What Does a Controls Technician Do?
A Controls Technician is like the 'magician' of the Construction industry. You'll work in the exciting world of Mechanical Trades, where your main role is to keep things moving smoothly. You'll work with complex systems that control the heating, cooling, and ventilation in buildings. Like the conductor of an orchestra, you'll make sure everything works in harmony.
Your 'stage' will mostly be large commercial or industrial buildings. Wearing your safety gear, you might be on a construction site one day, seeing a skyscraper rising from scratch or at a running facility the next day, making sure everything works fine.
Your main responsibilities include installing control systems, troubleshooting issues, and performing regular maintenance. You'll read and understand technical diagrams, program control systems, and document any repairs you do. A big part of your job is problem-solving, so expect different challenges each day!
In essence, as a Controls Technician, you'll be the invisible hand making our built environment warm, cool, and breathable. Is this the exciting, hands-on career you've been dreaming of?
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Understanding of Mechanical Systems
- Electrical Schematic Reading
- Controls System Programming
- Troubleshooting Mechanical Systems
- Safety Protocols
Soft Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Time Management
Technical Skills
- Understanding of Mechanical Systems
- Electrical Schematic Reading
- Controls System Programming
- Troubleshooting Mechanical Systems
- Safety Protocols
Soft Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Time Management
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma: Completion of high school education or obtain a GED equivalent. Coursework in mathematics, physics and technical education would be beneficial.
- Postsecondary Training: Completion of a technical or vocational school program in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) would provide a solid base of knowledge. These programs often include courses on electronics, controls, and control systems.
- Apprenticeship Program: Enroll in an apprenticeship program that provides on-the-job training including experience with electrical and electronic controls and systems.
- Journeyman Licensing: After working a required number of hours, take the examination to earn a journeyman license. This license is generally required to work without direct supervision.
- Specialized Training: Take courses or receive training in building automation systems, networking, and computer programming. This training will enable technicians to understand and work with complex control systems.
- Certification: Obtain certification through a professional organization such as the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES). These certifications demonstrate a higher level of competency and may lead to increased job opportunities.
- High School Diploma: Completion of high school education or obtain a GED equivalent. Coursework in mathematics, physics and technical education would be beneficial.
- Postsecondary Training: Completion of a technical or vocational school program in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) would provide a solid base of knowledge. These programs often include courses on electronics, controls, and control systems.
- Apprenticeship Program: Enroll in an apprenticeship program that provides on-the-job training including experience with electrical and electronic controls and systems.
- Journeyman Licensing: After working a required number of hours, take the examination to earn a journeyman license. This license is generally required to work without direct supervision.
- Specialized Training: Take courses or receive training in building automation systems, networking, and computer programming. This training will enable technicians to understand and work with complex control systems.
- Certification: Obtain certification through a professional organization such as the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES). These certifications demonstrate a higher level of competency and may lead to increased job opportunities.
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Certification may be required depending on state and employer