Given the ever-increasing presence of electronics in most industrial sectors and the strong development of digital technologies, electronics technicians are very much in demand, regardless of the sector (e.g. aerospace, automobile, telecommunications, medical).
The duties of electronics technicians vary depending on the type of company for which they work. The work will involve more repair and maintenance in a manufacturing workshop or after-sales service department. Electronics technicians are often required to be versatile in order to handle sales prospecting, commercial negotiations and after-sales service. With large companies or consulting firms, the work will be more focused on trials and controls. In such cases, they occupy a more specific function that allows them to work on prototypes, the designing of new parts, etc.
MAIN DUTIES
REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE:
- Identify the source of the technical problem
- Repair or change the part
- Draw up the maintenance schedule
- Maintain a spare parts inventory and handle orders
- Analyze the defects and efficiency of parts and equipment
They may also be asked to:
- Prospect for new clients
- Provide after-sales service
STUDY AND CONTROL:
- Study the specifications
- Assist the electronics engineer in part design
- Conduct conformity tests
- Perform adjustments as required
- Update control reports
They may also be asked to:
- Write operating notes
- Train users
- Install parts on site
EDUCATION
To work as an electronics technician, you must have a college diploma in electronics, electrotechnology, industrial electronics technology or an equivalent field.
SKILLS
- Thorough knowledge of the technical environment
- Good knowledge of basic computer programming
- Background in two fields (e.g. electronics and micro-electronics)
- Good writing skills
QUALITIES
- Accurate and meticulous
- Versatile and self-reliant
- Able to respect deadlines
- Open to change and technological developments
- Keen on electronics
- Drive
SALARY
Compensation for electronics technicians varies depending on their experience and province of work. On average, starting salaries are about $30,000 a year. With a specialty and plenty of experience, they can make $50,000 a year or even more, depending on the type of company for which they work.
CAREER PATH
With a few years of experience under their belts, electronics technicians can work in positions of responsibility, e.g. project manager or team leader. These kinds of jobs will be easier to get if you are working on an engineering degree at the same time. Electronics technicians can also decide to specialize in disciplines like electrodynamics, instrumentation or automation.