Instrumentation and Control Technician Trade Skills

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Occupational Skills

Maintains tools and equipment.

Maintains hand tools.

knowledge of types of hand tools
knowledge of hand tool operating procedures
knowledge of limitations of use of hand tools
ability to organize hand tools
ability to store hand tools
ability to clean and lubricate hand tools
ability to recognize worn, damaged or defective hand tools

Maintains portable power tools.

knowledge of portable power tools and accessories
knowledge of portable power tool operating procedures
knowledge of limitations of use of portable power tools
knowledge of powder actuated tool maintenance procedures and requirements
ability to organize portable power tools
ability to store portable power tools
ability to recognize worn, damaged or defective portable power tools
ability to clean and lubricate portable power tools

Maintains stationary power tools.

knowledge of stationary power tools such as drill presses, bench grinders, saws and pipe threaders
knowledge of stationary power tools operating procedures
knowledge of limitations of use of stationary power tools
ability to recognize unsafe, worn, damaged or defective stationary power tools
ability to clean and lubricate stationary power tools

Maintains calibration, configuration and test equipment.

knowledge of types of calibration, configuration and test equipment such as multimeters, pressure calibrators and handheld communicators
knowledge of calibration, configuration and test equipment operating procedures
knowledge of limitations of use of calibration, configuration and test equipment
knowledge of the maintenance schedule and certification requirements of calibration, configuration and test equipment
ability to recognize unsafe, worn, damaged or defective calibration, configuration and test equipment
ability to store calibration, configuration and test equipment

Maintains personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety equipment.

knowledge of PPE such as safety glasses, gloves, face shields, hearing protection and hard hats
knowledge of safety equipment such as fall arrest devices, first aid kit and eye wash station
knowledge of PPE and safety equipment operation and limitations
knowledge of the maintenance schedule and certification requirements of PPE and safety equipment
ability to clean and store PPE and safety equipment
ability to recognize unsafe, worn, damaged or defective PPE and safety equipment

Organizes work.

Uses blueprints, schematics and drawings.

knowledge of symbols and conventions used in blueprints, schematics and drawings such as Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society (ISA) standards
knowledge of metric and imperial systems
ability to identify different components found in blueprints, schematics and drawings
ability to interpret types of blueprints, schematics and drawings such as wire schematics, piping & instrument drawings (P&ID) and loop drawings
ability to produce and revise field drawings

Applies codes, standards and regulations.

knowledge of workplace safety and health regulations such as Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) and Occupational Health and Safety Act (OH&S)
knowledge of pertinent standards and codes such as ISA standards, Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and Canadian Electrical Code (CEC)
knowledge of federal and provincial/territorial environmental regulations
knowledge of hazardous area classifications
ability to access codes, standards and regulations
ability to interpret information from codes, standards and regulations

Uses documentation.

knowledge of types of documentation such as calibration sheets, data sheets and work orders
knowledge of schedules such as preventative, predictive and reliability centered maintenance documents
knowledge of management of change (facility change management) procedures
ability to use software such as spreadsheets, databases and word processors
ability to complete or assist in documenting reports such as environmental and safety
ability to complete work-related documents such as work orders, log books and permits
ability to update standard operating procedures (SOP)
ability to access and interpret manufacturers’ manuals

Communicates with others.

knowledge of trade terminology
knowledge of verbal and written communication
ability to communicate with supervisors, operators and planners regarding work plans
ability to consult with clients, colleagues, engineers and tradespersons
ability to communicate with suppliers and manufacturers
ability to mentor apprentices
ability to use hand signals for hoisting and lifting

Plans job.

knowledge of established job requirements such as personnel and schedule of operations
ability to determine task and personnel requirements
ability to schedule work with other trades and personnel
ability to estimate time to complete tasks
ability to determine the types of tools needed
ability to identify required materials and equipment
ability to identify usable power sources
ability to use preventative, predictive and reliability centered maintenance programs
ability to apply management of change (facility change management) procedures

Maintains parts inventory.

knowledge of trade equipment and parts
knowledge of forms such as bills of material, purchase orders and material requisitions
ability to identify required materials, equipment and corresponding descriptions
ability to access and interpret manufacturers' manuals to determine parts that are required

Maintains safe work environment.

knowledge of WHMIS
knowledge of workers’ rights and responsibilities
knowledge of company safety policies and procedures
knowledge of federal, provincial/territorial and municipal health and safety acts and regulations
knowledge of training requirements such as fall protection, confined space entry, and hoisting and rigging
knowledge of hazards such as nuclear devices, pressures, temperatures, chemical and voltages
knowledge of fire safety and work permit procedures
knowledge of housekeeping practices
knowledge of emergency procedures and location of on-site first aid stations and equipment
knowledge of disposal and recycling procedures
ability to install safety mechanisms such as double block and bleed valves
ability to locate and recognize safety documentation such as MSDS, WHMIS labels and TDG manuals
ability to recognize personal injury hazards
ability to recognize and report potential hazards
ability to handle and store hazardous materials
ability to install temporary safety protection
ability to use PPE and safety equipment
ability to recognize limitations of use of PPE and safety equipment

Performs routine trade activities.

Operates material handling equipment.

knowledge of types and functions of hoisting and lifting devices such as jacks, hoists and come-alongs
knowledge of types and functions of rigging equipment such as belts, ropes, cables and slings
knowledge of operating procedures for hoisting and lifting devices
knowledge of hoisting and lifting capacities
knowledge of hand signals for hoisting and lifting
ability to calculate loads and weights
ability to clean, lubricate and store rigging, hoisting and lifting devices
ability to recognize damaged, worn, defective and leaking components
ability to perform minor repairs and replenish fluids

Performs lockout, tag-out and de-energizing procedures.

knowledge of procedures for shutting down processes
knowledge of procedures for isolating equipment from energy sources
knowledge of procedures for de-energizing equipment such as electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, kinetic and nuclear
knowledge of procedures for energizing equipment such as electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic and nuclear
ability to follow company lockout, tag-out and de-energizing procedures
ability to verify lockout

Installs mounting hardware.

knowledge of types of mounting hardware such as unistrut, clamps and u-bolts
knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
knowledge of mounting hardware limitations
knowledge of seismic considerations when mounting hardware
ability to determine best location for installation of mounting hardware
ability to select mounting hardware
ability to use hand, power and stationary tools
ability to fabricate mounting hardware
ability to fasten mounting hardware

Installs process connections.

knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
knowledge of installation methods such as welded, threaded and surface mounted fittings
knowledge of limitations of piping and tubing such as schedules and materials
ability to fabricate process connections such as cutting and bending tubing, cutting and threading piping, and measuring and cutting gaskets
ability to select and apply adhesives, sealants and gaskets
ability to use hand tools
ability to connect to the process

Uses specialized computer equipment and software.

knowledge of diagnostic and configuration software
knowledge of types of interfaces such as handhelds, laptops and modems
knowledge of configuration licensing
ability to use software such as spreadsheets, databases and word processors
ability to use interfaces such as handhelds, laptops and modems
ability to update software and firmware
ability to back up data and equipment configuration

Commissions new installations.

knowledge of the equipment and process to be commissioned
ability to coordinate with the commissioning team such as engineers, operators and other trades
ability to verify the installation with methods such as loop checks and leak tests
ability to start up the equipment and process
ability to perform final adjustments such as loop tuning, switch and alarm settings

Measuring And Indicating Devices

Services pressure, temperature, level and flow measuring and indicating devices.

Installs pressure, temperature, level and flow measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of types of pressure and vacuum measuring devices such as pneumatic, electronic and mechanical
knowledge of types of level measuring devices such as differential pressure transmitter, ultrasonic and float switches (mechanical)
knowledge of types of flow measuring devices such as differential pressure, positive displacement and ultrasonic
knowledge of types of temperature measuring devices such as thermocouples, RTD (resistive thermal device), filled thermal systems, pyrometers, semi-conductor mechanical thermal systems and radiation
knowledge of types of indicating devices such as chart recorders, digital displays, gauges and CRTs (cathode ray tube)
knowledge of types of pressure such as absolute, differential, gauge and barometric
knowledge of temperature scales such as Kelvin, Fahrenheit and Celsius
knowledge of types of connections such as piping and wiring
ability to select devices according to environment, application and materials
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to modify enclosures and panels to hold devices and indicators
ability to secure devices using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to apply sealants and gaskets
ability to connect device to the control system or indicator
ability to configure measuring devices

Calibrates pressure, temperature, level and flow measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of primary elements for various measuring devices such as orifice plates, turbines and coriolis
knowledge of pressure, level and flow calibration instruments such as pressure calibrators, dead weight testers and multimeters
knowledge of temperature calibration instruments such as multimeters, temperature baths, dry block calibrators and Wheatstone bridges
knowledge of accuracy of calibration instruments
knowledge of required calibrating parameters of measuring devices such as zero, span, range, repeatability, specific gravity and accuracy
knowledge of calibration methods as required by the measuring device
knowledge of interaction of various loops
ability to convert between imperial and metric systems
ability to isolate device
ability to connect calibration instruments to measuring devices
ability to use specialized tools such as handheld calibrators, dry block calibrators and calibration software
ability to interpret results and identify cause and effect of calibration errors
ability to make adjustments to bring device within calibration parameters
ability to return device to service

Maintains pressure, temperature, level and flow measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of measuring device operation
knowledge of repair/replacement methods
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to select, repair and replace components such as seals, electronic parts, springs and mechanical devices
ability to rebuild devices
ability to clean devices using materials such as solvents, fine wire, abrasives and contact cleaners
ability to verify operation of repaired device

Services motion, speed, position and vibration measuring and indicating devices.

Installs motion, speed, position and vibration measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of motion and position/displacement measuring devices such as torque switches, proximity switches, proximity probes and analog position sensors
knowledge of speed measuring devices such as tachometers, strobes and proximeters
knowledge of vibration measuring devices such as probes and proximeters
knowledge of types of indicating devices such as chart recorders, digital displays, gauges and CRTs
ability to select measuring devices according to environment, application and materials
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to modify enclosures and panels to hold devices and indicators
ability to use installation tools such as feeler gauges, tachometers and strobe lights
ability to match cable and probe to proximeter in vibration measuring devices
ability to secure devices using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to apply sealants and gaskets
ability to connect device to the control system or indicator
ability to configure measuring devices

Calibrates motion, speed, position and vibration measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of motion, speed, position and vibration calibration instruments such as strobe lights, multimeters and tachometers
knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
knowledge of required calibrating parameters of measuring devices such as zero, span, range and accuracy
knowledge of relevant laws and principles of physics such as speed and velocity
ability to isolate device
ability to connect calibration instruments to measuring devices
ability to use specialized tools such as micrometers, feeler gauges and calibration software
ability to interpret results and identify cause and effect of calibration errors
ability to make adjustments to bring device within calibration parameters
ability to return device to service

Maintains motion, speed, position and vibration measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of measuring device operation
knowledge of materials such as solvents and contact cleaners
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to test devices and record results
ability to select, remove, repair and replace components as necessary such as proximity switches and probes
ability to identify and repair defective connections
ability to clean components such as probe faces, reflectors, optical lenses and fire eyes
ability to verify operation of repaired device

Services mass, density and consistency measuring and indicating devices.

Installs mass, density and consistency measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of types of mass measuring devices such as load cells, scales and strain gauges
knowledge of types of density measuring devices such as u-tube, displacer, nuclear and refractometer
knowledge of types of consistency measuring devices such as optical, rotary, blade, paddle and microwave
knowledge of types of indicating devices such as chart recorders, digital displays, gauges and CRTs
knowledge of factors affecting system performance such as temperature, vibration and pressure
knowledge of types of connections such as piping and wiring
ability to select devices according to environment, application and materials
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to modify enclosures and panels to hold devices and indicators
ability to secure devices using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to apply sealants and gaskets
ability to connect device to the control system or indicator
ability to configure measuring devices

Calibrates mass, density and consistency measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of calibration instruments such as multimeters, refractometers, Geiger counters and calibrated standards
knowledge of accuracy of calibration equipment
knowledge of required calibrating parameters of measuring devices such as zero, span, range, repeatability and specific gravity
knowledge of calibration methods as required by the measuring device
knowledge of interaction of various loops
ability to isolate device
ability to connect calibration equipment to measuring devices
ability to use specialized tools such as handheld calibrators, Geiger counters, calibrated standards and calibration software
ability to interpret results and identify cause and effect of calibration errors
ability to make adjustments to bring device within calibration parameters
ability to return device to service without interrupting process

Maintains mass, density and consistency measuring and indicating devices.

knowledge of measuring device operation
knowledge of repair/replacement methods
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to select and replace components as necessary such as load cells, strain gauges and bearings
ability to recognize hazards of working with nuclear measuring devices
ability to identify and repair defective connections
ability to rebuild devices
ability to clean devices using materials such as solvents, fine wire, wire brushes, abrasives and contact cleaners
ability to verify operation of repaired device

Analyzers, Safety Systems And Security Systems

Services analyzers.

Installs analyzers.

knowledge of process analyzers such as pH, conductivity, turbidity and oxidation reduction potential (ORP)
knowledge of quality control analyzers such as chromatographs and spectrometers
knowledge of environmental emission analyzers such as for noise, hazardous gases and greenhouse gases
knowledge of types of connections such as piping, wiring and flange mounted
knowledge of operation theory of analyzers
knowledge of operating parameters
knowledge of installation conditions such as extreme ambient temperature, cleanliness and contamination
knowledge of sampling systems, conditions and methods
ability to select analyzers according to application and materials
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to secure analyzers using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to apply sealants and gaskets
ability to connect analyzer to the control system or indicator
ability to configure analyzers using specialized equipment and software
ability to select carrier materials

Calibrates analyzers.

knowledge of calibration instruments such as multimeters and software
knowledge of required calibrating parameters of analyzers
knowledge of calibration material such as inert gas, water and oil
knowledge of accuracy and repeatability limitations of analyzer
knowledge of calibration methods as required by the analyzer device
knowledge of interaction of analyzer to process
knowledge of possible contamination of analyzers
ability to isolate analyzer
ability to connect calibration equipment to analyzers
ability to connect sample devices
ability to use specialized calibration tools such as handheld calibrators and calibration software
ability to interpret results
ability to make adjustments to bring device within operational parameters
ability to return device to service

Maintains analyzers.

knowledge of maintenance routines and timing
knowledge of maintenance materials such as carrier gases
knowledge of analyzer operation
ability to determine operational parameters
ability to use specialized maintenance tools such as software and handheld devices
ability to react to alarms
ability to remove, clean and replace analyzer components
ability to store sampling and calibrating materials
ability to avoid contamination

Services safety systems and security systems.

Installs safety systems and security systems.

knowledge of types of gas detection equipment such as infrared and catalytic bead
knowledge of types of fire detection equipment such as ultraviolet, infrared, magnetic and rate of rise
knowledge of types of heat detection equipment such as thermal pencils and heat sensors
knowledge of types of smoke detection equipment such as ionic and particle detectors
knowledge of types of detection equipment for toxic gases such as chlorine, H2S and phosgene
knowledge of security and safety cameras and their applications such as leak/fire monitoring, intruder alerts and remote monitoring
knowledge of theory of operation
knowledge of acceptable limits
knowledge of shutdown procedures, actions and implications
ability to select safety and security equipment
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to secure safety and security equipment using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to apply sealants and gaskets
ability to connect safety and security system to the control system or indicator
ability to configure security system using specialized equipment and software
ability to select alarming method such as stench gas, flashing lights and audible alarms

Calibrates safety systems.

knowledge of calibration instruments such as multimeters and configuration software
knowledge of required calibrating parameters of safety systems
knowledge of calibration material such as test gas and filters
knowledge of accuracy limitations of safety systems
knowledge of calibration methods as required by the safety systems
knowledge of interaction of safety system to process
ability to isolate safety systems
ability to connect calibration equipment to safety systems
ability to connect sample devices
ability to use specialized calibration tools such as handheld calibrators and calibration software
ability to interpret results
ability to make adjustments to bring device within operational parameters
ability to return device to service

Maintains safety systems and security systems.

knowledge of maintenance routines and timing
knowledge of maintenance materials such as test gases
knowledge of safety system operation
knowledge of security system operation
ability to bypass safety system and security system for maintenance
ability to perform function checks of safety systems
ability to determine operational parameters
ability to determine alarm points
ability to react to alarms
ability to use specialized maintenance tools such as software and handheld devices
ability to remove and replace safety system and security system components
ability to return safety system and security system to service

Energy Systems

Services hydraulic equipment.

Installs hydraulic equipment.

knowledge of hydraulic theories, specifications and hazards
knowledge of types of hydraulic equipment such as pumps, relays and regulators
ability to select equipment according to application and materials
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of equipment
ability to connect equipment to the system
ability to set up equipment and make adjustments such as speed and pressure

Maintains hydraulic equipment.

knowledge of hydraulic equipment operation
knowledge of repair/replacement methods
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to isolate hydraulic equipment
ability to select, remove and replace components such as seals, springs and pistons
ability to identify and repair defective connections
ability to rebuild hydraulic equipment
ability to clean equipment using materials such as solvents and brushes
ability to verify operation of repaired equipment
ability to return hydraulic equipment to service

Services pneumatic equipment.

Installs pneumatic equipment.

knowledge of pneumatic theories, specifications and hazards
knowledge of types of pneumatic equipment such as compressors, air dryers, relays, solenoid valves and regulators
ability to select equipment according to application and materials
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to determine location of equipment
ability to secure equipment using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to connect equipment to the system
ability to adjust the equipment settings

Maintains pneumatic equipment.

knowledge of pneumatic equipment operation
knowledge of repair/replacement methods
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to isolate pneumatic equipment
ability to select components such as seals, springs, diaphragms and pistons
ability to remove, repair and replace components such as relays, flapper nozzles and levers
ability to identify and repair defective connections
ability to rebuild equipment
ability to clean equipment using materials such as solvents, brushes and abrasives
ability to verify operation of repaired equipment

Services electrical and electronic equipment.

Installs electrical and electronic equipment.

knowledge of electrical and electronic theories, power quality, specifications and hazards
knowledge of types of electrical and electronic equipment such as AC/DC power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), solenoids and relays
ability to select equipment according to application
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to determine location of equipment
ability to secure equipment using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to select and install cabling and wiring
ability to connect equipment to the system
ability to adjust the equipment settings

Maintains electrical and electronic equipment.

knowledge of electrical and electronic equipment operation
knowledge of repair/replacement methods
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to isolate electrical and electronic equipment
ability to select components such as resistors, fuses and circuit boards
ability to remove, repair and replace components such as relays, capacitors and fuses
ability to identify and repair defective connections
ability to clean equipment using materials such as contact cleaners and solvents
ability to verify operation of repaired equipment

Final Control Elements

Services valves.

Installs valves.

knowledge of types of valves such as sliding stem (globe, plug, gate) and rotary (ball, butterfly, v-ball)
knowledge of process equipment operation and performance expectations
knowledge of characteristics and applications of valves
ability to select and install gaskets
ability to select and apply sealants
ability to position valve in process system
ability to secure valves using methods such as flanged and screwed

Maintains valves.

knowledge of types of valves such as sliding stem (globe, plug, gate) and rotary (ball, butterfly, v-ball)
knowledge of types and applications of packing such as Teflon, graphite and rope
knowledge of possible faults of valves such as leaking packing, valve passing and damaged parts
ability to isolate valve from process
ability to function test valve for possible faults
ability to select and replace valve components such as cages, plugs, seats and packing
ability to repair and rebuild components such as plugs, seats and stems
ability to clean valve components
ability to lubricate valve components

Services actuators.

Installs actuators.

knowledge of types of actuators such as pneumatic, hydraulic and electric
knowledge of applications of actuators such as fail-open and fail-close
knowledge of actuator actions such as spring return, double-acting and rotary
knowledge of manufacturers' installation specifications
knowledge of actuator components such as diaphragms, plates, couplings, springs, bushings and o-rings
ability to match actuator to valve
ability to connect actuator to valve
ability to benchset actuators
ability to verify operation of actuator following installation

Maintains actuators.

knowledge of types of actuators such as pneumatic, hydraulic and electric
knowledge of actuator components such as diaphragms, plates, couplings, springs, bushings and o-rings
knowledge of possible faults of actuators such as leaking diaphragms, broken springs and damaged or worn o-rings
knowledge of operating environment
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to function test actuator for possible faults
ability to select, remove and replace components such as o-rings, diaphragms, pistons, motors, brake assemblies and springs
ability to clean actuator components
ability to lubricate actuator components
ability to reassemble actuator
ability to return actuator to service

Services positioners.

Installs positioners.

knowledge of types of positioners
knowledge of positioner components such as levers, nozzles, flappers, diaphragms, feedback linkages, I/P transducers and bellows
knowledge of actuator positioner auxiliaries such as position locks and boosters
ability to select positioners for application and actuator type
ability to mount and connect positioner to actuator
ability to connect positioner to process control system
ability to configure positioners
ability to configure VFDs and VSDs where applicable

Calibrates positioners.

knowledge of types of positioners
knowledge of positioner parameters
ability to follow manufacturers' calibration instructions
ability to isolate positioner
ability to use specialized tools such as handheld calibrators, hand pumps and calibration software
ability to connect calibration instruments to positioners
ability to interpret results and identify cause and effect of calibration errors
ability to make adjustments to bring positioner within calibration parameters
ability to return valve and positioner to service after maintenance
ability to calibrate VFDs and VSDs where applicable

Maintains positioners.

knowledge of types of positioners
knowledge of positioner parameters
ability to identify possible faults of positioners such as leaks, faulty connections and worn and defective parts
ability to remove and replace positioner components such as seals, flappers, nozzles, springs, relays, motors and brake assemblies
ability to repair positioner components such as relays and linkages
ability to clean positioner components such as relays, flappers and nozzles
ability to return positioner to service

Communications, Networking And Signal Transmission

Services signal transmission systems.

Installs signal transmission systems.

knowledge of types of signal transmission systems such as fibre optics, tubing, wiring and wireless
knowledge of communication protocols such as RS232, RS422/485, MODBUS, TCP/IP and Highway Addressable Remote Transducer (HART)
knowledge of wiring methods
knowledge of connection methods
knowledge of tubing methods
knowledge of potential causes of interference
knowledge of standards, codes and licences
knowledge of features and limitations of protocols and programming languages
knowledge of grounding methods
knowledge of ground loops
knowledge of addressing methods and components
ability to follow manufacturers' specifications
ability to select wiring methods and materials
ability to select connection methods
ability to select location for wireless transmission towers and antennas
ability to mount and test wireless transmission towers and antennas
ability to plan tubing runs
ability to route wiring
ability to use tube benders
ability to strip wire
ability to connect fibre optic cabling, wiring and tubing
ability to avoid interferences with other systems and processes
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to bring system online

Configures signal transmission systems.

knowledge of communication protocols such as MODBUS, TCP/IP and HART
knowledge of features and limitations of protocols and programming languages
knowledge of standards, codes and licences
knowledge of addressing methods and components
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to use configuration software and hardware

Maintains signal transmission systems.

knowledge of communication protocols such as RS232, RS422/485, MODBUS, TCP/IP and HART
knowledge of features and limitations of protocols and programming languages
knowledge of standards, codes and licences
knowledge of addressing methods and components
knowledge of potential causes of interference
knowledge of required wireless signal strength and settings
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to perform system diagnostics
ability to identify installation problems and deficiencies
ability to manipulate process to allow for maintenance
ability to use a cable tester
ability to test wireless signal strength
ability to upgrade software and firmware
ability to remove and replace components such as chips, cards and taps
ability to clean components such as panels, fibre optic connections and filters
ability to isolate and blow down tubing lines
ability to bend, replace and connect tubing
ability to torque tubing and cable connectors

Services signal converters.

Installs signal converters.

knowledge of types of signal converters such as digital to analog, analog to digital and current to pneumatic, and current transformers
knowledge of wiring methods
knowledge of tubing methods
knowledge of connection methods
knowledge of potential causes of interference
knowledge of standards and codes
knowledge of features and limitations of converters
knowledge of grounding methods
knowledge of configuration methods
ability to follow manufacturers' specifications
ability to select wiring methods and materials
ability to select connection methods such as crimping, using terminal blocks, using marrettes and soldering
ability to plan tubing runs and bend tubing
ability to route and strip wiring
ability to connect wiring and tubing
ability to mount signal converter components
ability to avoid interference with other systems and processes
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to bring signal converter online

Calibrates signal converters.

knowledge of signal converters that require calibration
knowledge of calibration instruments such as multimeters and software
knowledge of calibration methods and parameters
knowledge of impact of calibration on process
knowledge of accuracy and repeatability limitations of signal converters
ability to use calibration test instruments such as current and voltage simulators, and pneumatic test equipment
ability to isolate system from process
ability to assist operations to manipulate process to allow for calibration
ability to interpret results
ability to make adjustments to bring device within operational parameters
ability to bring signal converter back online

Maintains signal converters.

knowledge of features and limitations of signal converters
knowledge of standards and codes
knowledge of potential causes of interference
ability to perform system diagnostics
ability to identify installation problems and deficiencies
ability to assist operations to manipulate process to allow for maintenance
ability to follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance practices
ability to upgrade software and firmware
ability to remove and replace components such as chips and cards
ability to isolate and blow down tubing lines
ability to bend, replace and connect tubing
ability to torque tubing and cable connectors
ability to bring system back online

Services Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.

Installs SCADA systems.

knowledge of types of SCADA protocols and configurations
knowledge of SCADA theory
knowledge of SCADA equipment such as RTUs, Programmable Logic Controls (PLC), Human Machine Interface (HMIs), Distributed Control System (DCSs), communication systems and interconnection media
knowledge of wireless SCADA system components such as satellite, radio and microwave
knowledge of servers for data acquisition and storage
knowledge of connection methods such as hardwired and wireless
knowledge of potential causes of interference
knowledge of standards, codes and licences
knowledge of features and limitations of protocols and programming languages
knowledge of grounding methods
knowledge of configuration methods
knowledge of network layout
knowledge of addressing methods and components
knowledge of location selection for wireless transmission towers and antennas
ability to manipulate process to allow for installation
ability to follow manufacturers' specifications
ability to select wiring methods and materials
ability to select connection methods
ability to mount and test wireless transmission towers and antennas
ability to route, strip and connect wiring
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to bring system online

Configures SCADA systems.

knowledge of communication protocols such as MODBUS, Profibus and TCP/IP
knowledge of SCADA processes and system interactions
knowledge of features and limitations of protocols and programming languages
knowledge of standards, codes and licences
knowledge of addressing methods and components
knowledge of time synchronization and time stamping
knowledge of configuration licensing
ability to take system offline
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to use configuration software and hardware
ability to avoid interference with other systems and processes
ability to bring system back online

Maintains SCADA systems.

knowledge of communication protocols such as MODBUS, Profibus and TCP/IP
knowledge of interaction of complete system
knowledge of features and limitations of protocols and programming languages
knowledge of addressing methods and components
knowledge of potential causes of interference
knowledge of required wireless signal strength and settings
knowledge of time synchronization and time stamping
ability to maintain software loads and data backups
ability to work around live systems and multiple voltage cabinets
ability to perform system diagnostics
ability to use specialized equipment for testing SCADA components
ability to identify installation problems and deficiencies
ability to manipulate system to allow for maintenance
ability to test wireless signal strength
ability to upgrade software and firmware
ability to remove and replace components such as chips, cards and taps
ability to clean components such as panels and satellite dishes
ability to torque cable connectors
ability to reboot components

Control Systems

Implements process control strategies.

Selects process control strategy.

knowledge of process control strategies such as Proportional, Integral, Derivative (PID), feed forward/back, cascade and ratio
knowledge of mathematical equations employed by strategies
knowledge of process to be controlled
knowledge of control equipment characteristics and limitations
knowledge of strategy limitations
knowledge of manufacturers’ and site requirements
ability to recognize constraints such as memory restrictions and number of input/output (I/O) points
ability to use specialized equipment such as laptop and software
ability to determine end results

Configures process control strategy.

knowledge of configuration methods and requirements
knowledge of mathematical equations employed by strategies
knowledge of configuration software
knowledge of manufacturers’ recommended configuration routines
knowledge of process specific control strategies
knowledge of interaction of other processes
ability to program control strategy
ability to interpret results
ability to recognize control limits
ability to use specialized equipment such as laptops and software
ability to determine end results
ability to adapt strategy as necessary

Services stand-alone controllers.

Installs stand-alone controllers.

knowledge of types of stand-alone controllers such as PID, feed forward/back, cascade and ratio
knowledge of types of inputs and outputs such as pneumatic and electronic
knowledge of connection methods
knowledge of operation theory
knowledge of operating parameters
knowledge of installation conditions such as extreme ambient temperature, cleanliness and contamination
ability to select controllers according to application, process and control strategy
ability to select power supply
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to connect pneumatic or electronic controllers
ability to secure controllers using methods such as screwing, bolting and bracketing
ability to use sealants and gaskets as required by location
ability to connect controller to the process system

Configures stand-alone controllers.

knowledge of configuration techniques
knowledge of configuration tools such as pneumatic test equipment, handheld programmers and software
knowledge of control parameters and process limitations
knowledge of configuration licensing
ability to use configuration software
ability to put system online

Calibrates stand-alone controllers.

knowledge of calibration techniques applied to specific control strategies
knowledge of calibration tools such as pneumatic test equipment, handheld programmers and software
knowledge of control parameters and process limitations
ability to interpret manufacturers’ specifications
ability to remove controller from process
ability to tune calibration parameters to the process conditions
ability to interpret results
ability to put the controller back into service

Maintains stand-alone controllers.

knowledge of manufacturers’ maintenance recommendations
knowledge of regular controller functions
knowledge of desired process control and process control strategy
ability to remove controller from process
ability to determine controller faults and errors
ability to recognize deviations from normal operating parameters within process
ability to remove and replace controller or components such as cards, chips and connectors
ability to tune controller parameters to varying process conditions
ability to upgrade software and firmware
ability to record configuration and tuning parameters
ability to restore controller to the process system

Services programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

Installs PLCs.

knowledge of types of PLCs supplied by various manufacturers and the differences in their architecture and capabilities
knowledge of languages such as ladder, function block, sequential function chart and script
knowledge of types of components such as power supply, processor, memory and I/O
knowledge of grounding methods
knowledge of digital, discrete and analog signals
knowledge of compatibility with other process control systems
knowledge of communication networks and protocols
knowledge of installation conditions such as heat, cleanliness and contamination
ability to recognize if redundancy is required for critical systems or loops
ability to select power supply
ability to select PLC components for process
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to connect and terminate I/O
ability to secure PLC using methods such as screwing and bolting

Configures PLCs.

knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications and recommendations
knowledge of languages such as ladder, function block, sequential function chart and script
knowledge of PLC programs and associated software such as word processors, spreadsheets and databases
knowledge of tag descriptors and addressing
knowledge of configuration parameters
knowledge of programming consistency issues
knowledge of alarm priorities
knowledge of access and security levels
knowledge of configuration licensing
ability to use programming/configuring software and hardware
ability to configure external communication
ability to upload/download programs
ability to back up programs and configuration
ability to put system online

Diagnoses PLC problems.

knowledge of computer applications related to PLC functions
knowledge of languages such as ladder, function block, sequential function chart and script
knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications and recommendations
knowledge of configuration parameters
knowledge of communication systems used by PLCs
ability to use programming/configuring software
ability to interpret software reports and trends
ability to back up programs and configuration
ability to identify network problems
ability to use diagnostic tools and equipment
ability to run and interpret self-diagnostic and alarm indicators

Maintains PLCs.

knowledge of maintenance practices
knowledge of languages such as ladder, function block, sequential function chart and script
knowledge of manufacturers’ maintenance recommendations
knowledge of logic programs and software
knowledge of controlled process
knowledge of interaction with process
knowledge of effects of maintenance actions or errors
knowledge of software and hardware limitations
knowledge of licensing and service contract requirements
knowledge of obsolescence issues
knowledge of service bulletins and alerts
knowledge of cause and effects of forcing and bypassing I/Os
ability to back up program and configuration
ability to force and bypass I/Os
ability to shut down/start up controllers
ability to upgrade software and firmware and perform revision control
ability to contact technical support
ability to change program
ability to remove and reinstall devices
ability to replace backup batteries
ability to maintain, back up and reboot server

Services distributed control systems (DCSs).

Installs DCSs.

knowledge of types of DCSs, their design and their capabilities
knowledge of languages such as function block and script
knowledge of types of components such as power supply, processor, memory and I/O
knowledge of grounding methods
knowledge of digital, discrete and analog signals
knowledge of compatibility with other process control systems
knowledge of communication networks and protocols
knowledge of installation conditions such as heat, cleanliness and contamination
ability to recognize if redundancy is required for critical systems or loops
ability to select power supply
ability to select DCS components for process
ability to follow manufacturers’ specifications
ability to determine location of devices
ability to use installation tools
ability to connect and terminate I/O
ability to secure DCSs using methods such as screwing and bolting

Configures DCSs.

knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications and recommendations
knowledge of DCS programs and associated software such as word processors, spreadsheets and databases
knowledge of languages such as function block and script
knowledge of tag descriptors and addressing
knowledge of configuration parameters
knowledge of programming consistency issues
knowledge of alarm priorities
knowledge of access and security levels
knowledge of configuration licensing
ability to use programming/configuring software and hardware
ability to configure external communication
ability to configure reports and trends
ability to upload/download programs
ability to back-up programs and configuration
ability to put system online

Diagnoses DCS problems.

knowledge of computer applications related to DCS functions
knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications and recommendations
knowledge of languages such as function block and script
knowledge of configuration parameters
knowledge of communication systems used by DCSs
ability to use programming/configuring software
ability to interpret software reports and trends
ability to back up programs and configuration
ability to identify network problems
ability to run and interpret self-diagnostic and alarm indicators

Maintains DCSs.

knowledge of maintenance practices
knowledge of manufacturers’ maintenance recommendations
knowledge of languages such as function block and script
knowledge of DCS programs and software
knowledge of controlled process
knowledge of interaction with process
knowledge of effects of maintenance actions or errors
knowledge of software and hardware limitations
knowledge of licensing and service contract requirements
knowledge of obsolescence issues
knowledge of service bulletins and alerts
knowledge of cause and effects of forcing, disabling and bypassing I/Os
ability to back up program and configuration
ability to force, disable and bypass I/Os
ability to shut down / start up controllers
ability to upgrade software and firmware and perform revision control
ability to contact technical support
ability to change programs
ability to remove and reinstall devices
ability to replace backup batteries
ability to maintain, back up and reboot server

Services human machine interface (HMI).

Installs HMIs.

knowledge of types of HMI software and hardware, their design and their capabilities
knowledge of digital, discrete and analog signals
knowledge of compatibility with other process control systems
knowledge of communication networks and protocols
knowledge of installation conditions such as heat, cleanliness and contamination
ability to select HMI software and operator interface equipment
ability to install software
ability to follow manufacturers’ programming methods and recommendations
ability to use installation tools
ability to connect communication links
ability to secure HMI using methods such as screwing and bolting

Configures HMIs.

knowledge of software/hardware manufacturers’ specifications and recommendations
knowledge of HMI programs and associated software such as word processors, spreadsheets and databases
knowledge of configuration licensing
knowledge of tag descriptors and addressing
knowledge of configuration parameters
knowledge of programming consistency issues
knowledge of alarm priorities
knowledge of read/write issues
knowledge of access and security levels
ability to use programming/configuring software
ability to lay out process graphics
ability to configure communications
ability to configure reports and trends
ability to upload/download programs
ability to back up programs and configuration
ability to put system online

Diagnoses HMI problems.

knowledge of software and hardware manufacturers’ specifications and recommendations
knowledge of HMI programs and associated software such as word processors, spreadsheets and databases
knowledge of communication systems used by HMI software
knowledge of read/write issues
ability to use programming/configuring software
ability to interpret tags and relate them to field
ability to interpret software reports and trends
ability to back up program and configuration
ability to identify network problems

Maintains HMIs.

knowledge of program and software
knowledge of controlled process
knowledge of interaction with PLC or DCS systems
knowledge of effects of maintenance actions or errors
knowledge of software limitations
knowledge of licensing and service contract requirements
ability to back up programs and configuration
ability to shut down / start up HMI
ability to upgrade software and firmware and perform revision control
ability to upload/download programs
ability to contact technical support
ability to change programs
ability to remove and reinstall devices
ability to maintain, back up and reboot server
ability to track and log changes

Provided by the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program National Occupational Analysis (NOA) http://www.red-seal.ca

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