Electronics Engineering Technicians
Overview
Electronics engineering technicians work alongside engineers to build and test the electronic devices we use every day, from smartphones and medical equipment to communication systems and automation technology. They assemble prototypes, calibrate testing equipment, and troubleshoot technical problems using advanced diagnostic tools and computer software. This hands-on career combines problem-solving skills with technical knowledge, often involving teamwork in labs and manufacturing facilities. Many technicians enter the field with an associate degree in electronics or engineering technology.

Did you know?
Most employers require an associate degree in electronics technology or related field, along with industry-specific certifications that may need periodic renewal.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$76,810.59 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Writing
Key Responsibilities
- Modify, maintain, or repair electronics equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Install or maintain electrical control systems, industrial automation systems, or electrical equipment, including control circuits, variable speed drives, or programmable logic controllers.
- Review electrical engineering plans to ensure adherence to design specifications and compliance with applicable electrical codes and standards.
- Assemble, test, or maintain circuitry or electronic components, according to engineering instructions, technical manuals, or knowledge of electronics, using hand or power tools.
- Review existing electrical engineering criteria to identify necessary revisions, deletions, or amendments to outdated material.
- Participate in training or continuing education activities to stay abreast of engineering or industry advances.
- Compile and maintain records documenting engineering schematics, installed equipment, installation or operational problems, resources used, repairs, or corrective action performed.
- Specify, coordinate, or conduct quality control or quality assurance programs or procedures.
- Research equipment or component needs, sources, competitive prices, delivery times, or ongoing operational costs.
- Supervise the installation or operation of electronic equipment or systems.
- Set up and operate specialized or standard test equipment to diagnose, test, or analyze the performance of electronic components, assemblies, or systems.
- Produce electronics drawings or other graphics representing industrial control, instrumentation, sensors, or analog or digital telecommunications networks, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Conduct statistical studies to analyze or compare production costs for sustainable or nonsustainable designs.
- Educate equipment operators on the proper use of equipment.
- Assemble electrical systems or prototypes, using hand tools or measuring instruments.
- Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
- Modify electrical prototypes, parts, assemblies, or systems to correct functional deviations.
- Calculate design specifications or cost, material, and resource estimates, and prepare project schedules and budgets.
- Review, develop, or prepare maintenance standards.
- Interpret test information to resolve design-related problems.
- Integrate software or hardware components, using computer, microprocessor, or control architecture.
- Procure parts and maintain inventory and related documentation.
- Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.
- Design or modify engineering schematics for electrical transmission and distribution systems or for electrical installation in residential, commercial, or industrial buildings, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Select electronics equipment, components, or systems to meet functional specifications.
- Replace defective components or parts, using hand tools and precision instruments.
- Participate in the development or testing of electrical aspects of new green technologies, such as lighting, optical data storage devices, and energy efficient televisions.
- Construct and evaluate electrical components for consumer electronics applications such as fuel cells for consumer electronic devices, power saving devices for computers or televisions, or energy efficient power chargers.
- Maintain system logs or manuals to document testing or operation of equipment.
- Provide user applications or engineering support or recommendations for new or existing equipment with regard to installation, upgrades, or enhancements.
Career Considerations
Education and Certification Requirements
Most employers require an associate degree in electronics technology or related field, along with industry-specific certifications that may need periodic renewal.
Industry Specialization Impact
Career prospects vary significantly by specialization, with declining opportunities in traditional manufacturing but growing demand in renewable energy and medical equipment sectors.
Geographic and Salary Considerations
Median annual salary ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 depending on location and industry, with higher compensation typically found in metropolitan areas and specialized sectors like aerospace.