Instrument & Control Technician
What do Instrument & Control Technicians do?
Instrument and Control Technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing electrical instrumentation, machinery and control systems. Their role is vital for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of equipment and control and monitoring of processes within nuclear facilities.
Typical duties and responsibilities of an Instrument & Control Technician
- System Design: Collaborating with engineers and other technicians to design, install, upgrade or modify instrumentation and control systems as required.
- Commissioning: Installing, calibrating and commissioning electronic instrumentation and control systems; this may include control valves, sensors and transmitters or the programming and configuration control and logic systems that automate processes and performance monitoring.
- Verification: End-to-end examination, inspection and testing of control devices / instruments, verifying their accuracy, reliability and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Maintenance: Preventive maintenance activities to minimise downtime and prevent equipment failures.
- Problem Solving: Responding to alarms and emergencies, diagnosing and problem-solving issues rapidly.
Skills and knowledge required to be an Instrument & Control Technician
- EC&I Background: Familiarity with the principles of electronic control and instrumentation, combined with proficiency in interpreting wiring diagrams and technical drawings.
- Technical Knowledge: May include programming languages and human-machine interface systems.
- Attention to Detail: Precision in performing inspection, calibration and testing procedures.
- Critical Thinking: Objectively identify, diagnose, troubleshoot and resolve faults in electronic control systems and instrumentation.
- Collaboration: A team player who can work cooperatively and productively with colleagues, effectively communicating necessary technical information.
How do I become an Instrument & Control Technician?
There are a variety of different routes you can take into becoming a nuclear instrument and control technician:
University
You could pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering or Instrumentation and Control Engineering. This would provide valuable knowledge and skills and could be supported by a placement in industry.
Apprenticeship
Why not consider participating in an apprenticeship programme in electronic engineering? Whilst being paid, you could gain practical experience on-site and receive training in instrumentation and control technology from skilled and experienced mentor. Look out for apprenticeships offered by nuclear companies or engineering firms.
Working towards the role
You may prefer to enter the workforce directly. You could gain practical experience in control and instrumentation by working as a technician, maintenance engineer or electrician in industries such as power generation, manufacturing or process control. Seek out opportunities to learn more via on-the-job training or professional development courses.
