ELECTRONICS REPAIRERS (COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT) Number 222 Interest Area 5-D 1998
THE JOB
ELECTRONICS REPAIRERS use their thorough knowledge of electronics theory and circuitry to maintain, service, and repair a variety of automated assembly line systems, as well as production and test equipment. These highly skilled, versatile workers are often known by titles such as line maintenance technician, equipment support technician, or equipment maintenance technician.
Automation is common in almost every industry. Electronically operated and controlled systems and processing machines are installed frequently. Many of these units are computer operated, while others may be electro- mechanical, vacuum, or pneumatic systems that have some electronic controls. Electronics Repairers align, adjust, and calibrate the equipment on a regular basis to keep it running efficiently. They modify existing, or develop new industrial electronic devices, circuits, and equipment according to company specifications that may not have complete technical data and instructions. When a malfunction does occur, the entire assembly line may stop, and technicians must work quickly to locate the problem and repair the system so that production can resume as soon as possible.
Electronics Repairers calibrate, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair the equipment and instruments that help them run tests and locate problems. They may also install industrial electronic communication systems and devices such as AM and FM intercommunication transmitters receivers, public address systems, fire alarms, audio recorders, and electronic emergency systems. They use instruments such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, multimeters, pressure gauges and soldering tools to do their work. They keep equipment logs and records of all repairs and services and often keep inventory for spare parts.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Electronics Repairers work in various locations in the manufacturing plant. They spend most of their time servicing automated assembly line equipment. They may also work in other parts of the factory, such as adjusting test equipment in the quality control department, or checking out various instruments in an engineering laboratory. Repairers may stand for long periods of time while working on large control panels, for example. Their work may also require stooping, climbing, and maneuvering in hard-to-reach places.
Many repairers work in the electronics manufacturing industry itself, where electronically controlled systems are in widespread use. Repairers in the electronic manufacturing may work in clean rooms where the temperature, humidity, and dust content of the air are carefully controlled through the use of filters and tightly sealed rooms. In other factories, they may work amid noise, heat, and fumes.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Information Division.
Estimated number of workers in 1993 7,040 Estimated number of workers in 2005 5,550 Projected Growth 1993-2005 -21% Estimated openings due to separations by 2005 1,940
(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)
A wide variety of electronically controlled, automated assembly line systems and processing machines are already in use. Installation of automated equipment is growing as manufacturers seek new ways to increase production and reduce costs. As a result of this, the outlook for Electronics Repairers is not good. Repairers with experience in analog and digital circuitry and printed circuit repair who also have knowledge of test equipment and power supplies will have the best chance to find a job.
Employers at times report a shortage of experienced repairers with these important skills. Inexperienced repairers who have completed electronics training will have trouble finding employment.
WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS
The median wage for Electronics Repairer in California is $15.52 an hour.
The standard work week is 40 hours, weekdays. Many companies employ repairers on swing and night shifts, as well as day shifts. Those working night shifts can generally expect from 10 up to 15 percent differential in pay, or they may work fewer hours for the same base wage.
Occasionally, repairers may be on call during their off-duty hours. Employers usually pay time and one-half or double time for holidays. Fringe benefits usually include holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, and health and life insurance plans. Some employers also offer profit-sharing, stock purchase plans, and bonus programs. If required, protective clothing is usually supplied by the employer.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING
Because repairers must understand and apply electronics theory, formal training in electronics is almost always required. In addition to high school graduation and a solid background in math and the physical sciences, most employers expect applicants to have a certificate or Associate of Science degree in electronics technology.
Many of California's community colleges offer one-year certificates or two- year degree programs in electronics technology as well as courses in related subjects. Training is also available through adult education programs, private technical schools and Regional Occupational Programs (ROP). Military or other technical training is also acceptable.
Electronics Repairers are certified by trade associations; while it is not required, certified repairers may find that it is easier to get hired and qualify for promotions.
Repairers need analytical skills and the ability to work independently much of the time. They should be able to work from blueprints, schematic diagrams, sketches, and verbal instructions. Because they work on small electronics components, some employers may require applicants to be screened for color vision and evaluated for manual dexterity.
ADVANCEMENT
Electronics Repairers with leadership ability may be promoted to supervisory positions. With a bachelor's degree, they may advance to electronic engineering or management positions.
FINDING THE JOB
Job seekers should contact employers directly, respond to want ads in local newspapers and trade journals and register with the California Employment Development Department Job Service. Associations for electronic technicians and repairers often provide job leads to members.
Many trade schools and colleges have career placement centers where employers list job orders and sometimes send recruiters to hold in-person job interviews.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION
The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians 2708 West Berry Street, Suite 3 Fort Worth, TX 76109 (817) 921-9101
Electronics Technicians Association 602 North Jackson Greencastle, IN 46135 (765) 653-8262
RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians No. 60 Data Processing Equipment Repairers No. 152
OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed.,1991) Field Service Engineer 828.261-014 Electronics Mechanic 828.261-022
OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System Data Processing Equipment Repairers 857050 Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment 857170
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162.
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