Overview

Electromechanical technicians combine knowledge of mechanical technology with knowledge of electrical and electronic circuits. They install, troubleshoot, repair, and upgrade electrical, electronic and computer-controlled mechanical systems, in such work environments as commercial and industrial settings. Equipment such as pumps, motors, valves, conveyors, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) will be installed, maintained and calibrated.

Tasks

  • Align, fit, or assemble component parts, using hand or power tools, fixtures, or templates.
  • Install electrical or electronic parts and hardware in housings or assemblies, using soldering equipment and hand tools.
  • Operate metalworking machines to fabricate housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures.
  • Operate, test, or maintain robotic equipment.
  • Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders to determine methods and sequences of assembly.
  • Install, maintain, troubleshoot and calibrate fluid power and pneumatic systems as well as mechanical drive train systems.

Job Outlook

Electromechanical technicians are generalists in technology, and their broad skill set will help sustain employment. This is especially the case as their skills working with machines wired to computer control systems grow in importance in the manufacturing sector. There should be demand for electromechanical technicians as demand increases for engineers to design and build new equipment in various fields. Consequently, employers will likely seek out electromechanical technicians with knowledge of photonics to help implement and maintain automated processes. Increasing adoption of renewable energies, such as solar power and wind turbines, may also contribute to increased demand for electromechanical technicians.

Term of Apprenticeship

The term of training for an Electromechanical Technician will include 6000 hours (3 years) of structured on-the-job learning (OJL), supplemented by the required hours of related instruction, that will lead to successful completion of the required Core Competencies as stated in the Core Competency Requirements. The term of apprenticeship for all Electromechanical Technicians will include at a minimum 144 hours of structured Related Training Instruction (RTI). Full credit will be given for on-the-job learning evaluated as satisfactory and previous acquisition of the required competencies.

On-the-Job Learning Competencies

Material Requisitioning - 150 hrs
Repair parts for sub assembling, tools, electrical supplies and electrical components

Project Layout - 150 hrs
Planning, layout, material selection

Conduit Work - 150 hrs
Planning and running conduit for electrical circuits in the building and for equipment

Power Distribution - 300 hrs
Installing, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance of power distribution, lighting circuits, buss ducts and buss plugs

Machine Tools - 300 hrs
Troubleshooting, repairing, preventive maintenance, installing machine tools

Small Power Tools, Hoists, & Crane Systems - 450 hrs
Troubleshoot and repair electrically

Cranes & Hoists - 225 hrs
Inspect, preventive maintenance, repair mechanically

Hot Work on Equipment - 150 hrs
Welding, brazing and silver soldering

Electronic Equipment - 300 hrs
Installation, component identification, troubleshooting, repairing printed circuit boards

Customizing Equipment - 300 hrs
Making design changes and updating electrical and mechanical parts

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) - 525 hrs
Reading and understanding ladder logic and components and theories of ladder logic, install, repair and troubleshoot PLC’s

Preventive Maintenance - 1085 hrs
Drive systems, gearboxes, transmissions

Basic Operation of Machines, Equipment & Tools - 375 hrs
Machine Set up, fabrication, welding, grinding & finishing

Fluid Power and Air Systems - 525 hrs
Hydraulic, lubrication, coolant systems and pneumatic system

Transfer Machinery, Equipment and Material Handling - 825 hrs
Pumps, valves, plumbing of process pipes

Cross Training on Equipment - 190 hrs
Engine lathe, drill press/radial drill, mills, grinders, bench work, etc.

TOTAL HOURS 6000