Do you enjoy working with your hands? Are you mechanically-minded with an interest in working on various devices and machines?
If so, becoming an instrumentation and controls technician may be the career path for you.
Read on as we discuss what these professionals do and the steps you can take to enter this fascinating line of work.
What Is an Instrumentation and Controls Technician?
An instrumentation and controls technician may be known by several names, including electro-mechanical technician, mechatronic technician, and instrumentation technician.
Instrumentation and controls technicians install, calibrate, repair, and perform routine maintenance on a variety of mechanical devices and instruments.
Other common job duties include:
- training clients how to use instruments and equipment
- using diagnostic software to identify electronic issues
- performing inspections
- researching new and better technologies
- working with engineers and other professionals to design new equipment
Instrumentation and controls technicians often work in manufacturing settings such as oil refineries, food processing plants, and factories.
They may also work in hospitals, electromedical facilities, and chemical plants. Regardless of where they work, it is their job to make sure the various pieces of equipment stay in good working order.
Instrumentation and controls technicians usually work a set number of hours weekly, though the hours worked can vary depending on the specific position.
They may also have to work after hours if a crucial piece of equipment malfunctions.
What Skills Do You Need To Become an Instrumentation and Controls Technician?
Instrumentation and controls technicians must have excellent mechanical skills and an understanding of how various machines work. They must be good at working with their hands.
They have excellent critical thinking skills, pay attention to detail, and are good at solving problems. They take an analytical approach to machine malfunctions in order to solve the problem.
Additionally, they must have good communication skills, both oral and written.
Much of their job involves explaining mechanical processes and operations to clients, communicating problems to coworkers and superiors, and writing detailed reports about repairs and installations.
Instrumentation and controls technicians are generally good at math since the job involves calculating and measuring various data.
Finally, they must be skilled at researching new developments within the field and learning how to work with new pieces of equipment as technologies advance.
So, does this sound like a good job for you? Keep reading to learn how to becomes an instrumentation and controls technician:
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
This is the most basic level of education you need to break into this field.
Some employers will hire candidates possessing only a high school diploma or GED. Others require advanced education, which having a diploma or GED makes possible.
While you are still in high school, take as many technical and scientific courses as you can. Classes such as computer science, advanced mathematics, and physics can all help you prepare for your future career.
Step 2: Consider Attending College or Vocational School
Most employers prefer to hire those who hold an associate or bachelor's degree. Aspiring technicians who have graduated from vocational school are also given preference.
Completing an Associate of Applied Science degree in engineering technology or a related field is an excellent choice if you want to be an instrumentation and controls tech.
You may also opt for a Bachelor of Science or Applied Science in a related field. This will help you stand out from the crowd and enable you to pursue advanced certifications.
Finally, you can choose to enter an undergraduate certificate program offered through a college or university. This will provide specific training and allow you to graduate more quickly.
Step 3: Gain Volunteer and Internship Experience
While in high school or college or while searching for your first job, consider building your resume through volunteer and internship opportunities.
You can often find local opportunities online by checking job boards and social media posts.
Look for positions in a field related to science, math, or mechanical engineering. Local factories or manufacturing plants are a good place to start.
You may also consider working an entry-level position in engineering, landscaping, or construction.
This will allow you to gain experience working with machinery and building skills that will help as you advance in your career.
Step 4: Work as an Assistant
Instrumentation and controls technicians often start out by working as an assistant to a technician already established in the field.
These entry-level assistant positions are relatively easy to come by, and they help you to develop real skills in your chosen field while learning directly from a more experienced worker.
What's more, working as an assistant will also enable you to network with other instrumentation and control technicians and get noticed for potential promotions that become available.
Step 5: Consider Obtaining Certifications
Instrumentation and control technicians are not required to have any professional certifications. However, several certifications are available that may improve your career prospects.
These certifications include:
- Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)
- Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
- Electrical Power Testing
Obtaining these certifications will make you a more desirable candidate and may make you eligible for promotions and pay increases.
Become an Instrumentation and Controls Technician Today
Becoming an instrumentation and controls technician is a great career path for anyone who loves working on machines.
By following the steps in this article, you'll soon find yourself well on your way to a rewarding job in this field.
