# Tasks & work activities — automation engineer

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 17-2199.05 (Mechatronics Engineers).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Publish engineering reports documenting design details or qualification test results.
- **[Core]** Provide consultation or training on topics such as mechatronics or automated control.
- **[Core]** Oversee the work of contractors in accordance with project requirements.
- **[Core]** Create mechanical design documents for parts, assemblies, or finished products.
- **[Core]** Maintain technical project files.
- **[Core]** Analyze existing development or manufacturing procedures and suggest improvements.
- **[Core]** Implement or test design solutions.
- **[Core]** Research, select, or apply sensors, communication technologies, or control devices for motion control, position sensing, pressure sensing, or electronic communication.
- **[Core]** Design engineering systems for the automation of industrial tasks.
- **[Core]** Upgrade the design of existing devices by adding mechatronic elements.
- **[Core]** Design advanced precision equipment for accurate or controlled applications.
- **[Core]** Apply mechatronic or automated solutions to the transfer of materials, components, or finished goods.
- **[Core]** Identify materials appropriate for mechatronic system designs.
- **[Core]** Create mechanical models to simulate mechatronic design concepts.
- **[Core]** Determine the feasibility, costs, or performance benefits of new mechatronic equipment.
- **[Supplemental]** Design, develop, or implement control circuits or algorithms for electromechanical or pneumatic devices or systems.
- **[Supplemental]** Design advanced electronic control systems for mechanical systems.
- **[Supplemental]** Create embedded software design programs.
- **[Supplemental]** Develop electronic, mechanical, or computerized processes to perform tasks in dangerous situations, such as underwater exploration or extraterrestrial mining.
- **[Supplemental]** Design mechatronics components for computer-controlled products, such as cameras, video recorders, automobiles, or airplanes.
- **[Supplemental]** Design or develop automated control systems for environmental applications, such as waste processing, air quality, or water quality systems.
- **[Supplemental]** Design self-monitoring mechanical systems, such as gear systems that monitor loading or condition of systems to detect and prevent failures.
- **[Supplemental]** Monitor or calibrate automated systems, industrial control systems, or system components to maximize efficiency of production.

## Detailed work activities

- Analyze design or requirements information for mechanical equipment or systems.
- Calibrate scientific or technical equipment.
- Create graphical representations of mechanical equipment.
- Create physical models or prototypes.
- Design control systems for mechanical or other equipment.
- Design electromechanical equipment or systems.
- Design environmental control systems.
- Design industrial processing systems.
- Develop software or computer applications.
- Develop technical methods or processes.
- Document design or operational test results.
- Estimate operational costs.
- Estimate technical or resource requirements for development or production projects.
- Implement design or process improvements.
- Maintain operational records or records systems.
- Monitor the productivity or efficiency of industrial operations.
- Provide technical guidance to other personnel.
- Recommend technical design or process changes to improve efficiency, quality, or performance.
- Research engineering applications of emerging technologies.
- Select project materials.
- Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
- Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
- Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
- Train personnel on proper operational procedures.