HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A secondary student interested in this career may focus on math, physics, and technical or shop courses. After high school, many people enter an apprenticeship, college program, or other technical training related to instrumentation, industrial controls, or a similar field. Some learn through a mix of classroom instruction and supervised work experience. Employers may look for strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and comfort working with tools, electrical components, and measurement equipment. Additional workplace training is often part of the job.
THE WORK
What you may do
- Install, inspect, and maintain instruments and control devices
- Troubleshoot equipment problems and identify faults
- Calibrate instruments to help ensure accurate readings
- Repair or replace worn or damaged parts
- Test systems after service or repair
- Keep work records and follow safety procedures
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A typical day may include checking instruments, diagnosing a control issue, and using tools or test equipment to make repairs. The work can involve moving between work areas, reading diagrams, measuring performance, and making careful adjustments. An instrument mechanic may also communicate with coworkers to understand equipment problems, record maintenance tasks, and confirm that systems are working correctly before returning them to service.
SKILLS TO BUILD