Following our first article,
Starting as a Field Engineer – what’s in your toolkit
we have had more advice from experienced Field Service Engineers about the types of tools they carry.
This time the advice includes a chop stick.

What sort of tools does a field service engineer carry

Field Service Engineer in Copenhagen, Denmark

René Wass-Heilesen works for Ramcon as a Field Engineer servicing laboratory instruments such as microscopes and capillary electrophoresis instruments. René is based in Denmark but also covers Sweden and Norway.

What is in your tool kit/bag which is nonstandard but really useful?
So, my non-standard tool is actually a bit strange because it’s a wooden chopstick. I have sharpened the end so that I can use it to clean along the edges with lens paper and optical cleaner on for example microscope objectives and eyepieces. This works well as it cleans without scratching the surface.
Which tool could you not work without?
My most used tool is the Bit and Socket Set from Bahco because of the mini ratchet that can be used almost everywhere.

Carrying tools

What’s the best bag, box or case you have ever used?
My case is a Pelicase 1510 that has been with me since I started at Ramcon 8½ years ago. It has had a lot of use but the only things that have been replaced are the wheels and bearings. They were replaced free because of lifetime warranty.
(Peli is the brand name of Pelican throughout Europe)

Field Service Engineer in Missouri, USA

Al Bates is from Kansas City, Missouri. He works for a company called Standard-Knapp out of Connecticut. He has been a Field Service Engineer for several years now and works on the installation and commissioning of packaging machines.

What is in your tool kit which is nonstandard but useful?
Melatonin is my secret tool for personal success. After a long day I use a small dose of Melatonin to get my brain from running circles into the late-night hours. I find it to be better and healthier than alcohol.
Without it my mind would just run in circles:
“What can I do to correct this problem?”
“How about if I try this next?”
“What if I check this next?”
and so on.
This tool helps me get a good night’s sleep. Then I can show up the next day well rested and ready, fully recharged, and sharp.
Which tools could you not work without as a field service engineer?
Two of my most important tools which I always have on me and I would never be without are my cell phone and a nice reliable flashlight.
The cell phone has so many tools: calculator, camera, video camera, audio recording for notes and the list goes on and on. When starting a new job/employer that is going to supply you with a phone, always make sure to request a specific phone, one that you are comfortable with operating. I am an iPhone person trying to use a Samsung, not fun.
Many times, the buildings that I go into are not well lit and/or the inside of the machine is dark, so my flashlight lets me see anything and everything clearly.

Carrying tools

What’s the best bag, box or case you have ever used?
The best tool bag or box that I have ever used is the Pelican Air 1535. It is the standard box for traveling service personnel but a little lighter than the standard Pelican case. I do have a larger capacity Pelican Air 1607 for larger, longer, more in-depth jobs where I might need to carry even more specialty tools.

Field Service Engineer in Kerala, India

Akhil John Varghese works as a Field Service Engineer for Sartorius. He works on lab products and bioprocess solutions.

What is in your tool kit/bag which is really useful?
As a Field Service Engineer, I am used to carrying my tool bag on site even if I am just going to the office. So, I’m never without tools.
My tool bag contains:
A Multimeter
Allen key set
Adjustable spanner
Precision screwdriver set
Pliers

Which tool could you not work without?
As a standard procedure we check the line voltage and earthing using a Multimeter. So, I always have this to hand.

Carrying tools

What’s the best bag, box or case you have ever used?
At the moment I have a customised tool bag and also use a Stanley toolbox.

Field Service Engineer in Manila, Philippines

Mark Renzyl Valenzuela works as a Field Service Engineer for Schneider Electric.

What is your advice to newcomers to the field service industry?
My advice to newcomers to the field service industry is to be like a sponge. Absorb everything you can learn. Always remember that a master wasn’t always a master; everybody started as a beginner before they mastered their craft. Learn from those who have been on the journey for the longest time. Then often seek their advice. Don’t be discouraged when you make mistakes; it’s all part of the journey.

What is in your tool kit/bag which is non-standard but really useful?
Serial cables, ranging from RS232 to USB, or audio jack to USB, etc. Dealing with UPS systems uses different kinds of serial cables. Having these cables always comes in handy.

Which tool could you not work without?
I could not work without my laptop.
Everything we do to effectively perform our jobs is through a laptop. From start-up, configuration, maintenance, you name it, it needs a laptop to access the product.
What’s the best bag, box, or case you have ever used?
Trolley bag.
It’s especially great when traveling. It can be converted into a backpack as well. All the tools, test kits, cables, etc., can fit in nicely. As you know, field service does a lot of walking as well. It feels really comfortable not to put all that weight on your back.

Field Service Engineer in Colorado, USA

Nathan Aldrich is an experienced engineer who repairs complex electro/mechanical automation systems in the biotech industry. He works for Epredia.

What is in your tool kit/bag which is nonstandard but really useful?
I have a Wiha Impact Bit Set in my tool bag. They are precision machined and hardened bits and so don’t warp.

Which tool could you not work without?
I am never without a pair of flush nippers during my working day.

What’s the best bag, box, or case you have ever used?
Pelican hard cases are the best especially for travel.

Worth Sharing!