How to become an Engineering Technician

What does an Engineering Technician do?

Are you always tinkering with things to see how they work? A job as an engineering technician could be the ideal career path for you...

An engineering technician works alongside engineers, assisting them in the research and development of new technologies. Engineering technicians are project based and are responsible for gathering and analysing data collected from research, testing products to identify any flaws and areas for improvement, helping to conduct tests and record data. 

Engineering technicians can work in several fields, including: mechanical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, electrical and electronic engineering.

The tasks an engineering technician performs will depend on what field they work in, but may include: 

• Working alongside engineers to design, build and test solutions for different engineering problems
• Reviewing and modify existing designs 
• Conducting research, analysing data and writing up reports with findings of the research
• Using Computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop designs and incorporate feedback from engineers
• Maintaining accurate records
• Preparing presentations 

Is a career as an Engineering Technician right for me?

You’ll need strong analytical thinking and mathematical skills to become an engineering technician, as a large proportion of your work will involve analysing data collected from research, tests and roundtable discussions. The findings of this analysis may be used to modify existing designs or shape the development  of new designs, so excellent attention to detail is similarly essential. Other skills needed to become an engineering technician include: 

• An understanding of the latest engineering technology
• Proactivity, and self-motivational skills
• Flexibility
• Patience 
• Research skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills