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Description
Install, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain automated and electromechanical production equipment and robotic systems. Configure and test PLCs/HMIs, sensors, actuators, drives, and safety devices; perform calibrations, adjustments, and repairs to maximize uptime and quality. Assist engineers with commissioning, modifications, and continuous improvement of automation and control systems.
Job tasks Attributes
  • • Test performance of automated machines, robots, and control panels using meters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic software.
  • • Read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings to plan work sequences.
  • • Install PLCs, HMIs, sensors, actuators, VFDs, and related hardware in control cabinets and machines.
  • • Align, mount, and assemble automation components using hand and power tools, fixtures, and precision jigs.
  • • Inspect mechanical and electrical parts for wear, damage, or surface defects.
  • • Verify tolerances, clearances, and alignment using calipers, micrometers, and other precision tools.
  • • Fabricate brackets, panels, and fixtures using basic metalworking equipment as needed.
  • • Repair, rework, or calibrate pneumatic and hydraulic circuits, valves, and cylinders.
  • • Train operators and maintenance staff to run, change over, and care for automated equipment and robots.
  • • Program, test, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC, HMI, motion control, and robotic routines.
  • • Operate, test, and maintain automation used for sustainable operations, such as energy monitoring and waste reduction systems.
  • • Document test results, changes, and repairs in CMMS and technical reports.
  • • Assist in designing and integrating motor controls, instrumentation, I/O, and data acquisition into automation systems.
  • • Analyze downtime and production data to compare costs and support continuous improvement.
  • • Collaborate with machinists and fabricators to ensure parts meet automation design requirements.
  • • Verify components and materials meet electrical and environmental codes and standards.
  • • Support programs that reduce environmental impact of automated processes.
  • • Maintain inventory of spare parts, tools, and firmware; update drawings and records.
  • • Build or assemble wiring harnesses, control panels, and subassemblies.
  • • Identify and implement energy-saving control strategies and efficient fabrication methods.
  • • Install or configure industrial networks, PLC firmware, machine software, and instrumentation in microcontroller-based systems.
  • • Troubleshoot and repair electrical, electronic, mechanical, motion, and control system faults.
  • • Create or update electrical schematics and panel layouts using CAD.
  • • Select and use diagnostic tools to test I/O, field devices, networks, and control circuits.
  • • Specify or select sensors, actuators, drives, and controllers to meet functional specifications.
  • • Perform and support quality control checks, safety verifications, and FAT/SAT procedures.
  • • Translate control drawings and functional requirements into tested machine settings and logic changes.
  • • Assist engineers with equipment commissioning, upgrades, and factory acceptance testing.
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Source
Tasks & skills: O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge). Learn more
Sources & Standards: This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
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