Hydraulic technicians service
and repair hydraulic and peneumatic machinery.
Hydraulic technicians, also called pneumatic or fluid power technicians, operate and repair equipment that use oil and water, pressurized gases or air as a power system. Hydraulic machine repair and maintenance jobs range from servicing supermarket doors to automobile power brakes and aircraft wing flaps. Jobs are available worldwide and recruiters seek experienced technicians for overseas work. Little education is required, but training is extensive.
Duties
Hydraulic technicians use measuring devices, calculators and myriad hand tools to service light and heavy equipment. The job requires serving clients at various plants, machine shops, factories and commercial businesses to perform maintenance and repair equipment. Technicians may work at a single company and work at one plant or factory. Hydraulic technicians service and build subsea equipment if employed by an offshore drilling company. Operators must assemble and install control systems for Remotely Operated Vehicles, and then mobilize the ROV system for use on the sea bed. Technicians must provide technical support once the assembly of the equipment is complete.
Education
A hydraulic technician does not require a university degree, but a high school diploma is a requirement. Employers may seek formal postsecondary school training in mechanics or industrial technology. Many employers provide on-the-job training. Training may take up to two years to complete. A Fluid Power Society certificate is available, but not necessarily required.
Requirements
Technicians must possess mechanical ability, have a deep interest in machinery and have the dexterity to work efficiently and competently. Math and science skills are critical. Knowledge of computers is a requirement. Reading and writing skills are essential to write reports and interpret graphs and drawings. The technology of hydraulic and pneumatic equipment is constantly evolving and continuing education is critical to success on the job.
Work Environment
Factories and industrial plants have an estimated 75 percent of all pneumatic and hydraulic equipment. The job is performed in engine rooms that can be dirty, although many plants keep their machinery clean and well maintained in lighted areas. Outside plant and factory venues, the job can entail traveling from one commercial business to another to perform repairs and maintenance. Work places range from supermarkets to auto repair shops. Work also may take place outdoors at airports to repair hydraulic equipment on planes, or at rail yards to repair trains. Workers may face exposure to burns, cuts and electrical shocks, although the job is not considered especially dangerous. Technicians work a 40-hour workweek, with overtime offered.
Earnings
Auto/truck shops pay hydraulic technicians between $33,000 and $42,000 per year, according to 2009 and 2010 job postings. Experienced mobile hydraulic technicians can earn up to $52,000 annually as of 2010. Benefits include retirement, health insurance and paid vacation.
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