Umair Gaines
Electrical test technicians are responsible for ensuring that electrical power systems are in proper working order. They perform diagnostic tests on various instruments and equipment, evaluate system components, and oversee calibration to meet client or company requirements. Electrical test technicians may also be involved in building and testing circuit boards, performing routine calibration tests of meters, and conducting infrared inspections of high-voltage overhead distribution systems. To become an electrical test technician, one typically needs an associate's degree in a discipline related to engineering technology.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Education | An associate's degree in a discipline relevant to engineering technology |
| Training | Intensive classroom and on-the-job training |
| Salary | $26,000 to $77,000 per year |
| Skills | Mechanical skills, observational skills, writing skills, troubleshooting, safety procedures, electrical systems |
| Job Description | Perform diagnostic tests on various instruments and equipment, evaluate system components, oversee calibration, examine electrical system design, record system concerns and resolutions, perform in-circuit emulation and boundary-scan testing, ensure proper functioning of electrical power systems, execute tests on manufactured products, manipulate and monitor testing processes and instruments, perform periodic tests on equipment, investigate production issues, perform routine calibration tests of meters, perform routine electrical tests of materials, assist in testing complex electric instruments and equipment, perform cathodic protection in underground and overhead structures, perform infrared inspection of high voltage overhead distribution systems, build and test circuit boards, remove or replace components, test communication levels |
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$44.97 $49.97
What You'll Learn
Testing and troubleshooting
Technicians also manipulate and monitor the processes and instruments used in testing manufactured products. They perform periodic tests on equipment to extend service life and determine the need for maintenance or replacement. They investigate production-related issues and ensure that systems meet safety procedures and protocols.
Electrical test technicians also test and troubleshoot rail car electrical systems, using schematics and measuring tools to perform electrical and mechanical testing. They may also be involved in hardware and software updates on electronic devices.
Additionally, electrical test technicians may perform in-circuit emulation and boundary-scan testing (JTAG). They evaluate system components, oversee calibration, and examine electrical system design methods to understand their intricacies and determine the need for updates. They also maintain records of system concerns and resolutions.
Overall, electrical test technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning of electrical systems through comprehensive testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities.
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Safety procedures
Safety is paramount when working with electrical systems and equipment. Electrical test technicians must follow strict safety procedures to ensure their own safety and that of their colleagues and the wider public.
Electrical test technicians must be able to identify and repair equipment malfunctions. They should also be able to calibrate and perform preventative maintenance on equipment and systems, ensuring they are in proper working order and ready to be energized. This involves understanding and adhering to the manufacturer's specifications and industry standards.
Technicians must be able to read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and engineering instructions to safely assemble and disassemble electronic units. They should also be able to identify the correct tools and equipment for the job, ensuring they are used appropriately and maintained in good working order. This includes measuring and diagnostic devices, which are used to test, adjust, and repair equipment.
In addition, electrical test technicians must have excellent writing skills to clearly and accurately document safety procedures, report on onsite construction, design problems, and testing results. Effective documentation ensures that safety protocols are maintained and that any potential hazards or issues are communicated effectively to the relevant stakeholders.
Electrical test technicians should also be aware of and comply with relevant safety regulations and standards, such as ANSI, NETA, NFPA 70, and OSHA standards. They may also be required to undertake specific safety training and certifications to work in certain environments or with particular equipment.
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Electrical systems
Electrical test technicians are responsible for performing diagnostic tests on electrical systems to ensure their proper functioning and optimise performance. They work with high and low voltage electrical circuits, smart-grid systems, control circuits, and other electrical equipment.
Technicians will often use measuring tools and schematics to perform electrical and mechanical testing. They may also need to interpret technical documents, such as blueprints, diagrams, and engineering instructions, to assemble and test electrical systems and components. This requires strong analytical skills and attention to detail, as well as an understanding of electrical theory and safety protocols.
A key aspect of the role is the ability to identify faults and perform corrective maintenance or replacement of electrical components. This includes troubleshooting and resolving system concerns, which may involve bench testing various microprocessor base modules. Technicians also execute periodic tests on equipment in service to extend their service life.
Additionally, electrical test technicians are responsible for maintaining calibration standards and performing calibration on electrical systems and equipment. This may involve overseeing calibration to meet client or company requirements. They also assist in developing new testing methods and supporting root cause analysis for product failures.
Overall, electrical test technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective operation of electrical systems through testing, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
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Calibration
Electrical test technicians are involved in calibrating electrical equipment, including power systems, instruments, and devices. They execute periodic tests and make necessary adjustments to ensure equipment accuracy and prolong its service life. This involves manipulating and monitoring processes during testing. Technicians also investigate production-related issues and perform troubleshooting to optimise equipment functionality.
Electrical test technicians work within established calibration standards, such as those set by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal-OSHA) when dealing with energised equipment. They ensure that electrical equipment complies with these standards and manufacturers' specifications. This includes testing and adjusting equipment to meet specific accuracy requirements.
Metrology and Measurement Science
Electrical test technicians may work across multiple industries, including manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, and construction. Each industry has its own specific calibration requirements. For example, in manufacturing, technicians calibrate pressure gauges to ensure proper assembly equipment function, while in healthcare, they calibrate medical devices to meet stringent accuracy standards.
Skills for Calibration
In addition to technical knowledge, electrical test technicians require a range of skills for effective calibration. These include manual dexterity for handling equipment with precision, strong communication skills for reporting test outcomes, attention to detail for noting and addressing minor discrepancies, and critical thinking skills for devising new methods to adjust measurement devices.
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Writing reports
Electrical test technicians are responsible for ensuring that electrical power systems are in proper working order and are ready to be energised. They execute tests on manufactured products, manipulating and monitoring the processes and instruments used in testing.
Technicians often need to read and understand blueprints, diagrams, and engineering instructions for assembling electronic units. They then record data on testing techniques, laboratory equipment, and specifications. For example, they may document the calibration of equipment to achieve specific standards.
In addition to writing reports, electrical test technicians may also be required to perform hardware and software updates on electronic devices, as well as troubleshoot and repair electrical equipment and systems. They must have a strong understanding of technological and mechanical industries to effectively perform their duties.
To become an electrical test technician, one typically needs an associate's degree in a discipline relevant to engineering technology, such as electronics and circuits. On-the-job training is also provided to new electrical test technicians, allowing them to develop the skills and techniques required for their specific role and employer.
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Frequently asked questions
You need an associate's degree in a discipline relevant to engineering technology, such as fundamental electronics and circuits.
Electrical test technicians ensure that electrical power systems are in proper working order. They do this by performing diagnostic tests on various instruments and equipment, evaluating system components, and overseeing calibration. They also test, troubleshoot, and repair electrical equipment.
The average salary for an electrical test technician in the United States is $52,690 per year or $25 per hour. Salaries can range from $26,000 to $77,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
