Career roadmap
How to Become an Electronics Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an electronics technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an electronics technician: (1) study math and electronics, (2) earn an associate degree, (3) get certified, (4) start as a technician, (5) advance. Most people need about 2 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an electronics technician
Study math and electronics
Learn circuits and measurement.
Earn an associate degree
Electronics technology programs combine labs and theory.
Get certified
Add IPC soldering or CET credentials.
Start as a technician
Test and troubleshoot boards.
Advance
Become a senior technician, test engineer or engineer.
Education and training requirements
An associate degree in electronics or electrical engineering technology is typical. Military electronics training is also common.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- ETA International Certified Electronics Technician (CET): Electronics technician certification.
- IPC J-STD-001: Soldering standard certification.
- IPC-A-610: Acceptability of electronic assemblies.
- FCC GROL: Radio license for some communications work.
Skills to build now
Start with circuit theory, soldering and rework, and oscilloscopes and multimeters, and practice attention to detail and problem solving. Learning the electronics technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Electronics Technician: Test and repair boards.
- Senior Technician: Handle complex systems.
- Test or Field Engineer: Develop tests or support customers.
- Engineer or Lab Manager: Design systems or lead labs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Electronics Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do electronics technicians need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
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.
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.
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.