Electronics Engineering Technology Career Outlook

Student Jason Braun

Electronics Engineering Technology
Career Paths

Electronics engineering technologists and technicians use the principles and theories of science, engineering, and mathematics to solve technical problems in research and development, manufacturing, sales, construction, inspection, and maintenance. Their work is more narrowly focused and application-oriented than that of scientists and engineers. Position titles include:

• Electrical and electronic engineering technicians
• Industrial engineering technicians
• Electro-mechanical technicians
• Aerospace engineering and operations technicians
• Computer and electronic equipment manufacturing technicians

About 34% of all engineering technologists and technicians worked in manufacturing. Another 25% worked in professional, scientific, and technical service industries (mostly in engineering or business services companies that do engineering work on contract for government, manufacturing firms, or other organizations). In 2008, the Federal Government employed 35,300 engineering technicians. State governments employed 31,300, and local governments employed 25,100.

Work Environment

Most engineering technologists work in office buildings, laboratories, or industrial plants. Others may spend time outdoors at construction sites and oil and gas exploration and production sites, where they monitor or direct operations or solve onsite problems. Some engineering technologists travel extensively to plants or worksites here and abroad. Many work a standard 40-hour week. At times, deadlines or design standards may bring extra pressure to a job, requiring engineers to work longer hours.

Herzing University student data for Electronics Engineering Technology programs