Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers
Precision instruments and equipment include items such as watches, cameras, medical equipment, or musical instruments. Individuals who repair these instruments are referred to as precision instrument and equipment repairers. Precision and attention to detail are extremely important in this line of work due to many small parts and mechanisms.
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Career Opportunities
Camera and photographic equipment repairers specialize in camera repair. When a customer presents a broken camera or equipment to the repairer, he must first determine if it is worthwhile to fix it. Many inexpensive products would cost more than the item to repair. Should repair be an option, complicated repairs are referred to the manufacturer. If the job can be done in the shop, diagnosis requires disassembling the equipment to find the trouble spot. Parts are then replaced or repaired. Many camera repairers must build new parts for older equipment that is not manufactured any longer. Watch and clock repairers usually focus their work on expensive or antique timepieces. Modern pieces are often cheaper to replace than repair. In addition, a simple battery replacement is all that is needed. Older or expensive pieces use mechanical movements. Therefore, repair is very detailed. Repairers must use hand tools to remove gears or other components. Replacements are made if necessary. The exterior of watches and clocks are also polished. Musical instrument repairers and tuners are responsible for repairing and tuning musical instruments. They usually specialize in one of four areas: band instruments, pianos and organs, violins, and guitars. These technicians work to repair any damage to the instruments, such as dents or scratches. In addition, they repair or replace damaged parts, including strings, keys, rod pins, or drumheads. Medical equipment repairers are often referred to as biomedical equipment technicians. They repair and maintain x-ray machines, defibrillators, heart monitors, electric wheelchairs, and other machines.
Necessary Qualifications
Precision instrument and equipment repairers are required to have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Further educational requirements are dependent upon the field. Those working with cameras or photographic equipment are often required to have an associate’s degree with a background in electronics. An associate’s degree is also recommended for those entering the musical instrument or medical equipment fields. All areas entail on-the-job training. Most training programs begin with three to six months of working with a senior technician. This is followed by six months of supervised work. Certification is available in most fields. A passing score on an exam and hours of experience are typically required. Individuals should have strong electronics, science, and technology knowledge. Those working in the musical field should have a musical background.
Earnings and Advancement
Precision instrument and equipment repairers begin work with on-the-job training. Close supervision is typical for the first year. Advancement beyond this will require a bachelor’s degree. Earnings fall between $7.00 and $30.00 per hour. Most work normal daytime hours. Piano and organ tuners/repairers will be required to travel to complete work.
*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers.
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copyright 2005
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