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Needed Skills

Industrial mechanics keep machines in good working order and must be able to detect and correct problems before they become larger problems.  They use technical manuals, their understanding of industrial equipment, and careful observation to discover the cause of a problem.  Mechanics also use computerized diagnostic systems and vibration analysis techniques to help figure out the source of problems and they may need to take the equipment apart to repair or replace the necessary parts. 

Mechanics are expected to have electrical, electronics, and computer programming skills to repair sophisticated equipment.

To be successful as an Industrial Mechanic you must have these important qualities:

  • Manual dexterity- When handling very small parts, workers must have a steady hand and good hand-eye coordination.
  • Mechanical skill- Industrial mechanics must be able to reassemble large, complex machines after finishing a repair.
  • Technical skills- Industrial mechanics use sophisticated diagnostic equipment to figure out why machines are not working.
  • Troubleshooting skills- Industrial mechanics must observe and properly diagnose and fix problems that a machine may be having.
  • Design-Have knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principals involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Mathematics- Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications
  • Judgment and Decision Making-Considering the relative cost and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one
  • Operation and Control- Controlling operations of equipment or system
  • Critical Thinking- Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problem