3359 - Instrument Mechanic

Federal Occupation Description

Federal Occupation Description

This standard is for grading nonsupervisory jobs involved in installing, aligning, modifying, troubleshooting, repairing, overhauling, testing, and calibrating a variety of instruments containing electric, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and/or electronic components, assemblies, and controls. The work includes using both manual and automated test equipment such as pneumatic, hydraulic, or vacuum test stands or computer controlled electronic test consoles to test, align, and calibrate instruments. The work also includes maintaining, repairing, and calibrating precision instruments and standards such as dial indicators, concentricity gauges, sine bars, micrometers, and plug and ring gauges. The work requires knowledge and application of electrical and mechanical principles; knowledge of pneumatic and/or hydraulic mechanisms; and, in some work situations, knowledge of electronic principles and theory.

For job opportunities in this series, go to the Office of Personnel Management USAJOBS website.

Other Federal Occupations

It is not uncommon for individuals in one federal occupational series to perform duties related to another series within the same federal occupational group. To find out about the certifications for another series in the INSTRUMENT WORK FAMILY, click on that series below. Note that credentials have not yet been identified for all series – links are provided only to those series for which the identification of credentials has been completed. Additional series will be added over time.

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This is an official U.S. Navy websiteUpdated: October 16, 2019
Click here to go to Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) certification is an entry-level credential for electronics technicians who have less than two years of experience or who have trade school training in the field of electronics. Applicants for the CETa must meet the experience or training requirement and pass the exam.

Click here to go to Telecommunications Electronics Technician (TCM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Telecommunications Electronics Technician (TCM) is an intermediate-level technician credential for professionals who work in the telecommunications field. TCM candidates must have knowledge of wired and wireless communications basic concepts, which are then applicable to various types of voice, data and video systems. Telecommunications Electronics Technicians must be knowledgeable and have abilities in the following technical areas: Cables and Cabling, Analog Telephony, Equipment, Telecom Safety and Mathematics, Transmission Service Providers and Protocols, Distribution Methods, Computer, Digital Telephony, Interfacing, Internet, Network Infrastructures and Topologies, Office Wiring, Wireless Telephony, Test Equipment, Optical Wiring, and Troubleshooting. Candidates that hold a Standalone TCM and later complete the Associate CET (CETa), are eligible to upgrade to a Journeyman CET.

Click here to go to RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) is a journeyman-level certification recommended for radar electronics technicians with knowledge of radar basics and concepts applicable to all types of avionics, maritime and land systems. RADAR Electronics Technicians must be knowledgeable and have abilities in the following technical and human relations areas: Block Diagrams and Schematics, Components, Cabling and Antennas, Hand Tools & Soldering, Mathematics, Amplifiers, RADAR Transceivers, Interfacing, Satellite, Wireless, and Data Communications, Computers and Digital Concepts, Software Programming, Troubleshooting, and People Relations. Candidates must hold the Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) certification prior to taking the RADAR exam. Individuals with a valid FCC Element 8, and either the ETA Associate CET (CETa) or a Journeyman (CET) certification, are eligible for a rollover to an ETA RADAR certification. Candidates must take a written exam.

Click here to go to Fiber Optics Technician (FOT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Fiber Optics Technician (FOT) certification is an intermediate-level fiber optics professional credential. Candidates for the FOT certification are expected to have knowledge of fiber optics concepts pertaining to designing, configuring, installing, and maintaining fiber optics systems. FOTs test and troubleshoot Local Area Networks (LANs) with various faults. The FOT certification is designed for technicians, system analysts, design engineers, managers, telecommunications professionals, fusion splicers, mechanical splicers, end users, and others whose professions require fiber optics knowledge and skills. The prerequisite for the FOT certification is the ETA-I Fiber Optics Installer (FOI), or equivalent work experience. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Senior Certified Electronics Technician (CETsr) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Senior Certified Electronics Technician (CETsr) certification is intended for, but not limited to, the professional electronics service technicians, technician managers, consultants, and electronics educators who have been active in the industry for six or more years. The CETsr candidates must pass an entire certification exam which includes the Associate level exam, plus one of the specialized Journeyman options. The CETsr exam focuses on advanced practice and theory applicable to the electronics specialty selected.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET), Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level is an entry-level certification. This certification validates the candidate's basic electronic knowledge for entry-level electronic professions. The exam covers basic electronics, math, DC and AC circuits, transistors and troubleshooting. The Associate CET is also a pre-requisite for ISCET Journeyman level certifications. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; communications which include 2-way transceivers and the servicing of these types of equipment. Also, Receiver's basic communication theory, transmitters, deviation, sensitivity, quieting and troubleshooting. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Industrial COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Industrial. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; characteristics and applications of industrial electronics components, the operation of devices such as triacs, SCRs, diacs, and Shockley diodes. Also covered are various kinds of transducers, operation of transistors and op-amps, single-phase and three-phase control systems, motors, PLCs and industrial electronics safety and basic knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Medical COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Medical. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; Electrical safety and accuracy of calibration for electro medical instruments, plus the need for prompt in-house electronic service, are the priorities in this option. The applicant is expected to demonstrate a familiarity with the basic concepts and vocabulary of instrumentation, telemetry, measurements, differential amplifier and operational amplifier applications. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; General knowledge of both pulse radar and continuous wave radar operation is necessary for taking this Journeyman option. This test covers transmitters and receivers, CRT display systems and their power supplies, antennas, transmission lines and their characteristics. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional - Senior COOL Snapshot page.

Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional - Senior. The first level of certification, Technologist GDTP, provides a measure of an individual's ability to understand drawings that have been prepared using the language of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, as defined in the Y14.5 Standard. The second level, Senior GDTP, provides the additional objective measure of an individual's ability to select and apply geometric controls to drawings. A Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing Professional might typically be employed as, but not limited to: Design Engineer; CAD/CAM/CAE Specialist; Drafter, Production or Manufacturing Engineer; Process Engineer; Quality Engineer; Tool or Gage Engineer; Engineering Manager; Checker; Engineering Consultant; Educator; Inspector; Contract Engineer; Project Engineer; and Technical Specialist. Candidates must must have five years of documented experience in the field of GD&T in the recognized use of the system in both application and understanding. Candidates must also pass a multiple-choice examination. This credential must be renewed every three years, and may be renewed without examination upon verification of involvement with GD&T for at least 24 of the previous 36 months.

Click here to go to Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional - Technologist COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Industrial Hydraulic Mechanic (IHM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), Industrial Hydraulic Mechanic (IHM) certification is for professionals in the fluid power and motion control industry who fabricate, assemble, test, maintain, and repair systems and components. IHMs understand hydraulic symbols, read system schematics, and are skilled in using hand tools, power tools, micrometers, and testing equipment. To earn the IHM certification, candidates must pass a written exam and a job performance exam.

Click here to go to Industrial Hydraulic Technician (IHT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), Industrial Hydraulic Technician (IHT) certification is for professionals in the fluid power and motion control industry who troubleshoot, test, modify systems, and prepare reports. IHTs apply fluid power theory and related knowledge to test and troubleshoot operational industrial hydraulic systems and applications. IHTs also read industrial application schematics, perform basic cylinder and hydraulic motor calculations, and supervise system installations and commissioning. To earn the IHT certification, candidates must pass a written exam and a job performance exam.

Click here to go to Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic (MHM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic (MHM) certification is for professionals in the fluid power and motion control industry who fabricate, assemble, test, maintain, and repair systems and components. MHMs understand hydraulic symbols, read system schematics, and are skilled in using hand tools, power tools, micrometers, and testing equipment. To earn the MHM certification, candidates must pass a written exam and a job performance exam.

Click here to go to Mobile Hydraulic Technician (MHT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), Mobile Hydraulic Technician (MHT) certification is for professionals in the fluid power and motion control industry who troubleshoot, test, modify systems, and prepare reports. MHTs apply fluid power theory and related knowledge to test and troubleshoot operational industrial hydraulic systems and applications. MHTs also read industrial application schematics, perform basic cylinder and hydraulic motor calculations, and supervise system installations and commissioning. To earn the MHT certification, candidates must pass a written exam and a job performance exam.

Click here to go to Pneumatic Mechanic (PM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), Pneumatic Mechanic (PM) certification is for professionals in the fluid power and motion control industry who fabricate, assemble, test, maintain, and repair systems and components. PMs understand hydraulic symbols, read system schematics, and are skilled in using hand tools, power tools, micrometers, and testing equipment. To earn the PM certification, candidates must pass a written exam and a job performance exam.

Click here to go to Pneumatic Technician (PT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), Pneumatic Technician (PT) certification is for professionals in the fluid power and motion control industry who troubleshoot, test, modify systems, and prepare reports. PTs fabricate, assemble, service, maintain and test pneumatic equipment. PTs also calculate force and motion control systems and follow blueprints and schematics with ISO standard pneumatic symbols. To earn the PT certification, candidates must pass a written exam and a job performance exam.

Click here to go to Certified Control Systems Technician - Level I (CCST-I) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

ISA's Certified Control Systems Technician Program (CCST) offers third-party recognition of technicians' knowledge and skills in automation and control. CCSTs calibrate, document, troubleshoot, and repair/replace instrumentation for systems that measure and control level, temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables. CCST certifications are available at three levels, and each level requires the successful completion of an examination. The CCST examination is only one requirement for certification. The candidate must also meet minimum requirements comprised of work experience and education.

Click here to go to Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician (CBET) validates technicians have required knowledge of the principles of modern biomedical techniques, the proper procedure in the care, handling and maintenance of biomedical equipment and to display an attitude/behavior expected of an electronics technician who works in a hospital or healthcare environment. This is a mid-level certification. Applicants are required to meet certain education and experience requirement. There are several routes to meet the requirements; completion of a U.S. military biomedical equipment technology program and two years full-time BMET work experience is one way to meet the requirement.

Click here to go to Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES) is formal recognition that individuals have demonstrated excellence in theoretical as well as practical knowledge of the principles of biomedical equipment technology. Applicants are expected to have experience in a wide-range of medical imaging modalities, electromechanical devices, computers, networks, and software used in the delivery of healthcare. Applicants are required to meet certain education and experience requirement. There are several routes to meet the requirements; completion of a U.S. military biomedical equipment technology program and two years full-time BMET work experience is one way to meet the requirement.

Click here to go to Wireless Communications Electronics Technician (WCM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Wireless Communications Electronics Technician (WCM) certification is an intermediate journeyman-level credential for wireless technicians. The WCM certification is targeted toward workers performing installation, maintenance and repair of mobile and fixed radio communications systems. Candidates seeking the ETA-I WCM credential are required to have a basic education in fundamental electronics. Candidates must pass the Associate (CETa) exam before qualifying to sit for the Journeyman level certification exam. To be eligible for a rollover to an ETA-I Wireless Communications (WCM) certification, candidates must hold a valid FCC GROL and either an ETA-I Associate CET (CETa), General Communications Technician - Level 1 (GCT1) or Journeyman CET certification.

Click here to go to Biomedical Electronics Technician (BMD) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Biomedical Electronics Technician (BMD) candidates are expected to obtain knowledge of the principles of modern biomedical techniques, the proper procedure in the care, handling and maintenance of biomedical equipment and to display an attitude/behavior expected of an electronics technician who works in a hospital or healthcare environment. Once the CET has acquired these skills, abilities and knowledge, he or she will be able to enter employment in any part of the biomedical electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination. The BMD is a Journeyman certification that requires two years of experience and completion of the CETa certification or equivalent.

Click here to go to Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) certification is an intermediate journeyman-level credential for electronics technicians. Candidates applying for the IND certification are expected to understand basic industrial electronics concepts applicable to various specialty areas of industrial electronics; Additionally, candidates must meet minimum experience requirements of at least two years working in the industry, this may include electronics training. IND candidates must be knowledgeable and have skills in the following areas: Amplifiers, Optical Wiring, Block Diagrams Schematics, Power Supplies, Test Equipment Tools, Mathematics, Computers Digital Concepts, Safety, Satellite Wireless Data, Communications, Cabling, Troubleshooting, Motors, Programmable Logic Controllers, and Software. Candidate must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) tests, calibrates, maintains and repairs electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, analytical and electronic measuring, recording and indicating instruments and equipment for conformance to established standards. Candidate must have five years of on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the Certified Calibration Technician Body of Knowledge (If the candidate has completed a degree from a college, university, or technical school with accreditation accepted by ASQ, part of the five-year experience requirement will be waived). Candidate must pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Biomedical Imaging Electronics Technician (BIET) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Biomedical Equipment Technician (BIET) certification candidates have the expertise to maintain, calibrate, adjust, and repair many different types of equipment. BIET's work on medical imaging equipment including, x-rays, defibrillators, and patient monitors. BIET's use hand tools, software, electronic tools, multi meters, and soldering irons to complete the repair on sophisticated medical equipment. BIETs should be familiar with the following topics: Anatomy, Medical Terminology, Computer, Electro/Mechanical Safety, Picture Archive Communication System, Diagnostic Ultrasound Equipment, Building Wiring, Basic Radiographic Equipment, Film Processing, Test Equipment, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography, Nuclear Medicine, Codes and Regulations, Troubleshooting, Radiation Safety, Radiation Physics, and Linear Accelerators. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Technician COOL Snapshot page.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Technician certification requires candidates to provide record of six years or more of experience in EMC technician work. Graduation from an iNARTE-approved electronics technology curriculum of two years or U.S. Navy Class "A" school is considered equivalent to one year of required experience. Engineering teaching of a character satisfactory to iNARTE may be considered as a maximum of two years experience. Candidates must submit a minimum of one supervisory reference and two additional references each supporting character and competency as an EMC Technician, and must compose 10 original multiple choice questions with correct answers and supporting references. Candidates must also pass an examination, which covers topics such as Bonding, Shielding, Grounding, and lightning interference. More information about the examination can be found on the certifying agency's website.

Click here to go to Avionics Electronics Technician (AVN) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Avionics Electronics Technicians (AVN) certification is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals who install, maintain and adjust electronics equipment, cabling and the accessories used in aviation communications and control equipment. It is highly recommended that the Avionics technician have an FCC General Radio Telephone Operator license. Candidates must hold the Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETa) certification prior to taking the Avionics Electronics Technician exam. Several of the topics covered in this examination include: Avionics Systems, Cabling, Computers and Digital Concepts, Amplifiers, Interfacing, Antennas and Transmission Lines Components, Mathematics, Network Topologies and Infrastructures, People Relations, Optical Cabling, Safety, Test Equipment and Tools and Satellite Communications.

Click here to go to Certified Aerospace Technician Core COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

SpaceTEC, Certified Aerospace Technician Core is an entry-level certification that covers general knowledge in the areas of introduction to aerospace, applied mechanics, basic electricity, test and measurements, materials and processes, and aerospace safety. To earn the Certified Aerospace Technician Core certification, applicants must meet at least one of the eligibility criteria and pass both a written exam and a practical exam. Applicants who do not receive a satisfactory score on the written exam will also be required to pass an oral exam.

Click here to go to Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) is NCATT's primary certification and is required for NCATT endorsements in the career field. AET certification recognizes the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promotes integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce. AET knowledge and skills include basic electronics facts, terminology, and principles, common maintenance practices, fundamentals of equipment maintenance, and aircraft fundamentals. There are no AET eligibility requirements. The AET written exam is open to all individuals regardless of career field, training, education or experience.

Click here to go to Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Engineer COOL Snapshot page.

An Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Technician has knowledge of the instruments and test setups of EMC, and has good writing and verbal skills. Technicians know the pitfalls of real measurements.This mid-level credential is applicable to professional technicians practicing in EMC fields to include bonding, grounding, shielding, EMI prediction, EMI analysis, conducted and radiated interference, lightning protection and more. All candidates have to be competent in the fundamentals, i.e., coupling, filters, and shielding. Candidates must provide specific record of six years or more of experience in EMC technician work, and must have graduated from an iNARTE-approved electronics technology curriculum of two years; or U.S. Navy Class "A" school is considered equivalent to one year of required experience. The satisfactory completion of each year of such an approved technician curriculum is considered equivalent to one year experience. Candidates must submit a minimum of 1 supervisory reference and 2 additional references each supporting character and competency as an EMC Technician, and must compose 10 original multiple choice questions with correct answers and supporting references. Candidates must also pass the iNARTE EMC Technician examination.

Click here to go to Fiber Optics Technician (Outside Plant) (FOT-OSP) COOL Snapshot page.

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Fiber Optics Technician (Outside Plant) (FOT-OSP) is an intermediate-level certification for professionals who terminate, test and troubleshoot single-mode fiber optic communication systems. FOT-OSPs understand optical loss budgets, not to exceed loss budgets and has the knowledge and skills required for troubleshooting single-mode OSP fiber optic communications systems addressing the roles of attenuation, dispersion and refection and how to identify and troubleshoot each. Though ETA-I does not require any specific education, training, or experience for the standalone FOT-OSP, candidates are strongly encouraged to have the requisite knowledge and experience necessary to challenge the exam.

Click here to go to Certified Control Systems Technician - Level II (CCST-II) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

ISA's Certified Control Systems Technician Program (CCST) offers third-party recognition of technicians' knowledge and skills in automation and control. CCSTs calibrate, document, troubleshoot, and repair/replace instrumentation for systems that measure and control level, temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables. CCST certifications are available at three levels, and each level requires the successful completion of an examination. The CCST examination is only one requirement for certification. The candidate must also meet minimum requirements comprised of work experience and education.

Click here to go to Certified Control Systems Technician - Level III (CCST-III) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

ISA's Certified Control Systems Technician Program (CCST) offers third-party recognition of technicians' knowledge and skills in automation and control. CCSTs calibrate, document, troubleshoot, and repair/replace instrumentation for systems that measure and control level, temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables. CCST certifications are available at three levels, and each level requires the successful completion of an examination. To qualify to sit for the CCST examination, the candidate must have a minimum of 13 years of combined education, training, and/or experience.

Click here to go to Termination and Testing Technician (TTT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Termination and Testing Technician (TTT) certification is recommended for mid-career level technicians. TTTs terminate, connect, test, and troubleshoot IP-enabled voice/data/video cable and devices to each other using connectors, tools and techniques specific to fiber optic, copper pairs, and coaxial cabling. Candidates must take and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Technician in Precision Optics (TPO) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate DC (EM1) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate DC (EM1) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of various electrical and electronics concepts, electronic measurement equipment, electronic components, circuitry, and other related subjects specific to direct current (DC) electronics. The EM1 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate AC (EM2) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate AC (EM2) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of AC, safety, cabling, and other procedures. The EM2 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of diodes, transistors, thyristors, integrated circuits, optoelectronic devices, power supplies, basic test equipment and measurements, mathematics and formulas, amplifiers, and other related subjects. The EM3 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of various digital electricity and electronics concepts, numbering systems and conversions, and other related subjects. The EM4 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of soldering, desoldering, tools, electrical conductors, AC power distribution, circuit protection, circuit controls, generators, motors, interfacing of electronics products, and technician work procedures. The EM5 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Certified Laser Repair Technician (CLRT) COOL Snapshot page.

The Certified Laser Repair Technician (CLRT) is the entry-level National Council on Laser Certification credential designed for experts who repair medical lasers. Candidates include biomedical engineers, technicians or those mechanically inclined and trained to work on lasers. The certification is intended to meet the ANSI 136.3 requirement that laser service technicians obtain training in both laser safety, and technical repair procedures commensurate with the level of work they will be performing.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand

GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill. Click for external link to GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click here to go to the GI Bill site.

ANSI

This credential has been accredited by ANSI. Click for external link to the ANSI web site.

ICAC

This credential has been accredited by ICAC. Click for external link to the ICAC web site.

NCCA

This credentialing program has been accredited by NCCA. Click for external link to the NCCA web site.

ABSNC

This credential has been accredited by ABSNC. Click for external link to the ABSNC web site.

IAS

This credential has been accredited by IAS. Click for external link to the IAS web site.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job
Registered Apprenticeship
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