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Calibration Technologists and Technicians

SOC: 17-3028 • Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET

What They Do

Calibration Technologists and Technicians typically perform the following 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.

Key facts

Median: $65,040
Employment: 15,800
Growth (2024–2034): +5.0%
Education: Associate's degree

Career Intelligence Metrics

Automation Risk Assessment

Low Risk
17.0% probability of being automated in the next 10-20 years. This job is relatively safe from automation due to its creative, social, or complex problem-solving requirements.

Work-Life Balance Score

7.2/10
Good work-life balance based on typical work schedules, stress levels, and time demands.

Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)

8.2
Realistic
8.8
Investigative
6.4
Artistic
5.2
Social
5.8
Enterprising
6.6
Conventional
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling

Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.

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Top Skills

Communication skills Critical-thinking skills Detail oriented Dexterity Physical strength Technical skills

Strengths

  • High Demand
  • Flexible Work
  • Continuous Learning

Challenges

  • Burnout Risk
  • Rapid Technological Change

Median Salary Comparison

Employment projection (2024–2034)

Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis

BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05
View Interactive BLS Maps

States with Highest Employment

  • Texas 3,680
  • California 1,320
  • Florida 850
  • Pennsylvania 690
  • New York 650
  • Louisiana 580
  • Ohio 570
  • North Carolina 470
  • Indiana 460
  • Michigan 450
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)

Regional Wage Variations

  • Texas -1%
    $64,270
  • California +7%
    $69,840
  • Florida -5%
    $61,930
  • Pennsylvania -5%
    $61,680
  • New York -8%
    $59,740
  • Ohio -4%
    $62,610
  • North Carolina -3%
    $62,910
  • Indiana -1%
    $64,270
  • Michigan +8%
    $70,140
  • Arizona +27%
    $82,890
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences
85%
Electronic and precision equipment repair and maintenance
70%
Manufacturing
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South