above, all Mechanical Maintenance Engineers are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
Some roles may even require a master’s degree or professional engineering (PE) license.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Education and Training Requirements
Mechanical Maintenance Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
In addition to this, they must have a sound understanding of mechanical systems, thermodynamics, robotics and control systems.
Practical experience plays a significant role in this profession, hence internships or apprenticeships during their study period or post-graduation, are highly beneficial.
Certain positions, especially those in industries with highly specialized machinery, might require mechanical maintenance engineers with a master’s degree in a specific mechanical engineering discipline or certified vocational training.
Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) is beneficial but not mandatory.
This usually involves passing two competency exams and gaining work experience.
Continuing education is crucial in this field due to rapid technological advancements, hence many engineers decide to pursue additional certifications or specializations, and stay updated with recent developments.
Having a master’s degree and/or certification may also indicate a candidate’s leadership potential and commitment to ongoing learning.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer is approximately $70,000 (USD) per year.
The actual income can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, educational background, location, and the specific employer.
Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer need?
Mechanical Maintenance Engineers require a solid understanding of mechanical systems and excellent problem-solving skills.
They should be adept at troubleshooting and able to conduct detailed maintenance procedures.
These engineers must also possess good communication skills, as they are often required to work closely with teams, and document maintenance and repair work accurately.
Do Mechanical Maintenance Engineers need a degree?
Yes, a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer typically needs a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
A comprehensive understanding of mechanical systems is crucial, and this is usually obtained through formal education.
Some roles may also require additional certifications or licenses depending on the nature of the work and jurisdiction.
What should you look for in a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer’s resume?
The resume of a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer should highlight their degree, any relevant certifications, and their experience in maintaining and repairing mechanical systems.
Look for specific examples where they’ve troubleshooted complex mechanical issues, carried out preventive maintenance, and improved system efficiency.
It’s also important to see if they have experience working in the specific industry your company operates in.
What qualities make a good Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?
A good Mechanical Maintenance Engineer should have a keen eye for detail and a problem-solving mindset.
They should be able to work under pressure, as the role often requires dealing with unexpected breakdowns and maintaining crucial systems.
Additionally, they should have good organizational skills to keep records of maintenance and repair work, and excellent teamwork skills, as they often have to collaborate with other engineers and professionals.
How challenging is it to hire a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?
Hiring a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer can be moderately challenging.
The role requires a unique combination of education, practical skills, and experience.
It’s important to find someone who not only has the technical knowledge but also the hands-on experience with mechanical systems and the ability to work well in a team.
Therefore, the recruitment process may take some time to find the right fit.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it means to be a mechanical maintenance engineer.
Surprise, surprise!
It’s not just about fixing machines.
It’s about shaping the future of industry, one mechanical part at a time.
Armed with our tried-and-true mechanical maintenance engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make a move.
But let’s not stop here.
Go further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to crafting precise job listings or honing your resume to absolute perfection.
Remember:
Every gear and lever is part of a larger mechanism.
Let’s build that future. Together.
How to Become a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer (Complete Guide)
The Workplace Wretched: The Most Hated Jobs to Dread
Flex First: Jobs That Prioritize Your Time and Freedom
Cruise Control Careers: Easy Jobs That Still Deliver the Big Bucks!