What is a mechanical mechanic?

In brief

As mechanical mechanic you ensure that installations, machines and production lines keep running smoothly. Whether it's maintenance, repair or troubleshooting - you are the technical hub that every company relies on.

What does a Mechanical Mechanic do?

A mechanical mechanic deals with maintaining, repairing and installing mechanical parts, machines and systems. Think of production lines, drives, pumps and conveyors. You often work with colleagues from electrical engineering or maintenance, making sure everything keeps running safely and efficiently.

Main duties:

  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance
  • Analyze and fix malfunctions
  • Parts replacement and adjustment
  • Maintaining technical documentation
  • Collaborate with operators and engineers

What competencies should you have?

These are the qualities that make you excel in this role:

Technical understanding and problem solving skills
Attention to detail and safety
Be able to work independently and responsibly
Flexible in working hours and work locations
Team spirit and communication skills
Willingness to continue to develop yourself

What does a workday look like?

You start the day with a short consultation on the shop floor: what are the planned maintenance tasks, what breakdowns have occurred, and what has priority? Then you get to work on inspections, repairs or rebuilding machines. In between, you will be called out in case of a breakdown - so fast switching is important. You work with technical diagrams, measuring equipment and tools, and end the day with reporting in the maintenance system.

Training and advancement

To become a Mechanical Mechanic, you usually take a technical MBO course. This often involves:

  • MBO All-round Monteur Technische Dienst (level 3-4)
  • MBO Mechanical Engineering
  • MBO Mechatronics
  • BBL pathways where you combine working and learning

Additional courses, such as VCA, NEN 3140 or hydraulics/pneumatics, make you especially attractive to employers.

Salary

A Mechanical Mechanic earns on average between €2,400 and €3,800 gross per month, depending on experience, education and shift premiums. In industry or chemistry, this can go up to €4,200 gross including allowances.

Diploma

A mbo diploma in mechanical engineering or mechatronics is required. With additional certificates, you can advance to positions such as Maintenance Mechanic or Technical Specialist.

Number of hours

Most positions are full-time (36-40 hours per week). Shifts may vary depending on the company's production times.

Working Hours

Mechanical fitters often work shifts or day shifts, depending on the industry. On breakdown shifts, you may need to be available at night or on weekends.

Reviews we are proud of

Ready to build?

mechanical mechanic

Fancy making gears sing and lines tight? Put on your gloves - we're going to build.

Apply immediately - arranged within 1 minute

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a mechanical mechanic do?

A mechanical mechanic performs maintenance and repairs on machinery, equipment and mechanical systems to prevent breakdowns and keep processes running smoothly.

Yes, the demand is great. Mechanics are desperately needed in almost every sector - from industry to logistics.

Often it does, especially if you work on-site at customers' sites or work breakdown shifts.

Sure. You can advance to positions such as Maintenance Engineer, Technical Service Team Leader or Service Engineer.

Not always. Some companies work day shifts, others with 2- or 3-shift systems. It depends on the industry and the type of production.