Summary Guide forElectrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians in California
May also be called: Electrical Technicians; Research Electricians; Electronics Technicians; Electrical Mechanical Technicians; Product Engineering Technicians; and Field Technicians.
Specialties within this occupation include: Semiconductor Development Technicians; Calibration Laboratory Technicians; and Instrumentation Technicians.
What Would I Do?
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians work to improve the electronics used to revolutionize the way we live. They play an essential role in the research and development, manufacture, modification, and maintenance of a wide range of products.
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians work in various locations ranging from laboratories to power plants depending upon the industry. They usually work a standard 40-hour week, unless a plant operates around the clock.
Will This Job Fit Me?
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technician jobs will appeal to those who like practical, hands-on problems and solutions. An interest in math and science is helpful.
What Wages and Benefits Can I Expect?
The median wage in 2009 for Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians in California was $58,722 annually, or $28.23 hourly. The median is the point at which half of the workers earn more and half earn less.
Generally, benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement, and life insurance plans, as well as holidays. Some employers offer profit sharing, stock purchase plans, and bonuses. Temporary agencies may offer fewer benefits.
What is the Job Outlook?
In California, the number of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians is expected to grow slower than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians are expected to increase by 10.0 percent, or 2,300 jobs between 2006 and 2016.
Estimated Employment and Projected Growth
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians |
|---|
Geographic Area
(Estimated Year-Projected Year) | Estimated
Employment | Projected
Employment | Numeric
Change | Percent
Change | Additional Openings
Due to Net
Replacements |
|---|
California
(2006-2016) | 23,000 | 25,300 | 2,300 | 10.0 | 4,500 |
|
| View Projected Growth for All Areas |
Employment of Engineering Technicians is expected to increase due to competition, forcing companies to improve and update manufacturing facilities and product designs. Most growth is expected in temporary employment agencies.
How Do I Qualify?
Most employers expect applicants to have an associate degree. As technology becomes more sophisticated, employers will look for Engineering Technicians who are skilled in new technologies. Training is available at technical institutes, community colleges, and in the military.
Finding a Job
Direct application to employers remains one of the most effective job search methods. Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians can also contact their school placement center for job leads and apprenticeships. Newspapers, online classified ads, professional journals, and trade publications advertise job opportunities as well. Most private employers and the government list vacancies on their Web sites. Online job opening systems include JobCentral at www.jobcentral.com and CalJOBSSM at www.caljobs.ca.gov.
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