How long does it take to become an electronics technician?

It takes about two years to become an electronics technician. However, the amount of time it takes may vary depending on how long it takes you to complete your electronics engineering technician program.

Is an electronics technician a good job?

Yes, being an electronic technician is a good job. It doesn't take long to become a technician (between one to two years), and once you graduate, you can earn over $50,000 a year. Electronic technician jobs are always in demand, and each day at work is a new experience.

What skills does an electronics technician require?

The skills needed to be an electronic technician include a thorough understanding of electronics principles and design. All electronics technicians need skills that will help them modify, repair, and improve existing electronic products and equipment.

What is an electronics technician and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted expert

John Irwin EdD

An electronics technician works to install, repair, and maintain electronic equipment and systems. This can include everything from computers and communication systems to medical equipment and navigational devices. Electronics technicians are skilled in troubleshooting and problem-solving, using specialized tools and equipment to diagnose and fix issues. They may also design and test new products. Electronics technicians play a critical role in ensuring that electronic devices function properly and meet the needs of the users.

What general advice would you give to an electronics technician?

John Irwin EdD

Chair, Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology, Professor, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Michigan Technological University

Engineering technology graduates are masters of technology, gaining a broad and deep understanding of the processes, systems, tools, and techniques necessary to construct, modify, operate, and maintain an engineering design. They act as technological integrators, bridging the gap between the skilled trades and engineering fundamentals. This is a great career path for those who enjoy engineering concepts but would rather spend time working with their hands solving specific technical issues than tackling broader, more complex design challenges.

ScoreElectronics TechnicianUS Average

Salary

3.6

Avg. Salary $46,660

Avg. Salary $59,228

Diversity

2.5

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.15%

Asian 8.05%

Black or African American 6.26%

Hispanic or Latino 10.43%

Unknown 4.32%

White 70.79%

Gender

female 8.61%

male 91.39%

Age - 52

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 52

Stress level

5.5

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

7.4

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

6.2

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being an electronics technician?

Pros

High demand for skilled technicians
Good job security
Opportunities for career advancement
Good salary and benefits
Learning new skills and techniques

Cons

Risk of exposure to hazardous materials
May require working in uncomfortable positions or environments
High risk of eye strain, back pain, and other physical discomforts
Long hours, including nights and weekends
Potential for high-pressure situations when deadlines must be met.

Key steps to become an electronics technician

Explore electronics technician education requirements

Most common electronics technician degrees

Associate

52.2 %

Bachelor's

26.1 %

High School Diploma

9.8 %

Start to develop specific electronics technician skills

Skills	Percentages
Hand Tools	6.25%
RF	5.32%
Ladders	4.48%
Preventive Maintenance	4.14%
Oscilloscopes	3.94%

Complete relevant electronics technician training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New electronics technicians learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an electronics technician based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real electronics technician resumes.

Gain additional electronics technician certifications

Electronics technician certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific electronics technician certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for electronics technicians include Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) and Industrial Electronics (IND).

More About Certifications

Research electronics technician duties and responsibilities

Manage and distribute cad standards to contributing design consultants and assist with any design issues as necessary.
Diagnose and troubleshoot malfunctions in electrical and electronic components.
Calibrate, troubleshoot and repair professional electronic test equipment: oscilloscopes, oscillators and pulse generators.
Utilize a wide array of test equipment including oscilloscopes, signal generators, and communications monitors.

Prepare your electronics technician resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your electronics technician resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an electronics technician resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose from 10+ customizable electronics technician resume templates

Build a professional electronics technician resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your electronics technician resume.