FAQ
Vending Machine Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a vending machine technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a vending machine technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about vending machine technicians
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is driving required?
Yes, usually a route.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects slight decline.
How much does a vending machine technician make?
The median annual wage for vending machine technicians was $47,450 ($22.81 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $34,320 and the highest 10% earned more than $66,370.
How long does it take to become a vending machine technician?
Most people need about A few weeks on the job of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a vending machine technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is vending machine technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -3.4% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 3,800 openings each year. Upsides include independent route work; a common challenge is that lots of driving.
What skills does a vending machine technician need?
Key technical skills include electrical troubleshooting, refrigeration basics, payment systems, and mechanical repair. Employers also value reliability, customer service, and problem-solving.
What certifications are available for vending machine technicians?
Common credentials include EPA 608, Manufacturer training, Driver’s license, and Electronics course. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Vending Machine Technician fit quiz, compare with Appliance Repair Technician, or explore Vending Machine Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9091 (Coin, vending, and amusement machine servicers and repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Coin, vending, and amusement machine servicers and repairers (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.