Employers

The largest users of fluid power equipment are the aerospace, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, machine tool, and material handling industries, according to the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA), an industry trade organization. Fluid power also provides power for auxiliary systems on planes, ships, trains, and trucks.

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.

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.

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

Visit http://www.fluidpowerjobs.com for job listings.

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