One of the most interesting jobs available is that of an electro-mechanical technician. They are tasked with overseeing some of the most high-tech equipment in the world. Electro-mechanical technicians are often seen as the first line of defense against mechanical equipment breaking down. As the industry progresses, many industries are moving in the direction of automation. This opens up a whole field for skilled -technicians to oversee the machines that are able to get more work done in a shorter period of time. The combination of knowledge in both mechanical and electrical systems is one that is highly sought after in the current work force.
What Does an Electro-Mechanical Technicians Do?
An electro-mechanical technician works in a variety of industries involving both mechanical and electrical machinery to perform an array of tasks. One goal of the electro-mechanical technician is to ensure that the machinery is working properly and putting out a quality product. It is no surprise that automated machines are able to work harder and faster than a human, but who oversees and ensures that these machines are working properly?
Who fixes them when they break? This is where an electro-mechanical technician comes in. While they are not explicitly making the product being manufactured by a machine, they are still an integral part of the entire supply chain. Without this position, various manufacturing processes would quickly come to a screeching halt. The electro-mechanical technician must ensure that the machines are properly maintained and that the parts that wear out over time are replaced with new ones in a timely manner. Additionally, accuracy is highly important as well. Some of these precision machines must be regularly calibrated to ensure that they are hitting the mark every time.
Where Do Electro-Mechanical Technicians Work?
This position spreads to so many different industries so an electro-mechanical technician can work anywhere that large machinery is present, or focuses on computer science such as CAD design. This means any manufacturing plant would need the services a technician with these qualifications.
The energy sector also has a large demand for this type of employee given the cross section of both large mechanical equipment, such as turbines, and the control systems that monitor the distribution and generation of electricity over large areas.
What Kind of Jobs are Available for New Electro-Mechanical Technicians?
The types of jobs available to new graduates are just as wide ranging as the types of industries that require their services. For instance, a new graduate may find themselves working as an industrial automation technician. This can include anything from completing routine maintenance to troubleshooting problems that occur during operation. Much like an auto mechanic, an electro-mechanical technician must understand all of the parts which make the machine tick. They must be able to quickly identify problems and implement cost effective remediation strategies to ensure production line is up and running efficiently.
Another job that an electro- mechanical graduate may get is an engineering technician. These technicians work alongside professional mechanical engineers and electrical engineers to develop a production process and run tests to ensure that the newly created products function as intended. A final example of a possible career path is field service technician. This job is imperative to the energy industry as they troubleshoot through control systems to identify the root cause of the issue and get the generation source back in working order as quickly as possible.
What Type of Skills are Needed for Electro-Mechanical Technicians?
While no two electro-mechanical technician jobs are exactly the same, there are still many similar skills that all good employees must possess. This can include programming knowledge, drafting/design work, as well as the troubleshooting of robotic, electronic, programmable logic controller and hydraulic systems… just to name a few.
Skill #1: Programming Knowledge
Although an electro-mechanical technician is not a programmer, they must understand programming languages and decipher code to troubleshoot and fix mechanical systems. Many of the mechanical systems communicate in a programming language and it is important for the electro-mechanical technician to have a basic knowledge of programming.
Skill #2: Drafting/Design Work
While programming knowledge is important, an electro-mechanical technician must also know how to read a blueprint to determine assembly and verify dimensions. The skill of drafting and design is important for any electro-mechanical technician to better troubleshoot mechanical systems.
Skill #3: Troubleshooting Mechanical Systems
Electro-mechanical technicians should have a firm grasp on motors, drives, and many other mechanical systems. They should know how to systematically troubleshoot a mechanical system by understanding the steps to identify a problem and pick the most optimal solution to fixing the mechanical system.
The majority of electro-mechanical technicians go through a technical school to get their certifications. This is a huge advantage for those looking to enter this line of work. A technical school allows a graduate to attend a highly focused and accelerated program. These programs are typically much shorter than traditional four-year colleges and universities, so the savings in tuition is noticeable as well.
Interested in becoming an Electro-Mechanical Technician? Starting with electro-mechanical training is a great way to investment in your future. This can open the door to a career in a variety of industries, including computer science, mechanical engineering support, manufacturing, robotics and automation! Inquire today to learn more about MIAT’s Electro-Mechanical Technology programs.
The Electro-Mechanical Technology programs from MIAT College of Technology provide the practical experience and industry support it takes to pursue a rewarding technical career.
MIAT College of Technology is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
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