The duties and responsibilities of Calibration Engineers depend on the industry where they work and on their respective employers. They use different methods and tools for gathering and analyzing data and presentation.
They are responsible for the development of calibration methods and applications for the technology which needs to be calibrated. The calibration application they develop gives them a tool to capture and analyze pertinent data, as well as provide them with guidance on how to react and modify the variables involved in calibration.
Nature of Work
Calibration Engineers can be found in various industries. In the transportation industry for example, they work in all aspects of calibration, making sure that fuel economy, exhaust emissions and drivability goals are met. To accomplish these goals, they plan and conduct tests on engines and their components in compliance with the calibration process designed for the purpose. They are involved in the planning of calibration programs and are responsible for ensuring that the results conform to quality standards. These programs may include vehicle and engine instrumentation and preparation, conducting and overseeing tests in authorized facilities, field trials, suppliers and contractors’ management, and support for the development of prototypes of engines and vehicles. They make sure that test vehicles’ hardware and controls are updated. They monitor and arrange for the installation of needed instrumentation and shipment of vehicles, instruments and equipment where they are required. Calibration engineers also have administrative duties such as documentation of vehicles registration and tax payments. They also keep records of shipping documentation, and equipment and materials requisitions as required in support of the calibration team. They also help in determining hardware and supporting systems components needed to meet calibration requirements in the future.
Qualifications
Calibration engineers need to have a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline. They should have excellent written and verbal communication skills. They should be able to work with others and lead them as required. They should know how to use calibration tools although some employers provide training necessary for the job. They should have a high level of problem solving and analytical skills. They should be able to collect and interpret data, and present them to management. They should be highly familiar with the operations, equipment and technology used in the industry where they work.