Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Electronics Technician
What electronics technicians actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Review test procedures for a new circuit board revision. From there, the day usually includes build and assemble prototypes, solder and rework circuit boards, and test circuits and systems. Most work full-time days; some manufacturing and field roles include shifts or travel.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an electronics technician working full time.
- Review test procedures for a new circuit board revision.
- Set up the test bench with a power supply and oscilloscope.
- Test boards and log measurements.
- Troubleshoot a failing board and find a cracked solder joint.
- Rework the joint under a microscope.
- Help an engineer build a prototype harness.
- Write the test report.
Where electronics technicians work
Technicians work in labs, factories and field sites, at benches with test equipment, often in clean or ESD-controlled areas.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time days; some manufacturing and field roles include shifts or travel.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Build and assemble prototypes
- Solder and rework circuit boards
- Test circuits and systems
- Troubleshoot electronic failures
- Calibrate and maintain equipment
- Document test results
- Support engineers with design changes
Tools you’ll use every day
- Oscilloscopes
- Multimeters
- Power supplies and function generators
- Soldering stations
- Microscopes
- Test fixtures and software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Associate degree path
- Hands-on technical work
- Many industries
- Path to engineering roles
What’s hard
- Detailed, precise work
- Some repetitive testing
- ESD and safety procedures
- May need security clearance for defense work
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like electronics
- I enjoy troubleshooting
- I have steady hands
- I like precise measurement
- I want a two-year degree path
- I might want to become an engineer
Not sure? Take the free Electronics Technician fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Use ESD protection
- De-energize circuits before rework
- Use fume extraction when soldering
- Respect high voltage and capacitors