Online Electronics Degrees
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A career in the field of electronics can be very dynamic and exciting for those who have a knack for complex technical systems and diagnosing problems. Individuals considering a career in electronics should have excellent communication skills and a solid background in electronic maintenance and repair. Though no formal education is required, certification options do exist and can demonstrate an individual's competence in this field of work. Electronics professionals should expect to work long hours and to work closely with a wide variety of people. Positions in this field may also involve some traveling, so a valid driver's license is pertinent.
Businesses and residential facilities alike rely heavily on the knowledge and skills of electronics technicians to help install, repair, maintain, and diagnose problems with electronics equipment essential to their everyday operations. Electrical repairers have a typical check list that they go through when diagnosing new issues. Field technicians tend to travel to clients' locations to work on repairs and preventive maintenance, while bench technicians typically work from a home base on electrical equipment that requires in-house work. Both field technicians and bench technicians must stay up to date with industry standards and learn how to diagnose and fix problems with the latest technology, and they must have a strong sense of the safety measures that must be abided by when working with wires and electricity.
Electronics technicians typically work in factories that are well lit and exposed to dirt, heat, noise, and vibration. They must wear safety equipment such as hard hats and gloves, and should dress comfortably. They are expected to work 40 hours per week or as required by the company they are employed by.
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Career Specializations
The two main branches of the electronics profession include field technicians and branch technicians. Field technicians travel to various locations on a rotating basis to complete their work. Most of the time, they are assigned to specific locations for regularly scheduled preventive maintenance. Branch technicians work from one location on electronics equipment that cannot be repaired or worked on in its remote location. Further specializations include technicians who work on transportation electronics, powerhouse or substation electronics, electric motors and power tools, and motor vehicles.
Degree Levels
- Certificate: 6 months-2 years to complete
- Associate Degree: 2 years to complete
Education & Certification Requirements
Entry-level positions in the field of electronics do not require formal education, but it is important that job applicants have experience in electronic repair, equipment, diagnosis methods, and maintenance. Workers should also feel comfortable working independently after only a short period of time. After a few years of experience, electronics technicians may choose to pass a certification program and exams that demonstrate to employers and customers their level of proficiency. In addition to that, it is important that these individuals have a valid driver's license, optimum communication skills, and a clean-cut appearance.
Certification is not required for electronics professionals, but there are certification options available for individuals who wish to pass an exam to show future employers that they are competent. The Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) and the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians offer a variety of certification options. In order to become certified, individuals must meet prerequisites in addition to passing an exam. (BLS)
Salary Information
Salaries for electronics professionals vary depending on the area that they choose to specialize in. For example, the middle 50 percent of technicians who repair powerhouses and substations earned between $25.68 and $33.72 per hour in 2008, while the middle 50 percent of technicians who repair commercial and industrial equipment earned between $18.40 and $28.73 during the same year. The lowest salary recorded by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for electronics professionals in 2008 was for motor vehicle electronics repair at $8.85 per hour. (BLS)
Job Outlook
According to the United States Department of Labor, the current electronics industry is moving at a relatively slow pace: four percent growth in the years 2008-2018. The most desirable positions will go to electronics professionals who have a great deal of experience, have earned a degree, and have passed proficiency exams. The reason for the slow rate of growth is due to the expansion of the robotics industry, and thus, reducing the need for humans. Many companies are using robots to test products and perform their necessary electrical maintenance and repairs rather than paying salaries to professionals. (BLS)
Related Careers
Electricians are in charge of installing, repairing, and maintaining all electrical wiring in businesses, homes, offices, etc. They have the choice of specializing in their construction or maintenance but are trained to do both. It is very important for these individuals to have a solid background in blueprint reading, diagram reading, and electrical wiring.
Elevator installers and repairers are in charge of installing, repairing, and maintaining elevators of all kinds. These individuals must have a strong background in electronics, hydraulics, and electricity.
Maintenance and repair workers have a very broad range of knowledge and background information on repairing, maintaining, and installing many different types of equipment. Their daily duties include diagnosing problems, repairing, and making adjustments with a variety of power tools. These individuals also perform routine check-ups on the equipment that they manage in order to proactively prevent problems.
Sound engineering technicians are in charge of working with the equipment found in radio and television studios, as well as concerts, plays, special recordings, and movie sets. They must know how to operate and set up equipment as well as fix and diagnose problems or complications that occur. They must also have experience adjusting sound, clarity, brightness and contrast.
