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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Electronic Technician

💰 $45,000 - $85,000

Skilled TradesManufacturingEngineeringTechnology

🎯 Role Definition

As a skilled Electronic Technician, you are the backbone of our technical operations, ensuring the reliability and performance of cutting-edge electronic systems. You will apply your deep technical knowledge to assemble, test, troubleshoot, and repair complex electronic components and equipment. This role requires a meticulous, hands-on problem-solver who can read intricate schematics, wield a soldering iron with precision, and operate sophisticated test equipment. You'll be a vital link between engineering and production, providing critical feedback to improve product quality and manufacturability. If you thrive in a dynamic environment where your technical expertise directly impacts product success, this is the opportunity for you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Associate's Degree in Electronics Technology
  • Military Electronics Training (e.g., Avionics, Fire Control)
  • Technical/Vocational School Certification

Advancement To:

  • Senior Electronic Technician / Lead Technician
  • Field Service Engineer
  • Test Engineer or Engineering Technician
  • Technical Supervisor or Lab Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) Technician
  • Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform complex troubleshooting and diagnostics to identify root causes of electronic failures down to the component level on printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other assemblies.
  • Assemble, install, test, and maintain a wide variety of electronic equipment, components, and systems using hand tools, power tools, and precision instruments.
  • Read, interpret, and work from complex electrical schematics, blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical manuals to determine and execute repair procedures.
  • Calibrate, test, and align advanced electronic systems and instrumentation to ensure they meet precise performance specifications and quality standards.
  • Execute detailed functional, system-level, and environmental tests on new and repaired products, meticulously documenting results, deviations, and test conditions.
  • Perform high-precision soldering and desoldering of surface-mount (SMT) and through-hole components in compliance with industry standards like IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001.
  • Set up, configure, and operate a wide range of electronic test equipment, including oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, logic analyzers, and power supplies.
  • Maintain detailed and accurate service logs, repair records, and test data reports to ensure full traceability and compliance with our Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Collaborate effectively with design and manufacturing engineers to provide critical feedback on product design for manufacturability (DFM) and testability (DFT).
  • Install, modify, and upgrade electronic systems and firmware in accordance with approved Engineering Change Orders (ECOs).
  • Analyze and interpret test data to identify performance trends, recurring failure patterns, and opportunities for process or product improvement.
  • Assist in the development, construction, and validation of prototypes, test fixtures, and jigs for new product introductions.
  • Ensure all work is performed in strict compliance with electrostatic discharge (ESD) safety protocols and other workplace health and safety regulations.
  • Interface with quality assurance teams to investigate and resolve non-conforming material (NCM) issues and support root cause analysis activities.
  • Repair and rework complex printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs), including those with fine-pitch components, BGAs, and other challenging packages.
  • Configure and validate computer-based test systems and automated test equipment (ATE) for use in a production or service environment.
  • Build and test custom cable assemblies and wiring harnesses according to detailed specifications and wiring diagrams.
  • Conduct preventative maintenance on critical production and test equipment to minimize downtime and ensure sustained operational readiness.
  • Provide clear technical support and guidance to junior technicians, assembly personnel, and sometimes customers on complex technical issues.
  • Manage and maintain an organized inventory of spare parts, electronic components, tools, and consumable supplies for the electronics lab.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist engineering teams with prototype builds and provide hands-on feedback during early development stages.
  • Contribute to the development and refinement of work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for assembly and testing.
  • Participate in continuous improvement projects and Kaizen events aimed at enhancing quality, efficiency, and safety.
  • Support safety audits and help maintain a clean, organized, and 5S-compliant workspace.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Schematic Interpretation: Advanced ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex electronic schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical blueprints.
  • Component-Level Troubleshooting: Proven expertise in diagnosing and resolving failures in analog and digital circuits down to the individual component level.
  • Test Equipment Proficiency: Hands-on mastery of standard and advanced electronic test equipment, including oscilloscopes, multimeters, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
  • Soldering & Rework: High-level proficiency in soldering and rework techniques for both surface-mount (SMT) and through-hole components, with IPC certification (e.g., J-STD-001, IPC-7711/7721) strongly preferred.
  • PCB Assembly & Repair: Deep practical knowledge of printed circuit board assembly, inspection criteria, and complex repair procedures.
  • Electronic Fundamentals: Strong understanding of electronic theory, component functions, and common failure modes.
  • Technical Documentation: Ability to clearly and concisely document test results, repair actions, and failure analysis findings.
  • Computer & Software Skills: Competency in using computer systems for data entry, report generation, and interfacing with test software.

Soft Skills

  • Analytical Problem-Solving: A methodical and logical approach to identifying problems, analyzing evidence, and implementing effective solutions.
  • Attention to Detail: Exceptional meticulousness and precision in all aspects of assembly, testing, and documentation.
  • Independent Work Ethic: Ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision, manage priorities, and meet deadlines effectively.
  • Communication & Teamwork: Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with engineers, quality assurance, and production staff.
  • Adaptability: A flexible and proactive mindset to learn new technologies and adapt to changing project requirements and priorities.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Associate's Degree (A.S.) in Electronic Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
  • OR a High School Diploma/GED combined with equivalent formal military electronics training or a recognized technical certification.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree (B.S.) in Electrical Engineering Technology (EET).

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electronic Engineering Technology
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechatronics

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-7 years of direct, hands-on experience as an electronic technician in a manufacturing, testing, or service/repair environment.

Preferred:

  • Experience working in a regulated industry such as aerospace, medical devices, defense, or telecommunications.
  • Demonstrable experience with RF (Radio Frequency) equipment and testing procedures.
  • IPC certification in soldering or rework (J-STD-001, IPC-A-610, IPC-7711/21).
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