Electromechanical Technician

DESCRIPTION
Electromechanical technicians combine knowledge of mechanical engineering technology with knowledge of electrical and electronic circuits to design, develop, test, and manufacture electronic and computer-controlled mechanical systems. Their work often overlaps that of both electrical and electronics engineering technicians and mechanical engineering technicians.

Electromechanical technicians work with equipment that uses electric power to operate mechanical controls. Technicians who work on this equipment understand the basic laws of electricity and electronics as well as mechanics. They also work with hand tools and precise testing equipment, such as voltmeters. Other technicians may work in factories in which electromechanical equipment is made.

Many electromechanical technicians work with the mechanical and electrical engineers who design and develop new equipment. Electromechanical technicians help engineers by performing tests, recording information, preparing written reports, and taking care of other details. Electromechanical technicians may also be directly involved in the production of new electromechanical equipment.

EMPLOYERS
Energy and utility companies, and commercial, manufacturing and industrial facilities.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Most electromechanical technician careers require training in technical schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate degree. Some employers may require a bachelor’s degree.

LINKS TO CAREER/INDUSTRY RESOURCES
Day in the Life of an Electromechanical Technician: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEOb3NQ6Q8M
Get Into Energy Career Profile: Technician: http://getintoenergy.com/utility-technician/
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Human Resources Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET): http://www.abet.org/
Information on certification and career information: National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies: http://www.nicet.org/
O*NET Online: http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/17-3024.00

Photo courtesy of NASA.