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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Induction Technician

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Skilled TradesManufacturingTechnicianEngineering

🎯 Role Definition

An Induction Technician is a specialized, hands-on expert responsible for the operational integrity of critical induction heating equipment. This role is the backbone of many advanced manufacturing and heat-treating processes, ensuring that machinery runs efficiently, safely, and to precise specifications. You'll be the go-to technical authority for installing, diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining a range of sophisticated systems, including power supplies, control panels, cooling systems, and induction coils. Success in this position means minimizing downtime, maximizing equipment performance, and directly contributing to the quality and output of the production floor. This is a role for a natural problem-solver who thrives on technical challenges and takes pride in their mechanical and electrical expertise.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Industrial Electrician
  • Electronics Technician
  • Maintenance Technician (Manufacturing)
  • Recent Graduate of a Technical/Trade School

Advancement To:

  • Senior or Lead Induction Technician
  • Field Service Engineer
  • Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
  • Controls or Automation Engineer

Lateral Moves:

  • Automation Technician
  • PLC Programmer
  • Quality Assurance Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform complex on-site installation, commissioning, and validation of new and refurbished induction heating systems, ensuring all components function according to engineering specifications.
  • Execute comprehensive preventive and predictive maintenance schedules on induction equipment, including power supplies, water cooling systems, and mechanical fixtures to prevent unplanned downtime.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot complex system malfunctions across electrical, electronic, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic components to identify the root cause of failures with precision.
  • Interpret and work from complex technical documents, including electrical schematics, mechanical blueprints, and process and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
  • Calibrate, tune, and test induction heating systems and coils to ensure they operate at peak efficiency and meet stringent process parameters for production.
  • Safely work with and troubleshoot high-voltage and high-frequency solid-state power supplies, SCRs, and associated control circuitry.
  • Perform intricate mechanical assembly, disassembly, and alignment of induction heating stations, fixtures, and automated handling equipment.
  • Conduct rigorous testing and functional checks on equipment following repairs or maintenance to verify system integrity and performance before returning it to production.
  • Meticulously document all maintenance activities, repairs, and parts usage in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for historical tracking and analysis.
  • Provide clear and effective training to machine operators and junior maintenance staff on the proper operation, setup, and basic upkeep of induction equipment.
  • Manage and maintain an organized inventory of critical spare parts, identifying reorder points and sourcing components to ensure availability for repairs.
  • Strictly adhere to all plant safety regulations and procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), arc flash, and other electrical safety protocols.
  • Act as a primary technical resource for the production team, providing real-time support and troubleshooting assistance to resolve equipment-related process issues.
  • Analyze equipment performance data and maintenance history to identify recurring problems, failure trends, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
  • Communicate effectively with equipment manufacturers, vendors, and internal engineering teams to obtain technical support, order parts, and collaborate on system upgrades.
  • Perform induction coil maintenance, including inspection for damage, minor repairs, and tuning to match the load and power supply for optimal energy transfer.
  • Set up and prove out new or modified induction brazing, hardening, or forging processes, working alongside process engineers to achieve desired metallurgical results.
  • Conduct regular maintenance and water quality testing of closed-loop and open-loop water cooling systems, which are critical for protecting high-power electronic components.
  • Respond promptly and efficiently to emergency breakdown calls during and outside of normal shifts to get critical production equipment back online as quickly as possible.
  • Use a wide array of diagnostic tools, including digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, meggers, thermal imaging cameras, and flow meters to accurately diagnose faults.
  • Participate actively in continuous improvement (Kaizen) events and root cause analysis (RCA) projects aimed at enhancing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).

Secondary Functions

  • Support engineering and R&D projects by providing hands-on technical assistance and practical input on new equipment designs or process developments.
  • Contribute to the development, review, and refinement of Standard Maintenance Procedures (SMPs) and safety protocols for all induction-related tasks.
  • Collaborate with the quality assurance department to investigate and resolve any product non-conformances that may be linked to equipment performance.
  • Participate in team meetings and shift hand-offs, providing clear, concise updates on equipment status, ongoing repairs, and potential issues.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Schematic Interpretation: Advanced proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical, electronic, and mechanical schematics and blueprints.
  • Electrical & Electronics Troubleshooting: Deep understanding of AC/DC theory, solid-state electronics, power supplies (inverters/converters), and PLCs.
  • Induction Heating Principles: Strong working knowledge of induction theory, including coil design, frequency, power, and quench systems.
  • Diagnostic Tool Proficiency: Hands-on skill with multimeters, oscilloscopes, clamp-on ammeters, meggers, and thermal imagers.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Proven ability in mechanical assembly, precision alignment, and troubleshooting of hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
  • PLC Troubleshooting: Ability to connect to a PLC, troubleshoot ladder logic, and diagnose I/O issues (Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
  • CMMS Software: Experience using a Computerized Maintenance Management System for work order management and documentation.
  • Safety Protocols: In-depth knowledge and strict application of LOTO, arc flash, and other industrial safety standards.
  • Computer Literacy: Proficient with Microsoft Office for reporting and communication.

Soft Skills

  • Analytical Problem-Solving: A systematic and logical approach to diagnosing complex, multi-faceted problems under pressure.
  • Self-Direction: The ability to work independently, manage priorities, and make informed decisions with minimal supervision.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous and thorough work ethic, ensuring repairs are done correctly the first time.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with operators, engineers, and management.
  • Teamwork: A collaborative mindset and willingness to share knowledge and support team members.
  • Adaptability: The flexibility to handle changing priorities, emergency breakdowns, and evolving technology.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Electronics Technology, Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
  • OR a High School Diploma/GED combined with a certificate from an accredited technical school and significant relevant experience.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology (BSEET).

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electronics Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance Technology
  • Mechatronics
  • Electrical Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of hands-on maintenance and troubleshooting experience in a manufacturing environment.

Preferred: Direct experience working on high-frequency induction heating equipment from manufacturers such as Inductoheat, Pillar, Ajax Tocco, or EFD Induction. Experience in a heat-treating, forging, or automotive manufacturing environment is highly valued.

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