Fluid Power Technicians


Outlook

Employment Prospects

Employers

The largest users of fluid power hydraulic equipment are the construction machinery, agricultural machinery, machine tool, material handling, and automotive industries, according to the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA), an industry trade organization. The largest users of pneumatic power hydraulic equipment are the automotives, semiconductor machinery, packaging machinery, medical equipment, and metalworking/machine tools industries. Companies in California, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois employ the largest number of fluid power professionals.

Starting Out

Most fluid power technicians obtain their jobs through their community and technical college career services offices. In addition, organizations such as the NFPA have lists of their corporate members that can be used to start a job search. Job openings are also posted on employment Web sites and in the employment sections of newspapers.

Advancement Prospects

Some technicians advance in terms of receiving more responsibility simply by becoming more knowledgeable and skilled in their work. Another route for technicians is to become a fluid power specialist by taking additional training and upgrading their certification. A specialist designs fluid power systems, and can instruct newer employees on the basics of these systems.

Some technicians go into sales and marketing, using their experience and knowledge to provide customers with technical assistance. Another option is to become a fluid power consultant, who works with different companies to analyze, design, or improve fluid power systems.

Tips for Entry

Read Fluid Power Journal (http://fluidpowerjournal.com) to learn more about the field.

Visit https://nfpafoundation.org/explore-fluid-power-careers/companies-in-the-industry for a list of fluid power companies.

Become certified to show employers that you have met the highest standards established by the industry.