Calibration Technologists and Technicians

Execute or adapt procedures and techniques for calibrating measurement devices, by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics, sometimes under the direction of engineering staff. Determine measurement standard suitability for calibrating measurement devices. May perform preventive maintenance on equipment. May perform corrective actions to address identified calibration problems.

The occupation "Calibration Technologists and Technicians" has a base automation risk of 50.0%, indicating that while automation could potentially replace half of the job’s functions, a significant portion still requires human oversight and specialist skills. A central reason for this moderate risk level is that the role blends tasks easily performed by machines with those that heavily depend on human expertise and judgement. While advancements in robotics, image analysis, and data processing technologies have made it feasible to automate many standardized calibration processes, other tasks remain deeply reliant on nuanced decision-making and critical thinking that current AI and automation struggle to replicate. The top three most automatable tasks for this occupation demonstrate where technology could have the most impact. "Visually inspect equipment to detect surface defects" can increasingly be handled by machine vision systems capable of identifying flaws with high accuracy and speed. Similarly, "Analyze test data to identify defects or determine calibration requirements" is well-suited for algorithms that can process and detect anomalies in large datasets far more quickly than humans. Even attending "conferences, workshops, or other training sessions to learn about new tools or methods" is susceptible to automation, as self-paced digital learning and AI-powered training platforms can often substitute for traditional forms of professional development. Conversely, tasks most resistant to automation reflect the necessity for human interpretation, adaptability, and communication. "Write and submit reports about the results of calibration tests" requires the ability to contextualize findings for specific audiences, a skill that artificial intelligence still struggles with due to variances in report requirements and the need for critical assessment. "Verify part dimensions or clearances using precision measuring instruments to ensure conformance to specifications" demands hands-on manipulation and real-time judgement, especially when tolerances are critical. "Read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, or technical orders" relies on understanding complex documentation and applying it in context, a task where bottleneck skills such as Analytical Thinking (Level 4), Attention to Detail (Level 5), and Technical Communication (Level 4) are critical and present significant roadblocks for full automation. Hence, while half the occupation is automatable, the presence of these advanced skills keeps the automation risk from being higher.