Instrument and Control Technician
The Instrument and Control Technician supports utility substations by installing, testing, repairing and maintaining a wide variety of electronics, protective relaying, control, and energy management systems and equipment. This employee is part of the team that conducts mandated North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) testing and compiles documentation to prove compliance.
Also known as: Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Control Technician, Electrical and Instrumentation Mechanic, Electronic Technician, Repair Technician
Pay Scale
$76,250 in 2021 in WA
$61,730 in 2021 in U.S.
Education
Certification, Associate’s, Apprenticeship
Projected Opportunities
140 through 2030 in WA
5,000 through 2031 in U.S.
Career Path
The career path to becoming an instrument & control technician begins with a certification, associate degree, or apprenticeship. Once a technician you can advance in this career by becoming an apprentice meterman and on to a journey-level meterman; or by becoming a team lead and on to a supervisor.
Training & Requirements
Training
There are multiple routes to the position of Instrument & Control Technician. There are certifications, associate degrees, and apprenticeships that can help you get into this role. Most positions will also require 2-4 years of experience in the field as well, so many people begin in another discipline or apprenticeship before advancing.
Required Skills
- Knowledge of electronic equipment, machines, & tools
- Critical thinking skills to identify problems & malfunctions and execute effective solutions
- Comfortable with computer programs such as Microsoft Office and facilities management software
Responsibilities
- Test faulty equipment to diagnose malfunctions
- Repair or replace faulty equipment
- Routine maintenance of equipment & tools
- Maintain equipment logs to record repairs, calibrations, & tests
- Conduct tests to ensure equipment is function properly