FAQ
Electronics Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an electronics technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an electronics technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about electronics technicians
Do electronics technicians need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
Where do they work?
Manufacturing, labs, defense, telecom and medical devices.
Can technicians become engineers?
Yes, often with more education.
How much does an electronics technician make?
The median annual wage for electronics technicians was $78,190 ($37.59 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $49,510 and the highest 10% earned more than $115,700.
How long does it take to become an electronics technician?
Most people need about 2 years of training. An associate degree in electronics or electrical engineering technology is typical. Military electronics training is also common.
Do you need a degree to be an electronics technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
Is electronics technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.4% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 8,100 openings each year. Upsides include associate degree path; a common challenge is that detailed, precise work.
What skills does an electronics technician need?
Key technical skills include circuit theory, soldering and rework, oscilloscopes and multimeters, and schematic reading. Employers also value attention to detail, problem solving, and patience.
What certifications are available for electronics technicians?
Common credentials include ETA International Certified Electronics Technician (CET), IPC J-STD-001, IPC-A-610, and FCC GROL. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Electronics Technician fit quiz, compare with Avionics Technician, or explore Electronics Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-3023 (Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.