Instrument Technician

Job Description

Position Purpose: 

Under general supervision, installs, maintains, calibrates, troubleshoots, repairs, modifies, and overhauls instrumentation; controls, communication systems and computer and microprocessor systems associated with the Sewerage Conveyance/Collection System and with treatment plants processing of raw sewerage.

Also installs, maintains, calibrates, troubleshoots, repairs, and overhauls non-process equipment such as, but not limited to, safety, surveillance and security, and analytical instrumentation.

Work involves exposure to confined entry areas, hazardous gases, heights, weather, noise, dirt, dust, organic waste, and explosive environments.  Position also requires driving to various Field locations. Generally, works weekdays first shift hours.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Installs, maintains, calibrates, troubleshoots, repairs and overhauls the indicating, recording, telemetering and controlling instrumentation (electronic, mechanical, pneumatic) used to measure and control variables - i.e., pressure, flow, temperature, motion, force and chemical composition - associated with and including computer and microprocessor control systems and associated peripheral equipment.
• Implements and maintains a preventative maintenance schedule.
• Maintains inventory of spare parts and inventory records, including ordering parts and equipment as needed.
• Updates Operating and Maintenance documents, i.e., hard copy and software as necessary.
• Maintains maintenance and repair records on equipment and systems.
• Works on energized equipment pertaining to instrumentation.
• Troubleshoots and repairs printed circuit boards.
• Reads process, instrument, and ladder diagrams, and electronic and pneumatic schematics.
• Works independently or with outside engineers and vendors to install, startup, test new control systems, modify existing systems, and act as a resource for Control System Designs as required.
• Assists in “on-the-job” training of other personnel.
• Maintains fire alarm systems and surveillance and security equipment.
• Maintains and troubleshoots electronic and specialized equipment, such as self-contained breathing apparatus and gas monitors.
• Analyzes, troubleshoots, and maintains data communication systems.
• Interfaces with utilities as necessary, such as the phone company.
• Utilizes AutoCAD and engineering workstation, program and/or configure control systems logic and user interfaces and tune control loops on systems such as PLC’s.
• Utilizes test equipment such as Oscilloscope, multimeter, etc. for the maintenance of process instruments and control systems.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to outside weather conditions.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

• Associate Degree in Electronics Technology from an accredited technical college or demonstrated ability.
• One to three years of experience in the electronics technology field.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

• Knowledge and skills in the principles, practices, concepts and techniques used in advanced digital and analog electronics.
• Knowledge and skills in advanced mathematics such as geometry, advanced algebra, and Boolean algebra.
• Knowledge of computer/control systems including ability to apply digital logic.
• Ability and skills in soldering and desoldering without damaging materials.
• Ability and skill in reading schematics or process and instrumentation drawings.
• Ability and skills in diagnosing and repairing equipment problems.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective public and working relationships.
• Ability to wear self-contained breathing apparatus for confined entry.
• Ability to prepare accurate oral and written reports.
• Communicates effectively via written and oral methods with co-workers, supervisors, managers, and others when necessary.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

• Valid CA Driver’s license.

Physical Requirements:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
• The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and taste or smell.
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision.