Engineering and architecture
Calibration technologists and technicians
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.
Median pay
$67,820
Growth to 2035
+5%
about as fast as average
Openings a year
1,500
Time to qualify*
2 years
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Calibration technologists and technicians
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- Associate's degree
- On-the-job training
- None
- Prior experience
- None
Calculate your switch to calibration technologists and technicians
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Outdoors in all weather
Hazardous conditions
Exposure to disease
Calibration technologists and technicians: 20% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core tasks
- Maintain or repair measurement devices or equipment used for calibration testing.
- Verify part dimensions or clearances using precision measuring instruments to ensure conformance to specifications.
- Conduct calibration tests to determine performance or reliability of mechanical, structural, or electromechanical equipment.
- Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders.
- Visually inspect equipment to detect surface defects.
- Calibrate devices by comparing measurements of pressure, temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions to known standards.
- Write and submit reports about the results of calibration tests.
- Disassemble and reassemble equipment for inspection.
Also called: Calibration Specialist · Calibration Technician (Calibration Tech) · Gauge Specialist · Instrument and Control Technician (I and C Tech) · Instrument Control Technician (Instrument Control Tech) · Quality Technician (Quality Tech)
Outlook and AI
Calibration technologists and technicians held 17,000 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 17,800 by 2035 (+5%, about as fast as average; all jobs: +3.5%).
Compare with
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