Calibration Technologists and Technicians
17-3028.00
Bright Outlook Updated 2025

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Execute or adapt procedures and techniques for calibrating measurement devices, by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics, sometimes under the direction of engineering staff. Determine measurement standard suitability for calibrating measurement devices. May perform preventive maintenance on equipment. May perform corrective actions to address identified calibration problems.

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks

  • Analyze test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements.
  • Attend conferences, workshops, or other training sessions to learn about new tools or methods.
  • Calibrate devices by comparing measurements of pressure, temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions to known standards.
  • Conduct calibration tests to determine performance or reliability of mechanical, structural, or electromechanical equipment.
  • Develop new calibration methods or techniques based on measurement science, analyses, or calibration requirements.
  • Disassemble and reassemble equipment for inspection.
  • Draw plans for developing jigs, fixtures, instruments, or other devices.
  • Maintain or repair measurement devices or equipment used for calibration testing.
  • Operate metalworking machines to fabricate housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures.
  • Order replacement parts for malfunctioning equipment.
  • Plan sequences of calibration tests according to equipment specifications and scientific principles.
  • Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders.
  • Verify part dimensions or clearances using precision measuring instruments to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Visually inspect equipment to detect surface defects.
  • Write and submit reports about the results of calibration tests.
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Technology Skills

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Occupational Requirements

Detailed Work Activities

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Experience Requirements

Job Zone

Title
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Related Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Job Zone Examples
These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
SVP Range
(6.0 to < 7.0)

Training & Credentials

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Worker Characteristics

Interests

Interest code: RCI
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  • Realistic — Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
  • Conventional — Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
  • Investigative — Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wages (2023)
$30.19 hourly, $62,790 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2023)
13,800 employees
Projected growth (2023-2033)
Faster than average (6% to 8%)
Projected job openings (2023-2033)
1,300
State trends
Top industries (2023)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023 wage data and 2023-2033 employment projections . “Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2023-2033). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

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More Information

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