There are many employment opportunities in the field of electronics. Electronic technicians will be expected to repair, maintain and assemble electronic equipment. Titles for technicians are often expanded and include:
Computer electronics technician, which focus on computer and IT support.
Field electronics technician, which performs outside and off-site maintenance and repair tasks.
Metrology electronics technician, which calibrate and repair equipment to NIST and other standards.
Bench electronic technician, which repair, test and assemble electronics indoors at a work bench.
Senior electronics technician, usually an in-house position, which requires extensive knowledge and experience with the organization’s products or exact technological field.
Electronics technicians use the principles and theories of science, engineering and mathematics to solve technical problems in research and development, manufacturing, sales, construction, inspection and maintenance. Their work is more limited in scope than that of scientists and engineers. Many electronics technicians assist engineers and scientists, especially in research and development. Others work in quality control, inspecting products, conducting tests or collecting data. In manufacturing, they assist in product design, development and production.
Almost all of the electronics technician careers available require repair and maintenance of the organization’s electronic equipment. This requires the ability to test and troubleshoot equipment, read schematics and maintenance manuals, solder and unsolder components, and research parts availability and costs. It also includes the ability to determine whether outside or factory support is required in order to make repairs. Specialized tasks, such as working on equipment requiring specific licensing or working in a physically dangerous environment will be defined in the description of the job.
Most electronics technician careers require at minimum an associate degree, a diploma from a technical or vocational school or military training. If you cannot claim this education, you are unlikely to receive an interview. Most organizations perform background checks which will verify any education claims.
While electronics technician careers are not physically demanding, there may be requirements to access equipment on the field, climb stairs, ladders or enter underground areas or lift large pieces of equipment for test and repair purposes. Other requirements can include licenses or special certifications, particularly for computer and IT positions.
Future opportunities will be available for individuals with an associate degree or extensive job training in engineering technology. As technology becomes more sophisticated, employers will continue to look for technicians who are skilled in new technology. An increase in the number of jobs related to public health and safety will create job opportunities for engineering technicians with the appropriate training and certification.
