A calibration technician begins their day by reviewing calibration schedules and analyzing test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements. They conduct calibration tests comparing measurements of pressure, temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions to known standards. Throughout the day, they disassemble and reassemble equipment for inspection, maintain and repair measurement devices, and may operate metalworking machines to fabricate custom housings, jigs, or fixtures. They document their findings, order replacement parts for malfunctioning equipment, and may draw technical plans for developing specialized calibration tools. The work requires constant attention to environmental conditions and precise measurement protocols.
Individuals who excel in this role possess exceptional attention to detail and dependability, as evidenced by the top work styles. They have a Realistic and Conventional personality orientation, enjoying hands-on technical work with measurable outcomes while following established procedures. Success requires strong analytical thinking to evaluate equipment characteristics and determine specifications, combined with mechanical aptitude for disassembly and repair tasks. Those who thrive are methodical problem-solvers who can work independently while maintaining rigorous quality standards. They appreciate the blend of scientific knowledge application and practical technical skills, finding satisfaction in ensuring measurement accuracy that supports broader engineering and manufacturing operations.
Calibration work has moderate automation resistance due to the complex problem-solving and adaptation required for diverse measurement scenarios. While automated calibration systems handle routine procedures, technicians remain essential for troubleshooting, developing new methods, and handling non-standard equipment. The increasing sophistication of measurement devices and quality standards actually enhances demand for skilled calibration professionals who can work with advanced automated systems.
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| TERM | COUNT | FREQ | BAR | SOURCE ATTRIBUTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tendency | 42 | 0.0438 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| calibration | 25 | 0.0261 | inference 72% onet tasks 28% | |
| equipment | 20 | 0.0209 | dwas 35% onet tasks 30% | |
| measurement | 14 | 0.0146 | inference 86% onet tasks 14% | |
| technical | 13 | 0.0136 | inference 62% dwas 31% | |
| others | 10 | 0.0104 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| standards | 9 | 0.0094 | onet dimensi 44% inference 44% | |
| medical | 9 | 0.0094 | wikipedia 100% | |
| devices | 8 | 0.0084 | inference 50% onet tasks 38% | |
| technology | 8 | 0.0084 | wikipedia 62% inference 38% | |
| orientation | 7 | 0.0073 | onet dimensi 86% inference 14% | |
| test | 6 | 0.0063 | dwas 33% inference 33% | |
| repair | 6 | 0.0063 | inference 50% dwas 33% | |
| difficult | 6 | 0.0063 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| self | 6 | 0.0063 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| healthcare | 6 | 0.0063 | wikipedia 100% | |
| professionals | 6 | 0.0063 | wikipedia 50% inference 50% | |
| laboratory | 6 | 0.0063 | wikipedia 100% | |
| engineering | 6 | 0.0063 | inference 83% wikipedia 17% | |
| requirements | 5 | 0.0052 | onet tasks 40% dwas 40% | |
| tests | 5 | 0.0052 | onet tasks 60% wikipedia 20% | |
| mechanical | 5 | 0.0052 | inference 60% onet tasks 20% | |
| science | 5 | 0.0052 | wikipedia 40% inference 40% | |
| specifications | 5 | 0.0052 | onet tasks 40% dwas 40% | |
| detail | 5 | 0.0052 | onet dimensi 80% inference 20% | |
| manufacturing | 5 | 0.0052 | inference 80% wikipedia 20% | |
| tools | 4 | 0.0042 | inference 50% onet tasks 25% | |
| scientific | 4 | 0.0042 | inference 50% onet tasks 25% | |
| precision | 4 | 0.0042 | inference 50% onet tasks 25% | |
| inspect | 4 | 0.0042 | dwas 75% onet tasks 25% |
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 17-3028.00 · Calibration Technologists and Technicians 7 source blocks · click to expand
[None] Analyze test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements. DWAs: Evaluate characteristics of products. | Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements. [None] Attend conferences, workshops, or other training sessions to learn about new tools or methods. DWAs: Update technical knowledge. [None] Calibrate devices by comparing measurements of pressure, temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions to known standards. DWAs: Calibrate scientific or technical equipment. [None] Conduct calibration tests to determine performance or reliability of mechanical, structural, or electromechanical equipment. DWAs: Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment. [None] Develop new calibration methods or techniques based on measurement science, analyses, or calibration requirements. DWAs: Develop technical methods or processes. [None] Disassemble and reassemble equipment for inspection. DWAs: Reassemble equipment after repair. | Disassemble equipment to inspect for deficiencies. [None] Draw plans for developing jigs, fixtures, instruments, or other devices. DWAs: Draw detailed or technical illustrations. [None] Maintain or repair measurement devices or equipment used for calibration testing. DWAs: Repair precision devices or workpieces. | Maintain test equipment. [None] Operate metalworking machines to fabricate housings, jigs, fittings, or fixtures. DWAs: Fabricate products or components using machine tools. [None] Order replacement parts for malfunctioning equipment. DWAs: Order materials, supplies, or equipment. [None] Plan sequences of calibration tests according to equipment specifications and scientific principles. DWAs: Prepare detailed work plans. [None] Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders. DWAs: Review blueprints or specifications to determine work requirements. [None] Verify part dimensions or clearances using precision measuring instruments to ensure conformance to specifications. DWAs: Inspect finished products to locate flaws. [None] Visually inspect equipment to detect surface defects. DWAs: Inspect condition or functioning of facilities or equipment. [None] Write and submit reports about the results of calibration tests. DWAs: Write reports or evaluations.
--- WORK STYLES --- Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Dependability (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Dependability (imp:2.65) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Cautiousness (imp:2.47) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Attention to Detail (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Intellectual Curiosity (imp:1.93) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Integrity (imp:1.79) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Achievement Orientation (imp:1.77) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Perseverance (imp:1.58) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Adaptability (imp:1.41) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Innovation (imp:1.17) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Cautiousness (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Self-Control (imp:0.97) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Stress Tolerance (imp:0.95) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Confidence (imp:0.89) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Cooperation (imp:0.78) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Initiative (imp:0.74) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.60) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Sincerity (imp:0.38) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Humility (imp:0.15) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Optimism (imp:0.09) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Empathy (imp:-0.18) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Social Orientation (imp:-0.18) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.19) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
--- NATIONAL WAGES --- total_employment : 16,540 annual_median : $67,820 annual_pct10 : $46,680 annual_pct25 : $56,380 annual_pct75 : $92,080 annual_pct90 : $106,550 annual_mean : $74,170 hourly_median : $32.61 --- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION --- highest_state : Washington ($93,880) lowest_state : Puerto Rico ($38,460) dispersion_ratio : 2.441x --- TOP STATES BY WAGE (37 total) --- Manufacturing emp: 5,950 median: $ 73,760 Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp: 4,280 median: $ 61,800 Other Services (except Public Administration) emp: 1,660 median: $ 61,930 Wholesale Trade emp: 1,460 median: $ 60,760 Transportation and Warehousing emp: 650 median: $ 90,780 Construction emp: 620 median: $ 80,660 Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction emp: 560 median: $ 88,160 Utilities emp: 310 median: $ 101,950 Real Estate and Rental and Leasing emp: 230 median: $ 65,800 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 220 median: $ 35,970 --- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (14 total) --- Manufacturing emp: 5,950 median: $ 73,760 Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp: 4,280 median: $ 61,800 Other Services (except Public Administration) emp: 1,660 median: $ 61,930 Wholesale Trade emp: 1,460 median: $ 60,760 Transportation and Warehousing emp: 650 median: $ 90,780 Construction emp: 620 median: $ 80,660 Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction emp: 560 median: $ 88,160 Utilities emp: 310 median: $ 101,950 Real Estate and Rental and Leasing emp: 230 median: $ 65,800 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 220 median: $ 35,970
exact_match_status : no_exact_match matched_title : N/A match_score : 0.0000 wikidata_qid : N/A word_count : 0 wikipedia_url : N/A license : CC BY-SA 4.0 fetched_at : 2026-06-02T20:40:48.019491Z --- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) --- Title: Radiographer (similarity: 0.1887) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiographer QID: Q2294052 Extract: Radiographers are healthcare professionals who perform medical imaging and radiation therapy. Medical imaging is used for the diagnosis of pathology, while radiation therapy is used for treatment. Title: Medical laboratory scientist (similarity: 0.3768) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_laboratory_scientist QID: Q708800 Extract: A medical laboratory scientist (MLS), clinical laboratory scientist (CLS), or medical technologist (MT) is a licensed healthcare professional who performs diagnostic testing of body fluids, examples: blood, urine, sputum and other body tissue. The medical technologist is tasked with releasing the pa Title: Industrial technology (similarity: 0.3871) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_technology QID: Q10952243 Extract: Industrial technology is the use of engineering and manufacturing technology to make production faster, simpler, and more efficient. The industrial technology field employs creative and technically proficient individuals who can help a company achieve efficient and profitable productivity. Title: Medical equipment management (similarity: 0.2609) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_equipment_management QID: Q6806524 Extract: Medical equipment management is a term for the professionals who manage operations, analyze and improve utilization and safety, and support servicing healthcare technology. These healthcare technology managers are, much like other healthcare professionals referred to by various specialty or organiza Title: Medical laboratory (similarity: 0.2712) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_laboratory QID: Q2296168 Extract: A medical laboratory or clinical laboratory is a laboratory where tests are conducted out on clinical specimens to obtain information about the health of a patient to aid in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. Clinical medical laboratories are an example of applied science, as opposed t
model_pass1 : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2 : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes : Strong confidence based on detailed task descriptions, clear RIASEC profile, comprehensive wage data, and well-defined related occupations providing robust context for this specialized technical role.
inferred_at : 2026-06-03T15:14:21.038851+00:00
tokens_input : 3,556
tokens_output : 4,344
cost_usd : $0.045123
wikipedia_used : False
wikipedia_title : None
wikipedia_note : No exact Wikipedia match found. Industrial technology was the closest semantic match at 0.387 similarity, covering engineering and manufacturing technology applications relevant to calibration work.
--- PROSE FIELDS ---
ROLE SUMMARY:
Calibration Technologists and Technicians execute procedures for calibrating measurement devices by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics. They ensure that testing and measuring equipment maintains accuracy and reliability according to established standards. These professionals analyze test data, develop calibration methods, and maintain measurement devices across manufacturing and professional services industries.
DAY IN THE LIFE:
A calibration technician begins their day by reviewing calibration schedules and analyzing test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements. They conduct calibration tests comparing measurements of pressure, temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions to known standards. Throughout the day, they disassemble and reassemble equipment for inspection, maintain and repair measurement devices, and may operate metalworking machines to fabricate custom housings, jigs, or fixtures. They document their findings, order replacement parts for malfunctioning equipment, and may draw technical plans for developing specialized calibration tools. The work requires constant attention to environmental conditions and precise measurement protocols.
WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role possess exceptional attention to detail and dependability, as evidenced by the top work styles. They have a Realistic and Conventional personality orientation, enjoying hands-on technical work with measurable outcomes while following established procedures. Success requires strong analytical thinking to evaluate equipment characteristics and determine specifications, combined with mechanical aptitude for disassembly and repair tasks. Those who thrive are methodical problem-solvers who can work independently while maintaining rigorous quality standards. They appreciate the blend of scientific knowledge application and practical technical skills, finding satisfaction in ensuring measurement accuracy that supports broader engineering and manufacturing operations.
CAREER ENTRY:
Entry into this field typically requires an associate degree in engineering technology, electronics, or a related technical field, though some positions accept relevant certification with strong technical background. Job Zone 3 classification indicates medium preparation is needed, often including coursework in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics. Many employers provide on-the-job training for specific calibration procedures and equipment. Previous experience with precision measurement tools, mechanical systems, or electronics repair provides valuable foundation for this role.
CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Calibration technicians often advance to calibration engineering roles, quality assurance management, or specialized technical positions in metrology. The strong foundation in measurement science and diverse technical skills opens pathways to related engineering technician roles in aerospace, electrical, or mechanical specializations. Some professionals transition to field service technician roles or move into supervisory positions overseeing calibration laboratories. Advanced practitioners may become calibration consultants or develop expertise in emerging measurement technologies.
MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, calibration technologists and technicians earn a median annual wage of $67,820, with employment of 16,540 nationwide. The wage range spans from $46,680 at the 10th percentile to $106,550 at the 90th percentile, reflecting significant earning potential with experience and specialization. Geographic variation is substantial, with Washington state offering the highest wages at $93,880 compared to Puerto Rico's $38,460, representing a 2.44x ratio. Employment is concentrated in manufacturing (5,950 positions) and professional, scientific, and technical services (4,280 positions), indicating strong demand across precision-dependent industries. The specialized nature of calibration work and increasing complexity of measurement systems supports steady employment prospects.
AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Calibration work has moderate automation resistance due to the complex problem-solving and adaptation required for diverse measurement scenarios. While automated calibration systems handle routine procedures, technicians remain essential for troubleshooting, developing new methods, and handling non-standard equipment. The increasing sophistication of measurement devices and quality standards actually enhances demand for skilled calibration professionals who can work with advanced automated systems.
--- REASONED EDGES ---
[skill_overlap] Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians (17-3023.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles share electronics knowledge application and precision testing requirements with similar technical troubleshooting demands.
data: electronics knowledge
data: testing procedures
data: equipment maintenance
[task_similarity] Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians (17-3027.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both involve equipment disassembly/reassembly, technical drawing, and metalworking machine operation for fabrication tasks.
data: disassemble and reassemble equipment
data: operate metalworking machines
data: draw technical plans
[transferable_skill] Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment (49-2094.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Equipment repair and maintenance skills transfer directly, with shared focus on precision measurement and troubleshooting.
data: repair measurement devices
data: maintain equipment
data: troubleshooting skills
[riasec_cluster] Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers (51-9061.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both roles share Realistic-Conventional RIASEC profile with emphasis on systematic testing and quality verification procedures.
data: R:6.30, C:5.59 RIASEC
data: systematic testing
data: quality procedures
[knowledge_overlap] Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians (17-3024.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Shared application of physics, mathematics, and electronics knowledge for precision mechanical and electrical systems work.
data: physics knowledge
data: electronics application
data: precision measurement
[wage_band] Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians (17-3021.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Similar median wage levels reflecting comparable technical skill requirements and Job Zone 3 preparation levels.
data: $67,820 median wage
data: Job Zone 3
data: technical specialization
--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
match_keywords : ['calibration technician', 'calibration technologist', 'calibration specialist', 'instrument technician', 'measurement technician', 'metrology technician', 'equipment calibration', 'precision measurement']
exclude_keywords : ['software calibration', 'automotive calibration', 'network calibration', 'database calibration', 'camera calibration']
title_patterns : ['Calibration Technician', 'Calibration Specialist', 'Instrument Technician', 'Metrology Technician', 'Equipment Calibration Tech']
common_variations: ['calibration tech', 'cal tech', 'instrument cal tech', 'measurement device technician', 'precision measurement tech', 'calibration coordinator', 'calibration engineer', 'metrology specialist']
total_terms : 40 top_words : ['tendency', 'calibration', 'equipment', 'measurement', 'technical', 'others', 'standards', 'medical', 'devices', 'technology', 'orientation', 'test', 'repair', 'difficult', 'self', 'healthcare', 'professionals', 'laboratory', 'engineering', 'requirements'] source_layers : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference TERM COUNT FREQ DOMINANT SOURCE SOURCE BREAKDOWN ────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── tendency 42 0.04384 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% calibration 25 0.02610 inference inference:72% onet_tasks:28% equipment 20 0.02088 dwas dwas:35% onet_tasks:30% inference:30% measurement 14 0.01461 inference inference:86% onet_tasks:14% technical 13 0.01357 inference inference:62% dwas:31% onet_tasks:8% others 10 0.01044 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% standards 9 0.00940 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:44% inference:44% onet_tasks:11% medical 9 0.00940 wikipedia wikipedia:100% devices 8 0.00835 inference inference:50% onet_tasks:38% dwas:12% technology 8 0.00835 wikipedia wikipedia:62% inference:38% orientation 7 0.00731 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:86% inference:14% test 6 0.00626 dwas dwas:33% inference:33% onet_tasks:17% repair 6 0.00626 inference inference:50% dwas:33% onet_tasks:17% difficult 6 0.00626 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% self 6 0.00626 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% healthcare 6 0.00626 wikipedia wikipedia:100% professionals 6 0.00626 wikipedia wikipedia:50% inference:50% laboratory 6 0.00626 wikipedia wikipedia:100% engineering 6 0.00626 inference inference:83% wikipedia:17% requirements 5 0.00522 onet_tasks onet_tasks:40% dwas:40% inference:20% tests 5 0.00522 onet_tasks onet_tasks:60% wikipedia:20% inference:20% mechanical 5 0.00522 inference inference:60% onet_tasks:20% dwas:20% science 5 0.00522 wikipedia wikipedia:40% inference:40% onet_tasks:20% specifications 5 0.00522 onet_tasks onet_tasks:40% dwas:40% inference:20% detail 5 0.00522 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% inference:20% manufacturing 5 0.00522 inference inference:80% wikipedia:20% tools 4 0.00417 inference inference:50% onet_tasks:25% dwas:25% scientific 4 0.00417 inference inference:50% onet_tasks:25% dwas:25% precision 4 0.00417 inference inference:50% onet_tasks:25% dwas:25% inspect 4 0.00417 dwas dwas:75% onet_tasks:25% attention 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:50% inference:50% meeting 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% seek 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% goals 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% exhibit 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% circumstances 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% comfortable 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% control 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% emotions 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% effectively 4 0.00417 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100%