Automation technician

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
A US armed forces robot technician repairing the tread of a mine disposal robot

Automation technicians repair and maintain the computer-controlled systems and robotic devices used within industrial and commercial facilities to reduce human intervention and maximize efficiency.

programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These types of systems include robotic assembly devices, conveyors, batch mixers, electrical distribution systems, and building automation systems. These machines and systems are often found within industrial and manufacturing plants, such as food processing facilities. Alternate job titles include field technician, bench technician, robotics technician, PLC technician, production support technician and maintenance technician.[2]

Education and training

Automation technician programs integrate computer programming with mechanics, electronics and

frequency counters
.

Employers generally prefer applicants who have completed an automation technician certificate or associate degree.[4] These programs can be completed at colleges and universities in either an in-class or online format. Some colleges, such as George Brown College, offer an online automation technician program that uses simulation software, LogixSim,[5] to complete automation lab projects and assignments.[6]

Other relevant credentials to become an automation technician include

Robotics Industries Association
and the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council.

Career prospects

Career opportunities for automation technicians include a wide range of manufacturing and service industries such as automotive, pharmaceutical, power distribution, food processing, mining, and transportation. Other career prospects include areas as machine assembly, troubleshooting and testing, systems integration, application support, maintenance, component testing and assembly, automation programming, robot maintenance and programming, technical sales and services.[7][8]

A US armed forces robotics repair technician working on a mine-clearing robot

Typical job-related activities may involve:

  • assembly
  • installation
  • maintenance
  • testing
  • troubleshooting
  • repair
  • upgrading of associated automation equipment and systems.

Experienced automation technicians with advanced training may become specialists or troubleshooters who help other technicians diagnose difficult problems, or work with engineers in designing equipment and developing maintenance procedures. Automation technicians with leadership ability also may eventually become maintenance supervisors or service managers. Due to the highly specialized skills and knowledge required, there are many opportunities available to automation technicians in the

service sector
where there is a great demand for contract and sub-contract work with smaller manufacturing and distribution companies. Some experienced automation technicians open their own design, installation and maintenance companies. They can also become wholesalers or retailers of automation equipment, including inside and outside sales of automation equipment and systems.

Because of their familiarity with control systems and equipment, automation technicians are particularly well qualified to become manufacturers' sales representatives. Other related opportunities include customer service, quality-control, quality-assurance and consulting.

See also

References

  1. ^ "Automation Technician: Job Description, Duties and Requirements". Study.com. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  2. ^ "Autommation Tech. Skills Standards" (PDF). Tssb.org. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  3. ^ "A Job Description for an Automation Technician". Work.chron.com. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  4. ^ "Employment statistics" (PDF). Bls.gov. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  5. ^ "LogixSim - What is LogixSim?". Logixsim.com. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  6. ^ "New Automation Technician Program at George Brown College - RoboticsTomorrow". Roboticstomorrow.com. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  7. ^ "Career Prospects - Automation Technician". Automationprogram.com. Retrieved 30 April 2019.
  8. ^ "Computer Technician Guide". Sunday, May 31, 2020

External links

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