Architecture & Engineering
Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Also called: Calibration Specialist, Calibration Technician (Calibration Tech), Gauge Specialist, Instrument and Control Technician (I and C Tech)
US median pay
$67,820
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
+4.8%
about average or slower
Openings a year (US)
1,500
17,000 employed
Typical entry education
Associate's degree
Preparation 3/5 · Medium preparation
What this job is
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.
What they do day to day
- 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.
- Analyze test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements.
- Plan sequences of calibration tests according to equipment specifications and scientific principles.
Education and preparation
Preparation level 3 of 5 — Medium preparation. Usually vocational training, an associate's degree or an apprenticeship.
Typical entry education (BLS): Associate's degree.
Who this job suits
Mostly Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.