Engineering Technicians
Engineering technicians support engineers and scientists by creating detailed technical drawings, testing equipment, and implementing engineering solutions across diverse industries. These professionals use computer-aided design software, specialized testing equipment, and technical knowledge to develop blueprints, maintain complex systems, and ensure projects meet safety and performance standards. They work in fields ranging from aerospace and automotive to environmental engineering and robotics.
π¬Career Video
π€AI Resilience Assessment
AI Resilience Score
Score 3/6: balanced factors means AI will assist but humans remain essential
How we calculated this:
50% of tasks can be accelerated by AI
+5% projected (2024-2034)
EPOCH score: 17/25
πKey Responsibilities
- β’Produce drawings, using computer-assisted drafting systems (CAD) or drafting machines, or by hand, using compasses, dividers, protractors, triangles, and other drafting devices.
- β’Draft plans and detailed drawings for structures, installations, and construction projects, such as highways, sewage disposal systems, and dikes, working from sketches or notes.
- β’Coordinate structural, electrical, and mechanical designs and determine a method of presentation to graphically represent building plans.
- β’Analyze building codes, by-laws, space and site requirements, and other technical documents and reports to determine their effect on architectural designs.
- β’Draw maps, diagrams, and profiles, using cross-sections and surveys, to represent elevations, topographical contours, subsurface formations, and structures.
- β’Lay out and plan interior room arrangements for commercial buildings, using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) equipment and software.
- β’Supervise and train other technologists, technicians, and drafters.
- β’Determine the order of work and method of presentation, such as orthographic or isometric drawing.
π‘Inside This Career
Engineering technicians bridge the gap between theoretical engineering concepts and practical implementation, spending their days transforming designs into reality through hands-on technical work. Their morning might begin reviewing project specifications and engineering drawings, then shift to operating sophisticated testing equipment, calibrating instruments, or conducting field measurements. Whether working in climate-controlled laboratories, bustling manufacturing floors, construction sites, or research facilities, they apply scientific principles to solve real-world problems. A civil engineering technician might collect soil samples and survey terrain for a highway project, while an electronics technician troubleshoots circuit boards and tests component performance in a development lab.
Collaboration forms a cornerstone of their daily routine, as engineering technicians work closely with engineers, project managers, and skilled tradespeople to ensure projects meet specifications and safety standards. They frequently document their findings through detailed reports, update technical drawings using CAD software, and maintain accurate records of tests, measurements, and procedures. Their work often involves both routine maintenance tasks and complex problem-solving when unexpected issues arise during testing or implementation phases.
The variety in their workday keeps engineering technicians engaged across diverse projects and industries. One week might involve supporting the development of aerospace components through precision testing, while the next could focus on environmental monitoring or robotics programming. They regularly use cutting-edge technology, from 3D modeling software and automated testing systems to specialized measurement tools and diagnostic equipment. This blend of technical expertise, practical application, and continuous learning makes each day dynamic as they contribute to innovations spanning infrastructure, manufacturing, technology, and scientific research.
πCareer Progression
What does this mean?
This shows how earnings typically grow with experience. Entry level represents starting salaries, while Expert shows top earners (90th percentile). Most workers reach mid-career earnings within 5-10 years. Figures are national averages and vary by location and employer.
πEducation & Training
Requirements
- β’Entry Education: Bachelor's degree
- β’Experience: One to two years
- β’On-the-job Training: One to two years
- !License or certification required
Time & Cost
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Find jobs and training programs for engineering technicians- Median salary: $65K/year
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π»Technology Skills
βKey Abilities
π·οΈAlso Known As
πSpecializations
This career includes 19 specialized roles with different focuses and compensation levels.
| Specialization | Median Pay | AI Outlook | O*NET Code | Find Jobs | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $77,830 | π‘ | 17-3021.00 | View details | ||
| $73,500 | π‘ | 17-3029.00 | View details | ||
| $73,500 | π‘ | 17-3029.01 | View details | ||
| $73,500 | π‘ | 17-3029.08 | View details | ||
| $72,800 | π‘ | 17-3023.00 | View details |
πRelated Careers
Other careers in engineering
πData Sources
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