Calibration Technologists and Technicians

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$62,790 Median Wage (2022)
1,300 Projected job openings (2022-2032)
5.5% Projected growth (2022-2032)

Execute or adapt procedures and techniques for calibrating measurement devices, by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics, sometimes under the direction of engineering staff. Determine measurement standard suitability for calibrating measurement devices. May perform preventive maintenance on equipment. May perform corrective actions to address identified calibration problems.

Experience Requirements Overview

  • Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
  • Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
  • Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
  • Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Evaluate characteristics of products.
  • Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
  • Update technical knowledge.
  • Calibrate scientific or technical equipment.
  • Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.

Tasks

  • Analyze test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements.
  • Attend conferences, workshops, or other training sessions to learn about new tools or methods.
  • Calibrate devices by comparing measurements of pressure, temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions to known standards.
  • Conduct calibration tests to determine performance or reliability of mechanical, structural, or electromechanical equipment.
  • Develop new calibration methods or techniques based on measurement science, analyses, or calibration requirements.
  • Disassemble and reassemble equipment for inspection.
  • Draw plans for developing jigs, fixtures, instruments, or other devices.
  • Maintain or repair measurement devices or equipment used for calibration testing.
  • Operate metalworking machines to fabricate housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures.
  • Order replacement parts for malfunctioning equipment.
  • Plan sequences of calibration tests according to equipment specifications and scientific principles.
  • Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders.
  • Verify part dimensions or clearances using precision measuring instruments to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Visually inspect equipment to detect surface defects.
  • Write and submit reports about the results of calibration tests.

Data Source: This page includes information from the O*NET 28.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. This page includes Employment Projections program, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.