Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina Career Overview

As a Regulating Equipment Technician, you play a vital role in ensuring that various systems and devices operate efficiently and safely. Your responsibilities encompass:

  • Installation and Maintenance: You are responsible for setting up, calibrating, and maintaining regulating equipment that controls processes such as pressure, flow, and temperature in various industries.

  • Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: You diagnose equipment malfunctions and implement appropriate repairs to minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation.

  • Compliance and Safety: You ensure that regulating equipment meets industry standards and regulations, contributing to workplace safety and environmental protection.

  • Collaboration: Working closely with engineers, operators, and other technicians, you coordinate efforts to optimize system performance and resolve technical issues.

  • Documentation: You maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, and equipment specifications, which are crucial for effective communication and regulatory compliance.

Your expertise is essential in industries like manufacturing, energy, and water treatment, where precise control of equipment is necessary to maintain quality and efficiency. The role of a Regulating Equipment Technician is integral to the overall functionality and reliability of production systems, highlighting the importance of your contributions to the operational success of your workplace.

Regulating Equipment Technician Salary in South Carolina

Annual Median: $63,870
Hourly Median: $30.71

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina

To become a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina, you will need to complete specific educational qualifications and training programs. The following college degree programs are suited to embark on a career in this field:

  • Automation Engineering Technology: This program focuses on the design and development of automated systems. You will gain knowledge in computer programming, control systems, and robotics, which are essential for working with regulating equipment.

  • Heavy Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technology: This degree emphasizes the maintenance and repair of heavy machinery. You will learn about hydraulic systems, mechanical maintenance, and troubleshooting techniques that are vital for ensuring efficient operation of regulating equipment.

  • Instrumentation Technology: A degree in this field covers the installation, calibration, and maintenance of instruments used to measure and control industrial processes. This knowledge is directly applicable to managing regulating equipment effectively.

  • Industrial Technology: This program provides a broad understanding of industrial processes and technologies. It includes coursework in systems management, production processes, and quality control, which will enhance your competency as a regulating equipment technician.

  • Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology: This degree focuses on electrical systems, electronics, and communication technologies. Understanding these areas is important for working with the electronic components of regulating equipment.

Obtaining any of these degrees will prepare you for a successful career as a Regulating Equipment Technician by providing you with the necessary technical foundation and knowledge.

Best Schools to become a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina 2024

Olympic College

Bremerton, WA

In-State Tuition:$4,197
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,465
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:4,905

Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College

Minden, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,214
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,214
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:970

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN

In-State Tuition:$4,487
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,777
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:89,705

SOWELA Technical Community College

Lake Charles, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:40%
Total Enrollment:3,268

Lone Star College System

The Woodlands, TX

In-State Tuition:$5,136
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,456
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:68,415

Lee College

Baytown, TX

In-State Tuition:$3,132
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:40%
Total Enrollment:7,807
Regulating Equipment Technician Job Description:
  • Install, repair, and maintain mechanical regulating and controlling devices, such as electric meters, gas regulators, thermostats, safety and flow valves, and other mechanical governors.

Regulating Equipment Technician Required Skills and Competencies in South Carolina

  • Technical Proficiency: You must possess a strong understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, along with the relevant tools and technologies used in regulating equipment.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to analyze issues effectively and develop efficient solutions is essential. You should be capable of troubleshooting equipment malfunctions and implementing corrective measures promptly.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in this role. You need to meticulously monitor and adjust settings on regulating equipment to ensure optimal functionality and compliance with industry standards.

  • Communication Skills: You will often collaborate with other technicians and engineers, so clear and concise communication is necessary for discussing technical issues and operational procedures.

  • Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations is vital. You should be able to evaluate risks and ensure that all work processes are performed safely.

  • Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities enhance your capacity to interpret data from equipment tests and measurements, allowing you to make informed decisions regarding repairs and maintenance.

  • Manual Dexterity: You will be required to handle tools and equipment with precision. Good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills are important for performing tasks safely and effectively.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new technologies and methods is important in a rapidly evolving field. Being open to learning and applying new skills will enhance your effectiveness.

  • Time Management: Efficiently managing your time will help you complete tasks within deadlines while maintaining quality in your work.

  • Customer Service Orientation: When interacting with clients or stakeholders, demonstrating a customer-focused approach ensures that their needs and expectations are met.

Job Duties for Regulating Equipment Technicians

  • Disassemble and repair mechanical control devices or valves, such as regulators, thermostats, or hydrants, using power tools, hand tools, and cutting torches.

  • Lubricate wearing surfaces of mechanical parts, using oils or other lubricants.

  • Record maintenance information, including test results, material usage, and repairs made.

Technologies and Skills Used by Regulating Equipment Technicians

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  • IBM Maximo Asset Management
  • SAP software

Industrial control software

  • Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
  • Wonderware software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina

The job market for Regulating Equipment Technicians in South Carolina is characterized by a steady demand for skilled professionals who specialize in maintaining, repairing, and calibrating various types of regulating equipment.

  • Demand: There is a consistent need for Regulating Equipment Technicians across multiple industries, including manufacturing, utilities, and healthcare. As industries increasingly rely on automated and regulated systems, the demand for technicians who can ensure these systems function effectively continues to rise.

  • Growth Potential: The role of a Regulating Equipment Technician is expected to grow as businesses expand their operations and adopt new technologies. The increasing focus on energy efficiency and regulatory compliance provides additional reasons for employers to seek out qualified technicians. Furthermore, as existing technicians retire or shift into different roles, opportunities will open up for new entrants into the field.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Charleston: This city has a robust industrial base, with numerous manufacturing facilities and a focus on renewable energy, leading to higher demand for regulation and control systems.
    • Greenville-Spartanburg: With a growing number of manufacturing companies, particularly in the automotive and aerospace sectors, this area also presents numerous job opportunities.
    • Columbia: As the state capital, Columbia is home to various governmental and utility services that require regulating equipment maintenance, creating local job openings.
    • Florence and Myrtle Beach: These regions are witnessing growth, especially in utilities and emerging technologies, contributing further to the demand for Regulating Equipment Technicians.

Consider exploring these regions for job opportunities, as they offer favorable environments for career advancement within the field.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina

  • National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
    NICET provides certification programs for engineering technicians. Relevant certification for regulating equipment technicians can greatly enhance your credentials.
    Website: www.nicet.org

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
    OSHA offers guidelines and regulations that are essential for ensuring safety in the workplace, particularly for those dealing with industrial equipment.
    Website: www.osha.gov

  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
    IEEE is a leading organization for the electrical and electronics engineering community. You can find resources, publications, and networking opportunities relevant to your role.
    Website: www.ieee.org

  • The Engineering Society of South Carolina (ESSC)
    ESSC is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the engineering profession in South Carolina. Membership offers access to resources, networking, and professional development.
    Website: www.essc.org

  • South Carolina Technical College System
    Explore technical colleges in South Carolina that offer courses and programs related to electronic and electrical technology, which can be beneficial for your career advancement.
    Website: www.sctechsystem.edu

  • American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
    ASHRAE provides resources related to HVAC systems, which often involve regulating equipment. Membership includes access to industry standards, publications, and training.
    Website: www.ashrae.org

  • National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
    NECA supports the electrical contracting industry, provides educational resources, and advocates for industry standards. Their training programs can be useful for furthering your expertise.
    Website: www.necanet.org

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
    The BLS offers information on job outlook, wages, and working conditions for technicians in various fields, including regulating equipment.
    Website: www.bls.gov/ooh

  • Professional Certification Programs
    Look into various professional certification resources, such as those offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), for advanced skills in automation and control systems.
    Website: www.isa.org

Utilizing these resources will support your career development as a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina

  • What is a Regulating Equipment Technician?
    A Regulating Equipment Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing equipment that regulates and controls processes, such as valves, pressure regulators, and metering devices, primarily in industries like natural gas and water supply.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina?
    Typically, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with specialized training or an apprenticeship in relevant fields such as mechanical systems or electrical engineering. Certification from organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) can enhance job prospects.

  • What are the primary duties of a Regulating Equipment Technician?
    Your main duties may include:

    • Installing and repairing regulating and control equipment
    • Performing routine inspections and maintenance
    • Troubleshooting and diagnosing equipment malfunctions
    • Collaborating with engineers to optimize system performance
    • Keeping detailed records of maintenance and repairs
  • What skills are important for a Regulating Equipment Technician?
    Key skills include:

    • Mechanical aptitude
    • Problem-solving skills
    • Attention to detail
    • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics
    • Strong communication skills for interacting with team members and clients
  • Is certification important for this career?
    While not always required, obtaining certification can significantly improve your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise. Employers may prefer candidates with certifications from recognized bodies in the field.

  • What is the job outlook for Regulating Equipment Technicians in South Carolina?
    The job outlook is generally positive, as skilled technicians are essential for maintaining infrastructure in growing industries, such as natural gas and water management. The demand is expected to remain steady due to ongoing maintenance needs and system upgrades.

  • What is the average salary for a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. However, the average annual salary for a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina typically ranges from $40,000 to $65,000.

  • What are typical working conditions for this role?
    You may work in a variety of settings, including industrial plants, energy facilities, and municipal water departments. The work can be physically demanding and may require working outdoors in various weather conditions, as well as being on call for emergencies.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With experience and additional training, you could advance to supervisory roles or specialize in areas such as instrumentation or control systems engineering.

  • How can I find job openings as a Regulating Equipment Technician in South Carolina?
    You can find job openings on various platforms, including:

    • Online job boards like Indeed or Monster
    • Company websites in industries related to natural gas and water supply
    • Networking through trade schools and professional organizations
    • Local unions or associations for technicians in the field