What Does an Electronics Technician Do?
An electronics technician assembles, tests, repairs, and maintains electronic systems and components in support of engineering or manufacturing operations. These professionals work with printed circuit boards (PCBs), wiring harnesses, control systems, and communication devices to ensure functional, safe, and reliable operation of electrical equipment.
Electronics technicians interpret schematics and blueprints, use diagnostic tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes, and apply soldering and rework techniques to assemble or troubleshoot circuitry. They work in environments ranging from product development labs and production floors to field service operations in telecommunications, aerospace, defense, medical devices, and consumer electronics.
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Electronics Technician Core Responsibilities
- Build, assemble, and install electronic systems, subassemblies, and wiring
- Perform diagnostics, testing, and troubleshooting using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and signal generators
- Solder and desolder components on PCBs and rework boards as needed
- Interpret wiring diagrams, blueprints, and electronic schematics
- Calibrate and repair electrical equipment to meet specifications
- Maintain detailed testing documentation and service records
- Assist engineers in product development, prototyping, or system upgrades
- Follow safety protocols and applicable standards (e.g., IPC, ESD control)
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in using diagnostic tools (e.g., oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, DMM)
- Soldering and rework experience with through-hole and surface-mount components
- Ability to read and interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and datasheets
- Familiarity with electronic testing procedures and QA documentation
- Understanding of AC/DC theory, circuit design, and basic digital logic
Soft skills
- Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail
- Analytical thinking and fault isolation skills
- Team collaboration with engineers and production staff
- Strong documentation and communication ability
Education
- Associate degree in electronics technology, electrical engineering technology, or related field
Military electronics training or technical school credentials are often accepted equivalents.
Certifications
- None required
IPC-A-610, IPC-J-STD-001, or ETA Certified Electronics Technician (CET) are highly valued in regulated industries.
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in an electronics manufacturing or test environment
- Experience with ESD-sensitive components and cleanroom protocols
- Familiarity with programmable devices or embedded systems
- Ability to use or develop test fixtures and automation scripts
National Average Salary
Electronics technician salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Electronics Technician is:
$62,232
Sample Job Description Templates for Electronics Technicians
Field Service Electronics Technician
Position Overview
The field service electronics technician installs, repairs, and maintains electronic equipment at customer locations. This hands-on role requires travel, troubleshooting under pressure, and professional customer interaction.
Responsibilities
- Diagnose and repair electronic systems on-site at client locations
- Perform preventative maintenance and system calibrations
- Interpret schematics and service manuals to isolate failures
- Document service visits and generate field reports
- Train end-users on equipment functionality when needed
Requirements
Hard skills
- Knowledge of analog/digital circuitry and basic AC/DC theory
- Proficiency with multimeters, oscilloscopes, and basic tools
- Ability to read schematics and interpret technical documents
Soft skills
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Self-directed with time management in the field
- Adaptability in varied environments
Education
- Associate’s degree or military electronics training
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of field electronics repair experience
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel
PCB Repair Technician
Position Overview
A PCB repair technician is responsible for troubleshooting, soldering, and repairing printed circuit boards (PCBs) at the component level. This precision role supports manufacturing or maintenance teams in restoring failed assemblies.
Responsibilities
- Inspect and diagnose faults in PCB assemblies
- Replace surface-mount and through-hole components using soldering tools
- Rework and touch up solder joints to IPC standards
- Use microscopes, hot air rework stations, and multimeters for precision work
- Maintain documentation and traceability logs
Requirements
Hard skills
- Fine-pitch soldering and desoldering experience
- Familiarity with IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 standards
- Understanding of electronic components and board layouts
Soft skills
- Excellent hand-eye coordination and patience
- Attention to detail in inspection and rework
- Quality-focused mindset
Education
- Technical certification or trade school preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- IPC certification (e.g., IPC-A-610 or 7711/21)
- Experience with ESD-safe workstations
RF Electronics Technician
Position Overview
The RF electronics technician supports the testing, calibration, and repair of radio frequency (RF) and microwave components. This role is key in telecom, defense, and aerospace, where high-frequency signal integrity is critical.
Responsibilities
- Test RF circuits and components using spectrum analyzers and signal generators
- Calibrate transmitters, receivers, and filters
- Assemble and tune RF boards and enclosures
- Document test results and perform root-cause analysis
- Ensure EMI/RFI compliance and shielding where required
Requirements
Hard skills
- Knowledge of RF theory, impedance, and signal propagation
- Hands-on experience with test instruments (VNA, spectrum analyzer)
- Soldering and micro coax cable termination skills
Soft skills
- Analytical mindset for RF troubleshooting
- Precision and attention to waveform behavior
- Clear technical documentation ability
Education
- Associate’s degree in electronics or RF technology
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in radar, satellite, or radio communication systems
- MIL-STD or aerospace electronics background
Production Test Technician
Position Overview
The production test technician verifies the functionality of electronic assemblies in a manufacturing environment. They follow standardized procedures to detect defects, record data, and support quality control initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Run functional and electrical tests on finished units or subassemblies
- Use oscilloscopes, power supplies, and test fixtures
- Record pass/fail data and flag discrepancies for rework
- Collaborate with production and engineering teams to improve test flow
- Ensure quality metrics are met and maintained
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic electronics knowledge and measurement proficiency
- Familiarity with standardized test procedures and QA protocols
- Experience operating test benches or automated test equipment (ATE)
Soft skills
- Accuracy and repeatability under time constraints
- Good communication in fast-paced environments
- Organization and attention to documentation
Education
- Associate’s degree or equivalent training
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years in electronics manufacturing or testing
- ISO 9001 or Lean Six Sigma awareness
Aerospace Electronics Technician
Position Overview
An aerospace electronics technician assembles, tests, and maintains avionics and other flight-critical electronics for aircraft or spacecraft. This role requires strict adherence to FAA, DoD, or AS9100 quality and traceability standards.
Responsibilities
- Assemble and test avionics and control systems per engineering specs
- Perform diagnostics and repairs on flight hardware
- Document build/test processes for traceability and compliance
- Follow IPC and FAA repair standards
- Participate in audits and support inspections
Requirements
Hard skills
- Knowledge of avionics systems, sensors, and EMI controls
- Experience with electronic testing tools and aerospace-grade wiring
- Familiarity with FAA/EASA or AS9100 requirements
Soft skills
- Discipline in following regulated procedures
- Collaboration with quality and engineering teams
- Strong technical documentation and traceability
Education
- Associate’s degree in electronics or avionics
Preferred Qualifications
- IPC or FAA repair certification
- Experience in Part 145 repair station or military aviation
Biomedical Electronics Technician
Position Overview
A biomedical electronics technician installs, calibrates, and repairs electronic medical equipment in hospitals, labs, and clinics. This role ensures patient safety and regulatory compliance in high-stakes environments.
Responsibilities
- Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair diagnostic and therapeutic medical devices
- Perform preventative maintenance and calibration on schedule
- Maintain records for FDA, ISO 13485, or Joint Commission audits
- Provide support to clinical staff on equipment usage
- Follow infection control and safety protocols in healthcare environments
Requirements
Hard skills
- Knowledge of medical equipment electronics (e.g., defibrillators, ventilators, infusion pumps)
- Familiarity with safety testing standards (e.g., ANSI/AAMI)
- Experience with service manuals, schematics, and troubleshooting
Soft skills
- Professionalism in clinical settings
- Precise documentation and reporting
- Responsiveness to urgent equipment needs
Education
- Associate’s degree in biomedical or electronics technology
Preferred Qualifications
- AAMI CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician)
- Experience in hospital or OEM service roles