Engineering and architecture
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.
Median pay
$78,190
Growth to 2035
+2%
about as fast as average
Openings a year
8,100
Time to qualify*
2 years
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- Associate's degree
- On-the-job training
- None
- Prior experience
- None
Calculate your switch to electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Outdoors in all weather
Hazardous conditions
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians: 14% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core tasks
- Review electrical engineering plans to ensure adherence to design specifications and compliance with applicable electrical codes and standards.
- Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
- Assemble, test, or maintain circuitry or electronic components, according to engineering instructions, technical manuals, or knowledge of electronics, using hand or power tools.
- Maintain system logs or manuals to document testing or operation of equipment.
- Modify, maintain, or repair electronics equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Compile and maintain records documenting engineering schematics, installed equipment, installation or operational problems, resources used, repairs, or corrective action performed.
- Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.
- Supervise the installation or operation of electronic equipment or systems.
Also called: Communication Technician (Communication Tech) · Communications Technologist · Electrical Engineering Technician (Electrical Engineering Tech) · Electrical Technician (Electrical Tech) · Electronic Engineering Technician (Electronic Engineering Tech) · Electronic Technician (Electronic Tech) · Electronics Engineering Technician · Electronics Technician
Outlook and AI
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians held 96,900 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 99,200 by 2035 (+2%, about as fast as average; all jobs: +3.5%).
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