Occupation Details
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
Operate, test, maintain, or adjust unmanned, automated, servomechanical, or electromechanical equipment. May operate unmanned submarines, aircraft, or other equipment to observe or record visual information at sites such as oil rigs, crop fields, buildings, or for similar infrastructure, deep ocean exploration, or hazardous waste removal. May assist engineers in testing and designing robotics equipment.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Working Conditions
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Relationships
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$49,240.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$62,550.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$76,840.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
380
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
420
+4 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
41
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.1%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
College Helps - Some college classes or training
Experience Requirements
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.
Education Requirements
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Training Details
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.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
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.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Contact your regional representative to learn more about apprenticeships available in your area by visiting Apprenticeship Contacts.
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Quality Control Analysis
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Analog oscilloscopes
- Computerized numerical control CNC lathes
- Computerized numerical control CNC machining centers
- Conductivity sensors
- Coordinate measuring machines CMM
- Desktop computers
- Digital cameras
- Digital multimeters
- Digital oscilloscopes
- Digital tachometers
- Direct current DC power supplies
- Drill presses
- DroneDeploy
- Dynamometers
- Fixed wing unmanned aerial vehicles UAV
- Flow meters
- Force gauges
- Framing squares
- Function generators
- Hammers
- Hardness testers
- Heat treatment furnaces
- Hex wrenches
- Hipot testers
- Hyperspectral imaging equipment
- Impact testers
- Iron workers
- Laptop computers
- Laser alignment tools
- Laser engravers
Technology
- Airdata
- Autodesk Inventor
- Automation Studio
- C++
- CloudCompare
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Human machine interface HMI software
- Laser imaging detection and ranging LIDAR system
- Linux
- Litchi
- Manufacturing resource planning MRP software
- MathWorks Simulink
- McNeel Rhinoceros 3D
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- prepare technical reports or related documentation
- communicate technical information
- develop plans for programs or projects
- precision assemble electronic, electrical, or electromechanical equipment
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
- calculate engineering specifications
- use scientific research methodology
- use technical information in manufacturing or industrial activities
- use technical regulations for engineering problems
- use combination welding procedures
- use knowledge of metric system
- understand engineering data or reports
- understand service or repair manuals
- understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
- evaluate engineering data
- analyze technical data, designs, or preliminary specifications
- analyze test data
- inspect facilities or equipment for regulatory compliance
- examine engineering documents for completeness or accuracy
- read blueprints
- read manufacturing outlines for electronic products
- read schematics
- read technical drawings
- use precision measuring tools or equipment
- operate precision test equipment
- solder electrical or electronic connections or components
- use electrical or electronic test devices or equipment
- use hand or power tools
- set up and operate variety of machine tools
- use oscilloscopes in electronics repair
- use precision measuring devices in mechanical repair work
- record test results, test procedures, or inspection data
- install/connect electrical equipment to power circuit
- modify electrical or electronic equipment or products
- test equipment as part of engineering projects or processes
- install electronic equipment, components, or systems
- repair or replace electrical wiring, circuits, fixtures, or equipment
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Consult with machinists to ensure that electromechanical equipment or systems meet design specifications.
- Assist engineers to implement electromechanical designs in industrial or other settings.
- Develop, test, or program new robots.
- Test performance of electromechanical assemblies, using test instruments such as oscilloscopes, electronic voltmeters, or bridges.
- Install or program computer hardware or machine or instrumentation software in microprocessor-based systems.
- Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders to determine methods and sequences of assembly.
- Modify, maintain, or repair electrical, electronic, or mechanical components, equipment, or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Prepare written documentation of electromechanical test results.
- Inspect parts for surface defects.
- Install electrical or electronic parts and hardware in housings or assemblies, using soldering equipment and hand tools.
- Verify part dimensions or clearances to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments.
- Repair, rework, or calibrate hydraulic or pneumatic assemblies or systems to meet operational specifications or tolerances.
- Fabricate or assemble mechanical, electrical, or electronic components or assemblies.
- Align, fit, or assemble component parts, using hand or power tools, fixtures, templates, or microscopes.
- Select and use laboratory, operational, or diagnostic techniques or test equipment to assess electromechanical circuits, equipment, processes, systems, or subsystems.
- Operate, test, or maintain robotic equipment used for green production applications, such as waste-to-energy conversion systems, minimization of material waste, or replacement of human operators in dangerous work environments.
- Produce electrical, electronic, or mechanical drawings or other related documents or graphics necessary for electromechanical design, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Determine whether selected electromechanical components comply with environmental standards and regulations.
- Select electromechanical equipment, materials, components, or systems to meet functional specifications.
- Develop or implement programs related to the environmental impact of engineering activities.
- Train others to install, use, or maintain robots.
- Establish and maintain inventory, records, or documentation systems.
- Analyze engineering designs of logic or digital circuitry, motor controls, instrumentation, or data acquisition for implementation into new or existing automated, servomechanical, or other electromechanical systems.
- Conduct statistical studies to analyze or compare production costs for sustainable and nonsustainable designs.
- Specify, coordinate, or conduct quality-control or quality-assurance programs and procedures.
- Operate metalworking machines to fabricate housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures.
- Translate electromechanical drawings into design specifications, applying principles of engineering, thermal or fluid sciences, mathematics, or statistics.
- Identify energy-conserving production or fabrication methods, such as by bending metal rather than cutting and welding or casting metal.
- Test and analyze thermodynamic systems for renewable energy applications, such as solar or wind, to maximize energy production.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Computer Explorers
Saturday programs are fun! Build and program Roamer the Robot, Techno Blocks, and Spy bots. Build and film Star Wars Robots. Go one step more and build realistic motorized models!
Learn MoreEngineering technicians
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn MoreFor Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) LEGO League
Considered the little league of the FIRST Robotics Competition, FIRST LEGO League uses LEGO bricks and other elements such as sensors, motors, and gears. Teams gain hands on experience in engineering and computer programming principles as they construct and program their unique robot inventions.
Learn MoreFor Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Competition
The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions.
Learn MoreLEGO? MINDSTORMS?
Robotics is a popular and effective way for teachers to cover important areas of their Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths curricula. The LEGO? MINDSTORMS? for Schools series is tailor-made for classroom and after-school club use. It includes construction sets, programming tools and activity packs.
Learn MoreProject Lead the Way: Gateway to Technology
Project based learning, Gateway To Technology, addresses the interest of middle school students by incorporating national standards in math, science and technology.
Learn MoreProject Lead the Way: Middle School Program- Gateway to Technology
Project based learning, Gateway To Technology, addresses the interest of middle school students by incorporating national standards in math, science and technology.
Learn MoreRensselaer Polytechnic Institute Center for Initiatives in Pre-College Education (CIPCE)
RPI, through CIPCE, works with area K12 teachers and students, as well as local, statewide and national organizations, to promote the use of robotics and other technologies in the classroom. Since its inception, a series of professional development, academic and after-school programs have been created.
Learn MoreUnmanned Vehicle (UV) Operations Specialists
Visit this link for information on this career in the military.
Learn More