Overview

Distance, pressure, altitude, underwater depth — they’re all measured by precision instruments. The test measurement and diagnostic equipment support specialist keeps all the Army’s precision instruments in top condition.

Job Duties

• Adjust and repair weapon-aiming devices, such as range finders, telescopes and ballistic computers
  
• Calibrate weather instruments (e.g., barometers and thermometers)
  
• Repair and calibrate engineering instruments, such as transits, levels, telemeters and stereoscopes
  
• Repair gyrocompasses, watches, clocks and timers
  
• Calibrate electrical test instruments

Requirements

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Training

Job training for a test measurement and diagnostic equipment maintenance support specialist requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 34 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instructions. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field, including practice in repairing precision instruments.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Calibration and repair of precision-measuring instruments
  
• Use of blueprints and schematics

Helpful Skills

• Interest in mathematics, science, electronics and shop mechanics
  
• Ability to solve mechanical problems and work with tools
  
• Interest in machines and how they work

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will prepare you for a career as an instrument mechanic or a calibration specialist at companies such as manufacturing firms, airlines, machinery repair shops or maintenance shops. Through your extensive Army training and experience and some additional study, you may be able to qualify for Electronics Technician Association certification.