Autonomous Systems Technician Competency Model (Tier 4)

The purpose of this survey is to identify the foundational technical competencies for the Autonomous Systems workforce across three primary domains of air, land, and sea-based autonomous technology. We recognize that some competencies may vary by domain, platform, or system. The competencies included here are intended to be system- and domain-agnostic and to reflect the core knowledge, skills, and abilities that build on a broader foundation of personal effectiveness, academic, and workplace competencies. Together, these competencies represent the essential elements for successful performance in autonomous systems occupations across the industry.

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Install and troubleshoot electrical components and control circuits using proper test instruments, measurements, and documentation.
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Apply the basics of transformers to include operation, application, sizing, and various types.
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Apply the basics of circuit protection to include testing fuses, circuit breakers, disconnects, and other protection devices.
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Explain network management concepts, cryptologic applications, and key differences between public and private networks.
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Apply fundamental networking and operating system concepts to identify network components, isolate faults, and resolve common issues.
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Inspect, identify, splice, and terminate communication cabling, including coaxial installations, to meet security and performance requirements.
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Install and inspect navigation and communication antennas while recognizing and controlling hazards associated with RF transmission.
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Service and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, including safely relieving system pressure before maintenance or disassembly.
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Maintain hydraulic system filtration by removing, cleaning, inspecting, and installing filters in accordance with procedures.
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Manage hydraulic fluids by servicing reservoirs and applying correct fluid characteristics, storage, and handling practices.
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Fabricate, install, and inspect rigid lines and flexible hoses, applying correct torque and witness-mark practices on critical fittings.
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Inspect and repair fluid lines and fittings by selecting proper conductors and seals and verifying installation security requirements.
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Apply fluid power safety practices, including required personal protective equipment, during hydraulic and pneumatic work.
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Apply Pascal’s Law and knowledge of cylinder types to explain how fluid power systems generate and transmit force.
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Troubleshoot electrical engine systems by testing circuits, diagnosing starting systems, and verifying tachometer components.
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Inspect and test charging, lighting, and engine-speed indicating systems while interpreting equipment test, operating, and failure logs.
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Develop and apply fault-isolation logic for control systems, including relay-based start/stop/jog circuits on ground control units.
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Follow approved troubleshooting procedures and handle mechanical gyros and gyro-equipped instruments using proper precautions.
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Maintain and install instruments using electrostatic discharge controls and correct removal and installation techniques.
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Perform mechanical servicing tasks by troubleshooting ignition systems and selecting appropriate lubrication.
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Measure angles, square, level and plumb
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Routing and securing wires and wire bundles.
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Construct electrical wiring by selecting wire sizes and terminals and performing termination, splicing, and soldering to best-practice standards.
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Repair composite structures and select cleaning or corrosion-treatment materials and processes that prevent further structural damage.
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Perform composite and fiberglass repairs by inspecting structures, mixing materials, and completing layup and vacuum-bagging preparation per repair manuals.
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Select appropriate adhesives or fasteners and apply safe repair methods, techniques, and practices for composite structures and windows.
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Create repair sketches and interpret wiring schematics, including ladder diagrams, to support maintenance and troubleshooting.
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Use system diagrams to identify wiring and fluid-power components, including hydraulic and pneumatic valves and related hardware.
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Apply torquing principles and nondestructive testing methods to verify assembly integrity and material condition.
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Operate drilling and machine tools, including mills, lathes, and CNC equipment, using proper setup and safe practices.
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Select and use hand and power tools, including wrenches, taps and dies, and files, to perform maintenance and fabrication tasks safely.
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Apply measurement and layout practices to support precision cutting operations using plasma or water-jet equipment.
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Calibrate and use electrical test equipment, from multimeters to oscilloscopes, while maintaining tool and hardware accountability.
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Read and care for measurement gauges and instruments and handle compressed gas bottles safely for shop operations.
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Measure dimensions using micrometers and vernier calipers to meet precision requirements.
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