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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Electro Technician

💰 $55,000 - $90,000

Skilled TradesManufacturingEngineeringMaintenance

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a highly skilled and detail-oriented Electro Technician to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with a deep understanding of electrical and electronic systems within a manufacturing or industrial environment. You will be the go-to expert for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing sophisticated machinery, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal operational efficiency. This role is critical to our success, as you'll be on the front lines, applying your technical expertise to keep our production running smoothly and safely. If you thrive on diagnosing complex issues and implementing effective solutions, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Apprentice Electrician or Electrical Helper
  • Electronics Assembler or Technician
  • Maintenance Mechanic with strong electrical aptitude

Advancement To:

  • Senior or Lead Electro Technician
  • Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
  • Controls or Automation Engineer
  • Field Service Engineer

Lateral Moves:

  • Instrumentation Technician
  • Automation Technician
  • Quality Control Engineer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform advanced troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of electrical, electronic, and pneumatic systems on a wide range of industrial production equipment.
  • Read and interpret complex electrical blueprints, wiring schematics, and technical manuals to identify and resolve issues with machinery.
  • Install, test, and commission new equipment, ensuring all electrical components and control systems meet manufacturer specifications and safety standards.
  • Conduct routine preventive and predictive maintenance on electrical systems, including PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, sensors, and servo motors, to prevent failures and extend equipment life.
  • Calibrate electronic instruments and control devices to ensure accuracy and optimal performance in the production process.
  • Program, troubleshoot, and modify Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), primarily Allen-Bradley and Siemens, to optimize machine functionality.
  • Safely work with low and high voltage systems (up to 480V 3-phase), adhering strictly to NFPA 70E standards and company-specific lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures.
  • Document all maintenance activities, repairs, and component replacements meticulously in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
  • Identify and source necessary replacement parts, working with vendors and the parts department to maintain an adequate inventory of critical spares.
  • Fabricate and install electrical control panels, conduit, and wiring for new projects or equipment modifications according to NEC and local codes.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for electrical maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.
  • Respond promptly to emergency breakdowns and unscheduled maintenance calls to minimize production downtime.
  • Utilize a variety of diagnostic tools, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, meggers, and thermal imaging cameras, to accurately diagnose faults.
  • Collaborate with mechanical maintenance technicians and engineers to perform comprehensive root cause analysis on equipment failures.
  • Provide technical support and guidance to machine operators and junior technicians on electrical safety and equipment operation.
  • Assemble, install, and test electrical and electronic components, sub-assemblies, and systems from schematics or verbal instructions.
  • Inspect and test circuits and wiring for continuity, resistance, and proper connections using standard electrical testing equipment.
  • Upgrade and retrofit older equipment with modern control systems and components to improve reliability, safety, and efficiency.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing equipment performance and reducing maintenance costs.
  • Ensure all work is performed in compliance with OSHA, NEC, and internal company safety policies and regulations.

Secondary Functions

  • Support engineering teams by gathering and providing operational data from equipment to assist in performance analysis.
  • Contribute to the development and refinement of the preventive maintenance strategy and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Collaborate with production, engineering, and safety departments to address ongoing equipment issues and drive process improvements.
  • Participate in daily team meetings, sprint planning, and agile ceremonies to coordinate maintenance activities and project work.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • PLC Troubleshooting & Programming: Proficiency with Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix) and/or Siemens (S7) platforms.
  • VFD and Motor Control: Strong knowledge of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), servo drives, and AC/DC motor control circuits.
  • Schematic Interpretation: Ability to read and interpret electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics and blueprints.
  • Electrical Diagnostics: Expert use of diagnostic tools such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, meggers, and clamp-on ammeters.
  • Industrial Controls: Deep understanding of sensors, relays, HMIs, and other industrial control components.
  • NEC and NFPA 70E: Solid working knowledge of the National Electrical Code and electrical safety standards.
  • CMMS Software: Experience using a Computerized Maintenance Management System for work order tracking and documentation.
  • Robotics Maintenance: Experience with troubleshooting and maintaining industrial robots (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB) is a plus.
  • Conduit and Wiring: Skill in bending conduit, pulling wire, and terminating connections according to code.
  • Soldering and Component Repair: Ability to perform board-level repairs and precise soldering/desoldering.
  • Instrumentation & Calibration: Experience with calibrating and maintaining process instruments (pressure, temperature, flow).

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: A systematic and analytical approach to diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all work, from wiring to documentation.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to clearly explain technical issues to non-technical personnel and collaborate effectively with team members.
  • Safety-Conscious: A strong commitment to following safety protocols (LOTO, PPE) without compromise.
  • Time Management: Excellent at prioritizing tasks and managing workload in a fast-paced environment.
  • Adaptability: Flexible and able to quickly learn new systems and technologies.
  • Teamwork: Collaborative spirit and willingness to support colleagues to achieve team goals.
  • Self-Motivation: A proactive and independent worker who takes ownership of their responsibilities.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED, coupled with a certificate from a technical/vocational school in an electrical or electronics discipline.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or Industrial Electronics Technology.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electronics Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance Technology
  • Mechatronics
  • Electrical Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-7 years of hands-on experience as an Electro Technician or Industrial Electrician in a manufacturing, production, or similar industrial setting.

Preferred:

  • State Journeyman Electrician license is highly desirable.
  • Experience in a 24/7 manufacturing environment with a focus on minimizing downtime.
  • Experience working in a regulated industry (e.g., food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, automotive).
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