Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado Career Overview
As an Industrial Controls Technician, you play a vital role in the manufacturing and production sectors, ensuring that machinery and systems operate efficiently and effectively. This position entails a variety of responsibilities that are essential to maintaining production quality and safety.
- You are responsible for the installation, programming, and maintenance of automation and control systems, which include programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and motor drives.
- Your work often involves troubleshooting electrical and electronic equipment, diagnosing issues, and implementing solutions that minimize downtime and enhance productivity.
- Collaboration with engineers and other technicians is common as you work on system upgrades and improvements, ensuring that hardware and software components are integrated seamlessly.
- You also ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations, which helps in promoting workplace safety and operational reliability.
- As machinery and production processes become more automated, your expertise in industrial controls becomes increasingly essential. You contribute not only to the functionality of equipment but also to the broader efforts of optimizing processes and reducing operational costs.
- The role often requires staying updated on the latest technologies and developments in automation, ensuring that your skills remain relevant and that you can implement advancements in the field effectively.
In summary, your position as an Industrial Controls Technician is integral to the efficiency and reliability of industrial operations, making you a key contributor to the success of the manufacturing landscape in Colorado and beyond.
Industrial Controls Technician Salary in Colorado
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado
To become an Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado, you will need to complete specific educational qualifications and training programs. The following college degree programs are relevant to this career path:
Automation Engineering Technology
This program focuses on the principles of automation and control systems, providing knowledge of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, and industrial networks.Electromechanical Engineering
This degree combines electrical and mechanical engineering concepts, preparing you to understand and work with automated systems and machinery.Industrial Electronics Technology
This program emphasizes the study of electronic systems used in industrial applications, including circuit design, troubleshooting, and control systems.Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology
This degree offers training in electrical systems and communication technologies, equipping you with the skills necessary for installation, maintenance, and repair of various control systems.Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology
This program focuses on the maintenance and operation of mechanical systems often employed in manufacturing and production settings, covering hydraulic and pneumatic systems, as well as safety protocols.
In addition to a degree, hands-on training through internships or cooperative education programs is often beneficial. Achieving certification from recognized industry organizations may also enhance your qualifications and career opportunities.
Best Schools to become a Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado 2024
Gadsden State Community College
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Owensboro Community and Technical College
MIAT College of Technology
- Repair, test, adjust, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.
Industrial Controls Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Colorado
Technical Proficiency: You must have a solid understanding of industrial control systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
Troubleshooting Skills: The ability to diagnose and resolve issues with control systems is essential. You should be skilled in analyzing problems, testing components, and systematically finding solutions.
Electrical Knowledge: A strong grasp of electrical circuits, wiring, and components is critical. Familiarity with schematics and wiring diagrams will help you effectively install, repair, and maintain control systems.
Software Competency: Proficiency in programming and configuring software related to industrial controls is necessary. This includes understanding various programming languages and tools specific to industrial automation.
Instrumentation Skills: You should be experienced in working with sensors and instruments used for measuring and controlling variables in industrial processes, such as temperature, pressure, and flow.
Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety practices and regulations in an industrial setting is vital. You should understand how to implement safety protocols to protect yourself and others while working with electrical and mechanical systems.
Attention to Detail: Precision is important in your work. You need to be meticulous when interpreting data, making adjustments, and documenting changes to ensure optimal functionality and compliance.
Problem-solving Ability: You will often face unexpected challenges. Consequently, having strong analytical and critical thinking skills will enable you to identify root causes and implement effective solutions quickly.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for collaborating with colleagues and conveying technical information clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to new technologies and methods is important in an ever-evolving field. Being open to continuous learning is essential to staying current with industry advancements.
Project Management: Skills in managing projects, including planning, executing, and monitoring tasks, will help you efficiently coordinate installation and maintenance activities in industrial settings.
Teamwork: Collaborative skills are crucial, as you will often work as part of a team that includes engineers, maintenance staff, and operators to ensure systems run smoothly.
Job Duties for Industrial Controls Technicians
Maintain equipment logs that record performance problems, repairs, calibrations, or tests.
Set up and test industrial equipment to ensure that it functions properly.
Test faulty equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test equipment or software, and applying knowledge of the functional operation of electronic units and systems.
Electronic mail software
- Email software
Facilities management software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Maintenance management software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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
Technical
- Repairing machines or systems using the right tools
- Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working
Job Market and Opportunities for Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado
The job market for Industrial Controls Technicians in Colorado is marked by a strong demand, driven by several key factors in various industries.
High Demand: The increasing complexity of industrial processes and the advancement of automation technology have created a strong demand for skilled technicians who can maintain and troubleshoot industrial control systems. This demand is evident across sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and food processing.
Growth Potential: The Industrial Controls Technician field is positioned for growth as businesses continue to invest in automation and smart technologies. Companies are focusing on enhancing operational efficiency, which often requires expertise in control systems.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Denver Metropolitan Area: As the economic hub of Colorado, Denver has a high concentration of manufacturing and technology companies, leading to numerous job openings for Industrial Controls Technicians.
- Colorado Springs: Known for its aerospace and defense industries, Colorado Springs presents opportunities for technicians specializing in high-tech control systems.
- Fort Collins: With a burgeoning renewable energy sector, Fort Collins offers roles for technicians focused on energy efficiency and sustainable technologies.
- Loveland and Greeley: These areas are rapidly growing due to manufacturing expansions, particularly in the food and beverage sector, which is seeking skilled technicians for automation technologies.
Emphasizing sustainability and technological advancements will continue to shape the job market, creating a variety of opportunities for those in the field.
Top Related Careers to Industrial Controls Technician 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
- Website: nicet.org
- Description: Offers certification programs that can enhance your qualifications as an Industrial Controls Technician.
The International Society of Automation (ISA)
- Website: isa.org
- Description: A professional association that provides resources including training, certifications, and networking opportunities in the automation field.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- Website: ieee.org
- Description: Offers a variety of resources, including journals, conferences, and networking for those in the electrical and electronics sector.
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
- Website: asq.org
- Description: Provides quality-related resources, certifications, and training that may benefit those working in industrial controls and automation.
Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
- Website: cdle.colorado.gov
- Description: Provides information on workforce development, training programs, and job opportunities specific to Colorado.
Alison Online Education
- Website: alison.com
- Description: Offers free online courses in various topics including industrial automation and control systems.
Coursera
- Website: coursera.org
- Description: Features online courses from universities and organizations on topics relevant to automation and industrial controls.
National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc)
- Website: careertech.org
- Description: Provides information about career and technical education resources and programs that can be beneficial for aspiring Industrial Controls Technicians.
LinkedIn Learning
- Website: linkedin.com/learning
- Description: Offers a wide range of courses covering skills relevant to industrial controls, including PLC programming and automation systems.
IndustryWeek
- Website: industryweek.com
- Description: A source of news and trends in the manufacturing and industrial sectors, which can be helpful for staying updated on industry standards and technologies.
Plant Engineering Magazine
- Website: plantengineering.com
- Description: Provides technical articles, case studies, and product reviews related to plant management and industrial controls.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Industrial Engineering Technicians
- Website: bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/industrial-engineering-technicians.htm
- Description: Offers labor market information, job outlook, and salary data relevant to industrial controls technicians.
These resources will provide you with valuable information, educational opportunities, and industry connections as you advance your career as an Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Industrial Controls Technician in Colorado
What is an Industrial Controls Technician?
An Industrial Controls Technician is responsible for troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing control systems and instrumentation used in manufacturing processes. This includes PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and other automation equipment.What qualifications do I need to become an Industrial Controls Technician?
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in industrial technology, electrical engineering, or automation. Many employers prefer candidates with an associate degree or relevant certifications, such as from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).What skills are essential for success in this career?
Key skills include:- Proficiency in electrical and pneumatic systems.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Ability to read blueprints and technical diagrams.
- Familiarity with programming languages used in PLCs.
- Good communication skills for collaborating with team members and other departments.
What industries employ Industrial Controls Technicians in Colorado?
Industrial Controls Technicians are employed across various sectors, including:- Manufacturing
- Aerospace
- Energy and utilities
- Food and beverage processing
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology
What is the job outlook for Industrial Controls Technicians in Colorado?
The job outlook is positive, with a growing demand for skilled technicians in automation and control systems. The rise of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies is driving this demand, making it a promising career choice.What is the typical salary for an Industrial Controls Technician?
Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location. In Colorado, the average salary ranges from $55,000 to $85,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings based on specialization and experience.Are there opportunities for advancement in this field?
Yes, there are numerous opportunities for advancement. With additional experience and education, you can move into senior technician roles, engineering positions, or management roles in operations and maintenance.What are the working conditions like for Industrial Controls Technicians?
Technicians often work in industrial or manufacturing settings, which may involve exposure to machinery and various environmental conditions. The job can require standing for long periods, working in confined spaces, and handling heavy equipment.Do Industrial Controls Technicians need to be on-call?
Many technicians are required to be on-call for emergency repairs, especially in industries where downtime can lead to significant production losses. This can vary by employer and specific job role.How can I stay updated on industry trends and technologies?
To stay informed, consider attending industry conferences, participating in training programs, joining professional organizations, and subscribing to industry publications. Networking with other professionals can also provide insights into emerging trends and best practices.