Seismological Instrument Technician Series

California State Personnel Board Specification

Series established September 6, 1978

Scope

This series specification describes three classifications in the Department of Conservation with the responsibility of installing and servicing the complex seismological instruments. Related engineering classes are not included.

Definition of Series

The Seismological Instrument Technician series describes technical work to be learned and performed in the installation, adjustment, repair, and maintenance of complex seismological measuring devices. Principal work assignments include installing the seismological instruments in field locations and structures such as high-rise buildings and dams; adjusting instruments to record data properly; and servicing instruments on a periodic basis and collecting records from the instruments after earthquakes. Work assignments are varied, requiring both field duty and office work. Extensive travel is required in the field. Positions in these classes are not supervisory.

Factors Affecting Position Allocation

The variety and complexity of the work; degree of supervision received; latitude for independent judgment and action; and degree of technical knowledge of complex seismographical instruments serve as differentiating factors between individual classes.

Definition of Levels

Seismological Instrument Technician I

This is the entry level for the series. In a learning capacity, incumbents will become proficient in the installation, maintenance, repair, and operation of various types of electronic, mechanical, and electro-optical-mechanical seismological measuring devices and equipment. Employees exercise little independent judgment when dealing with complex operational and servicing problems with the instruments. Work is carefully reviewed.

Typical tasks include serving as a team member in the installing of instrumentation systems, preparing instrumentation documentation, maintaining technical files, performing routine instrument calibrations and service procedures, and doing other duties as required.

Seismological Instrument Technician II

This is the full journey level. Incumbents exercise independent judgment in resolving installation, maintenance, and operational problems in the field and perform corrective measures without technical directions.

Typical tasks include serving as a team member in the installing of highly complex, widely distributed seismographic or accelerographic systems; interconnecting system components in accordance with wiring designs; adjusting and calibrating equipment after installation and checking for proper operation; collecting photographic analog records from equipment; maintaining records of work performed and supplies used; ordering supplies and tools; and preparing required reports. The nature of the work requires the incumbents to use precision, complex electronic test and measurement instruments in servicing, adjusting, and troubleshooting which may include developing and constructing specialized test equipment.

Seismological Instrument Technician III

Incumbents at this level personally perform the most complex and difficult instrument work and act as team leader for a team of lower level technicians in the installation, adjustment, repair, and maintenance of the complex seismological measuring devices.

Typical tasks include assisting specialists in the development of new or improved service and operation techniques; scheduling projects; planning for supplies and equipment; making inspections to ensure adherence to operating standards; preparing reports and correspondence; and doing other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Seismological Instrument Technician I

Two years of experience in the repair, maintenance, and testing of equipment incorporating electronic, mechanical, and electro-optical-mechanical systems. (One year of education, with major work in engineering, physical sciences, electronics, or a closely related field, in a recognized college, university, or trade school may be substituted for one year of the required experience.)

Seismological Instrument Technician II

Either I

One year of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a Seismological Instrument Technician I.

Or II

Three years of experience in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of industrial instrumentation, control mechanisms, or similar devices involving the application of electronics and mechanical principles. One year of this experience must have involved the adjustment, maintenance, and repair of analog or digital measuring and recording instruments.

Training in engineering, physical science, electronics, or a closely related field in a recognized college, university, or trade school may be substituted for two years of general experience on a year-for-year basis.

Seismological Instrument Technician III

Either I

Two years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a Seismological Instrument Technician II.

Or II

Five years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of industrial instrumentation, control mechanisms, or similar devices involving the application of electronics and mechanical principles; at least two years of which shall have been in connection with analog and/or digital measuring and recording instruments. (A maximum of two years' education in engineering, physical science, electronics, or a closely related field in a recognized college, university, or trade school may be substituted for general experience on a year-for-year basis.)

Knowledge and Abilities

Seismological Instrument Technician I

Knowledge of: Arithmetic, elementary principles of physical science, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; basic electronic theory, mechanical and optical principles, and electrical practices; repairing and maintaining electronic, mechanical, and optical measuring devices; use of precise electronic test equipment used in servicing, adjusting, and repairing electronic and mechanical equipment; and elementary safety precautions used in working with electrical equipment.

Ability to: Apply mechanical principles; learn rapidly; follow directions; communicate effectively with others; use good work habits, be punctual and dependable; interpret written material; analyze written and numerical data accurately; make satisfactory progress in a prescribed training program; read and write at a level required for successful job performance; read and interpret electronic, schematic and mechanical diagrams; estimate the cost of repairs; maintain simple records and make reports; and analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.

Seismological Instrument Technician II

Knowledge of: All of the above, and principles underlying the construction and operation of electronic, optical, and mechanical measurement and recording instruments; and the principles of electronics, mechanics, and physics.

Ability to: All of the above, and interpret recording charts and instruments allowing for calibration deviations and other variables; operate test and measurement devices and recognize, trace, and correct malfunctions and sources of error; and work with hand tools and soldering equipment.

Seismological Instrument Technician III

Knowledge of: All of the above, and principles of effective training; principles of time schedule management; and a manager's/supervisor's responsibility for promoting equal opportunity in hiring and employee development and promotion, and for maintaining a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Ability to: All of the above, and make modifications to existing equipment; assist in the design of new equipment; assist in developing, operating, and servicing techniques; provide functional guidance; use tact and good judgment in dealing with others; work independently; coordinate the work of a small team; and effectively promote equal opportunity in employment and maintain a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Special Personal Characteristics

All Levels:

Willingness to travel, and a demonstrated interest in shop and field instrument work.

Additional Desirable Qualifications

All Levels:

Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade. Be able to lift and transport at least forty pounds over irregular terrain for a distance of at least 100 yards.

Class History