Industrial Automation Careers Overview

What is a recommended qualification for someone pursuing a career in engineering?

Which skill is NOT typically required for testing and verifying systems?

What is the minimum work experience required for licensing as a Professional Engineer?

Which course is likely part of a mechanical or electrical engineering program?

What is the role of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying?

Which of the following is NOT a common job function for operators in industrial automation?

What is a required skill for maintainers in industrial automation?

Which of the following educational paths is associated with becoming a maintainer?

Which job role involves designing new systems and programming them?

What type of educational training is NOT typically provided for operators?

Which of these skills is essential for an operator to successfully perform their job?

Preventive maintenance in industrial automation primarily aims to:

What is an important qualification for an operator besides a high school diploma?

Operators

Responsible for staging materials for assembly lines and controlling machine operations.
Maintain production statistics and monitor equipment functionality.
Essential skills include basic math, attention to detail, effective communication, physical stamina, and the ability to follow detailed procedures.
A high school diploma is typically required, often supplemented by technical training through on-the-job shadowing and company-sponsored training programs.

Maintainers

Key tasks involve inspecting equipment, performing preventive maintenance, calibrating components, troubleshooting issues, and repairing defective parts.
Skills necessary for this role include the ability to prevent problems through maintenance, diagnose issues, interpret schematics, and repair system components.
Career pathways often involve completing apprenticeship programs and obtaining technical education from community colleges, technical institutes, vocational-technical schools, and industrial automation manufacturers.

Engineers

Focus on designing new systems, programming for functionality, implementing updates, and testing for verification.
Advanced skills required encompass mechanical and electrical aptitude, mathematical proficiency, problem-solving, analytical thinking, creativity, and programming skills.
Typically hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering, covering subjects such as robotics, statistics, fluid dynamics, and power generation.
Licensing as a Professional Engineer is recommended, varying by state, requiring a degree, Engineering exam completion, and supervised work experience.

Summary

Automation careers encompass roles with distinct functions focused on operations, maintenance, and engineering.
Different career areas require specific skills and competencies pertaining to job functions.
Advancement often necessitates relevant degrees and certifications to enhance skills and career prospects.

Explore the various career opportunities in industrial automation, focusing on the role of operators. This quiz will cover common job functions and essential skills required to succeed in this field.