what is an electromechanic?

As an electromechanic, you combine your knowledge of electrical and electronic systems with mechanical technology to operate electromechanical equipment. Your job is to operate and maintain industrial equipment and ensure efficiency during manufacturing. You read blueprints, diagrams and schematics to assemble machines and equipment. During the assembly process, you verify the dimensions of the parts and check for surface defects.

Other duties include training factory workers on how to operate electromechanical equipment. You use instruments to test the performance of equipment and calibrate hydraulics to ensure efficiency during manufacturing. Since you handle scheduled maintenance, you document the tests, maintenance or repairs done on industrial equipment.

As an electromechanic, you require detail-oriented skills to keep precise and accurate measurements when verifying the dimensions of the parts. Attentiveness to detail is also useful for testing and diagnosing faults in electromechanical equipment. You require manual dexterity since you use hand tools and soldering irons to create electronic components by hand. You also require interpersonal skills to work as a team and take instructions or offer advice when needed. Mechanical skills help you apply your knowledge of industrial machinery or equipment to operate machinery. You also need maths skills to perform the necessary calculations for designing and troubleshooting equipment.

Would working as an electromechanic suit your interest in mechanical and electrical systems? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an electromechanic role.

electromechanic jobs
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average electromechanic salary

According to Job Bank, the average salary of an electromechanic in Canada is $60,743 per year. You receive an hourly rate of $31.15. Entry-level positions attract lower salaries due to the minimal duties involved in the role. For instance, you start with a salary of $54,600 per year and as you move to senior positions, your salary increases to over $75,709 per year.

what factors influence the earnings of an electromechanic?

As an electromechanic, your take-home salary depends on various factors. The main determinants are your qualifications and work experience. When you have minimal work experience, you start with a lower salary, but your earnings gradually increase as you improve your work experience and gain expertise. Having the necessary trade certifications for your role also improves your earning prospects.

The size of the company also influences your earnings. Big manufacturing companies have a lot of industrial equipment, which means you handle complex duties during the installation and maintenance of the equipment. Small companies with little electromechanical equipment pay lower salaries due to fewer duties and less complex roles.

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types of electromechanics

Some of the areas of specialization for electromechanics include:

  • industrial automation technicians: these are electromechanical professionals who specialize in automated industry equipment. As an industrial automation technician, you ensure processing lines run smoothly. Your job involves troubleshooting, maintaining and repairing automated systems.
  • biomedical electromechanic: if you have a specific interest in the medical field, you can specialize in biomedical equipment. Your job is to ensure that the medical equipment used in clinics and hospitals is in good working condition. You perform routine maintenance to avoid errors during operations or medical examinations. The role demands knowledge about electromechanical systems combined with medical and patient safety expertise.
woman operating a machine in an industrial environment
woman operating a machine in an industrial environment
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working as an electromechanic

Are you interested in becoming an electromechanic? Let’s explore the specific duties, responsibilities and tasks associated with the role.

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electromechanic skills and education

Some of the educational requirements of becoming an electromechanic in Canada include:

competencies and characteristics of electromechanics

Some of the qualities of an electromechanic include:

  • communication skills: when working alongside various engineers as an electromechanic, communication skills help you convey your ideas clearly. Written communication is also vital since you prepare reports on the maintenance work and tests you conduct on the equipment. You also document design problems and recommend upgrades to engineers.
  • problem-solving skills: as an electromechanic, you deal with numerous problems during installation and maintenance. Your diagnostics skills help you identify and troubleshoot issues that arise before they escalate. Problem-solving ability is also handy for solving the issues that arise in engineering designs and prototypes.
  • mechanical and math skills: as an electromechanic, you rely on your math skills to analyze, design and troubleshoot issues in the design. Since you create components for equipment and industrial machinery, mechanical skills help you understand how the components work. You also require expertise in operating engine lathes, grinders and drills.
  • manual dexterity: as an electromechanic, you need good manual dexterity and hand-to-eye coordination. You use hand tools to create small parts for industrial machinery or equipment. When you have good hand dexterity, you can minimize accidents.
  • logical thinking ability: when you perform your duties, you follow a specific sequence. Logical thinking helps you follow the engineer's designs and specifications during installation or testing.
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FAQs

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of an electromechanic.

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meet a recruiter

Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.

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