Calibration Technician

Your Fit

Income

$63K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

4.4%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Calibration Technician?

A Calibration Technician is responsible for ensuring that instruments and measuring devices used in a variety of industries are precise and accurate. They perform regular checks and adjustments on equipment to adhere to established standards.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Calibration Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Calibration Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$42K per year	$50K per year	$63K per year	$79K per year	$101K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $15K above the national average.

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What does a Calibration Technician do?

Work environment

Calibration Technicians typically work in manufacturing plants, laboratories, or specialized calibration facilities. They may also work within companies that require precise measurement, such as aerospace or pharmaceutical industries. The environment is often controlled, requiring attention to detail and adherence to safety standards.

Quick task list

Tests, calibrates, and repairs electrical, mechanical, and electronic measuring devices.
Maintains calibration standards and equipment.
Documents calibration procedures and results.
Identifies and corrects measurement errors.
Collaborates with quality assurance teams to ensure compliance with industry standards.

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Areas of specialization

Electrical Calibration: Focusing on calibrating electrical measurement and testing equipment.
Mechanical Calibration: Specializing in mechanical measuring instruments like torque wrenches and pressure gauges.
Temperature Calibration: Working with devices that measure temperature, such as thermocouples and thermometers.
Pressure and Flow Calibration: Calibrating instruments that measure pressure and flow rates.
Metrology: The science of measurement, involving the calibration of high-precision measurement tools.

Description

Calibration Technicians play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of measurement instruments, which are essential across various industries. Their work involves a combination of hands-on technical tasks and analytical skills to identify and correct errors in measurement tools. They must be proficient in using a variety of instruments and understand the principles of measurement and calibration.

The job requires constant attention to detail and a commitment to precision, as even small errors can have significant impacts in manufacturing, research, and other fields that rely on accurate measurements. Technicians must stay updated with the latest technologies and calibration methods, as well as understand and comply with industry-specific standards.

Working as a Calibration Technician can be highly satisfying, especially for those who enjoy technical challenges and problem-solving. The role is integral to the quality assurance process in manufacturing and research, contributing to the creation of reliable and high-quality products.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Ensuring the accuracy and quality of important measurement tools.
The challenge of solving complex calibration problems.
Playing a key role in maintaining standards and quality in various industries.

You might make a good Calibration Technician if you are...

Detail-oriented and have a keen eye for precision.
Interested in working with a variety of technical instruments.
Good at problem-solving and critical thinking.
Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
Interested in a career that combines practical skills with technical knowledge.

Pros:

Essential role in many industries, leading to diverse job opportunities.
Opportunities for specialization in various calibration fields.
Satisfaction in maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.

Cons:

The work can be repetitive and requires a high level of concentration.
Need to continually update skills with technological advancements.
May involve working under pressure to meet strict deadlines and standards.

How to become a Calibration Technician

Typical education

Most positions require at least an associate's degree in a technical field like instrumentation or electronics, which takes about 2 years. Some roles might require specific certifications or additional on-the-job training.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics and Physics for foundational knowledge.
Technical or vocational courses in electronics or mechanics.
Computer Science for skills in using calibration software and documentation.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in science or robotics clubs.
Engaging in DIY projects that involve building or repairing electronic or mechanical devices.
Volunteering or interning at technical repair shops or manufacturing facilities.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing an associate's degree in instrumentation technology, electronics, or a related field.
Gaining certification from organizations like the American Society for Quality (ASQ).
Seeking apprenticeships or entry-level positions in calibration or manufacturing to gain practical experience.
Continuing education through workshops and training programs to stay current in the field.

More resources

American Society for Quality (ASQ) - Offers resources and certification information for quality and calibration professionals.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - Provides standards and resources in the field of metrology.
International Society of Automation (ISA) - Offers education and training in automation and calibration.
Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory (PMEL) - A forum for sharing knowledge in the field of precision measurement and calibration.
Fluke Calibration - Provides resources and training materials on calibration techniques and equipment.

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