Calibration Technologists and Technicians
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.
Calibration Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $32.61/hr — about $68,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $22.44/hr; the top 10% earn $51.23/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- 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.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Associate degree. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
The feel of the work
Much of the work happens outdoors. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 1.5% of calibration technologists and technicians are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are hands-on, organized and detail-focused and analytical.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
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Quick questions
- How much does a calibration technologists and technician make?
- The median pay is $32.61 per hour — roughly $68,000 a year, with the real range running from about $22.44/hr (10th percentile) to $51.23/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a calibration technologists and technician?
- The typical entry-level education is: Associate degree. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
- What does a calibration technologists and technician actually do all day?
- 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.
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