Understanding the Occupation of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
If you are considering a career in the electrical or electronic engineering field, you might want to consider becoming an electrical or electronic engineering technologist or technician. These professionals play an essential role in the industry by ensuring that all the electrical equipment, systems, and machines are functioning correctly.
What is Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology?
Before we dive into the occupation of electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians, we need to understand what electrical and electronic engineering technology is. Electrical and electronic engineering technology is a branch of electrical engineering where professionals develop, design, and maintain various electrical systems, devices, and equipment.
Examples of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologist and Technician Jobs
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians work in a variety of industries, including the manufacturing, power generation, and telecommunications sectors. Here are some examples of jobs that electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians perform:
- Calibrating equipment and machinery
- Testing and repairing electronics and electrical equipment
- Installing and maintaining power grids
- Designing and developing new electrical systems
- Assisting in the installation of electrical wiring in buildings
- Ensuring that electrical systems comply with safety regulations and codes
How to Get Into the Field
If you want to get into the field, you’ll generally need to have an associate’s degree in electrical or electronic engineering technology. Many colleges and universities offer programs that focus on this particular field, so it is important to research multiple options.
Progression within the Field
As you gain experience, you can move up in the occupation. For example, you could become a senior electrical and electronic engineering technologist or technician, a technical supervisor, or a technical manager. You might also want to consider obtaining additional certifications or a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering to expand your skills and advance your career.
Salary Data for Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
| Occupation | Job Level | Union | Salary (US National Average) | Salary (San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA) | Salary (Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Level 05 | Nonunion | $53,601.60 / $52,707.20 | $84,884.80 / $75,816.00 | $51,230.40 / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Level 07 | Nonunion | $72,592.00 / $69,160.00 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Level 09 | Nonunion | $82,035.20 / $74,713.60 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Level 10 | Nonunion | $107,286.40 / $93,017.60 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Not able to be leveled | Nonunion | $74,588.80 / $70,012.80 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Entry | Nonunion | $59,176.00 / – | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Experienced | Nonunion | $91,748.80 / – | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | All levels | Union | $71,552.00 / $69,076.80 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | All levels | Nonunion | $67,995.20 / $65,977.60 | $84,884.80 / $75,816.00 | $51,230.40 / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | All levels | $68,764.80 / $65,894.40 | $84,884.80 / $75,816.00 | $51,230.40 / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Level 05 | $53,726.40 / $52,811.20 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Level 07 | $72,758.40 / $69,180.80 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Level 09 | $81,785.60 / $74,526.40 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Level 10 | $107,140.80 / $92,892.80 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Not able to be leveled | $75,233.60 / $67,808.00 | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Entry | $59,384.00 / – | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | Full-time | Experienced | $91,707.20 / – | – / – | – / – |
| Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians | All levels | Time-based pay | $68,494.40 / $66,497.60 | $84,884.80 / $75,816.00 | – / – |
Effects of union on this job function: Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians who are part of a union tend to earn a slightly higher salary compared to those who are not part of a union. Union membership may also provide job security and benefits for employees in this occupation.
Conclusion
Overall, becoming an electrical or electronic engineering technologist or technician can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. These professionals play an essential role in the industry by maintaining and repairing electrical equipment, systems, and machines. With the necessary education and training, as well as additional certifications or a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, you can advance your career in this exciting field.
