Understanding how to become an engineering technician involves obtaining a strong qualification in engineering. Gaining practical experience through apprenticeships or entry-level roles, and pursuing further education or certification, can enhance your career prospects.

What are the Main Types of Engineering Technicians?

Engineering technicians are an essential part of the engineering process, providing the support needed to design, develop, test, and maintain systems and apparatus. There are different types of engineering technicians, each focusing on a specific field of engineering. Here are the main types:

1. Mechanical Engineering Technician: Mechanical engineering technicians support mechanical engineers in designing, testing, and manufacturing machines, tools, and mechanical devices. They work mainly in manufacturing, research, and development, creating and testing prototypes and enhancing product designs.
2. Electrical Engineering Technician: Electrical engineering technicians assist electrical engineers in developing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and devices. They work on the design, testing, and maintenance of electrical equipment, such as electrical circuits, wiring, control systems, and test equipment for power generation, telecommunication, and electronics.
3. Civil Engineering Technician: Civil engineering technicians support civil engineers, helping to plan, design, and supervise the construction of buildings and infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, canals, and dams. They help perform site inspections, conduct land surveys, and ensure that designs are implemented correctly according to specifications.
4. Electronic Engineering Technician: Electronic engineering technicians test, adjust, manufacture, operate, and repair electrical and electronic equipment and facilities, such as communication systems, broadcasting equipment, electro-medical equipment, and consumer electronics.
5. Environmental Engineering Technician: Environmental engineering technicians help environmental engineers solve environmental issues related to water and air pollution, waste management, and sustainable development by collecting samples, testing environmental parameters, and monitoring environmental conditions for compliance with regulations.
6. Industrial Engineering Technician: Industrial engineering technicians help improve production efficiency in manufacturing and industrial environments. Typically, they work in coordination with an industrial engineer to design layouts and analyse production processes. They also help create more efficient workflows that increase production and reduce waste.
7. Aerospace Engineering Technician: Aerospace engineering technicians work alongside aerospace engineers to help design, test, and maintain aircraft, spacecraft, and the systems they use. These workers assist with the design and production of parts of the aircraft and spacecraft. They work on propulsion systems, aerodynamics, and control systems to ensure that everything works properly in flight.
8. Chemical Engineering Technician: Chemical engineering technicians work in laboratories and manufacturing plants, helping chemical engineers develop processes that convert raw materials into chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, and other products by setting up and maintaining equipment, conducting experiments, and adhering to safety protocols.
9. Automotive Engineering Technician: Automotive engineering technicians assist engineers in developing, testing, and manufacturing vehicles and automotive parts. They typically work in research and development, diagnosing and repairing mechanical and electrical problems in vehicles, and ensuring vehicles meet performance standards.
10. Biomedical Engineering Technician: Biomedical engineering technicians provide technical support to biomedical engineers working in the healthcare sector by maintaining and repairing medical equipment such as diagnostic machines, ventilators, and imaging devices, ensuring that these devices are safe, sound, and meet regulatory standards.

What Does an Engineering Technician Do?

While engineers develop solutions to problems, engineering technicians help implement those solutions, troubleshoot problems, and generally keep projects running. Like engineers, engineering technicians are organised into specialties such as environmental, electrical, and biomedical engineering. Here are the broad duties of an engineering technician:

• Providing Technical Support: Engineering technicians provide technical assistance and support to engineers, scientists, and other professionals in fields like architecture, computer science, engineering, and physical science. They often use computer-aided design (CAD) software to generate detailed drawings and technical plans, ensuring that designs comply with specifications and industry standards.
• Testing and Prototyping: Engineering technicians construct models or prototypes of new products or systems, or make changes to existing items, and test them to assess their functionality, reliability, and safety, providing feedback to engineers.
• Troubleshooting and Repairs: Engineering technicians identify the causes of operating errors and malfunctions in manufacturing processes and equipment and carry out repairs. Using diagnostic tools and technical knowledge of the relevant area, they are responsible for identifying problems and restoring the equipment to its operational state as soon as possible.
• Maintaining Equipment and Systems: Engineering technicians perform routine maintenance on machines, tools, and systems to ensure that they operate as efficiently and safely as possible. This includes activities such as inspecting equipment, performing tests, and making repairs or adjustments as necessary.
• Data Collection and Analysis: In many engineering industries, technicians are responsible for observing data during testing or production processes, as well as analysing that data to determine whether systems are functioning satisfactorily and products meet quality standards.
• Ensuring All Systems Are Safe: Engineering technicians are responsible for ensuring that all processes, systems, and equipment comply with safety and regulatory standards. To achieve this, they conduct safety inspections and repair or modify equipment to ensure safety.
• Documenting Work and Reporting: Engineering technicians keep records of the work they perform, such as test results, maintenance activities, changes to designs or systems, and so on. They also provide regular reports to engineers and others about progress and project status, as well as any issues.
• Working with Engineering Teams: Engineering technicians work closely with engineers, project managers, and fellow technicians to complete projects. They often work in larger teams dedicated to a project’s success, providing technical skills to help meet the project’s objectives.

Average Salary Range of an Engineering Technician 

This is an essay on the salary of engineering technicians in the UK. In this essay, I will provide some examples of the typical salaries for this occupation.

Overall, the salary of an engineering technician varies depending on their experience and qualifications. In addition, their salary can also be affected by their field of specialisation.

For instance, a graduate engineer typically starts working as an engineering technician after completing their degree. They will receive an average salary of between £21,000 and £24,000 per year. However, with a few years of experience, they may increase their salary to around £28,000 per year.

Moreover, a technician with over 20 years of experience will earn a salary of £37,000 per year or more. This figure may be even higher in the oil and gas industry.

In conclusion, there are variations in the salary of engineering technicians due to numerous factors that affect their earnings. Overall, it is an attractive job for individuals seeking a high salary.

• Entry-Level Engineering Technician: Entry-level engineering technicians typically earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year. At this level, they usually gain experience and work under the supervision of more senior technicians and engineers.
• Experienced Engineering Technician: A professional engineering technician earns between £25,000 and £35,000 per year. An experienced engineer, a senior figure in the field, earns over £50,000 per year. More specialist technicians, such as those working in aerospace or biomedical engineering, can earn slightly more.
• Senior Engineering Technician: Senior engineering technicians earn between £35,000 and £45,000 per year. They often take on leadership or supervisory roles, overseeing junior technicians and ensuring the technical aspects of a project run smoothly.
• Highly Specialised or Self-Employed Technicians: Technicians whose work or specialisation is highly specialised and technically demanding can earn £45,000 or more—sometimes significantly higher in certain cases. The demand for their skills reflects their expertise, particularly for those in aerospace and biomedical engineering working at the cutting edge of technology.

Essential Skills of an Engineering Technician

A career as an engineering technician requires a mix of technical knowledge, hands-on skills, and problem-solving ability. Here are the key skills of an engineering technician:

• Technical Knowledge: Engineering technicians must be well-versed in the technical concepts specific to their field. They need to be knowledgeable about machinery, electrical systems, computer software, and industry-specific tools and equipment.
• Problem-Solving: Troubleshooting is a large part of an engineering technician’s job. Whether dealing with an in-the-field failure or a problem with a mechanism’s design, technicians need to diagnose what went wrong and develop effective solutions.
• Detail-Oriented: Since small errors can result in malfunctioning systems or pose safety risks, technicians must take extreme care in their work. Engineering technicians are detail-oriented individuals who ensure that all work is carried out according to plan and meets required standards.
• Manual Dexterity: Many engineering technicians work directly with machinery, tools, and equipment. They need good manual dexterity and should enjoy using tools and instruments. Technicians are often called upon to assemble, disassemble, test equipment, and make repairs.
• Computer Skills: Engineering technicians frequently use computer software to design components, simulate systems, or analyse data. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, programming, and data analysis is common across many engineering fields.
• Communication Skills: Technicians must be able to communicate effectively with engineers, project managers, and other team members. They need to explain technical ideas, report on project status, and collaborate with others to solve problems.
• Time Management: Many engineering projects have tight deadlines. Technicians must manage their time effectively to balance competing demands, prioritise tasks, and complete projects on schedule.
• Safety Consciousness: Safety is paramount in all areas of engineering. Technicians must adhere to safety regulations and procedures at all times, ensuring that all work is carried out in accordance with relevant industry standards and that safety risks are minimised.
• Adaptability: Engineering is a constantly evolving field, with new technologies and methods emerging regularly. Technicians must be adaptable and willing to learn new skills to stay current with industry developments.

Tips for Engineering Technician 

Here are some practical tips for those aspiring to become engineering technicians:

• Get Experience as Early as Possible: Gain hands-on experience as soon as possible through internships, apprenticeships, or part-time jobs. Early practical experience is crucial as it helps develop the skills required for success in engineering technology.
• Keep Up with Industry Trends: Engineering is a career that constantly evolves, so it is important to stay updated. Subscribe to trade journals, and attend workshops and training sessions to keep pace with emerging trends and technologies.
• Develop Your Problem-Solving Skills: A significant part of an engineering technician’s role involves diagnosing and repairing faults in equipment. Engage in do-it-yourself projects, assist friends with technical issues, and tackle challenging assignments at school or work to refine your problem-solving abilities.
• Learn Industry-Specific Software: Most branches of engineering use computer software for design, testing, and data analysis. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and other industry-specific programs will be beneficial for your career.
• Network Within Your Industry: Building a network of contacts can provide job leads and insights into the industry. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and seek out a mentor.
• Specialise: To gain an edge in the competitive engineering sector, consider specialising in areas such as renewable energy, robotics, or automotive engineering. Specialisation often leads to new opportunities and potentially higher incomes.
• Practice Communication Skills: As an engineering technician, you will need to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical colleagues and clients. Develop your ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally.
• Prioritise Safety: Safety is paramount when working with machinery, tools, or systems. Familiarise yourself with relevant safety regulations and always adhere to safety procedures.

Requirements for Engineering Technician 

Becoming an engineering technician in the UK involves an initial period of education, followed by practical training and professional certification. The steps to obtaining engineering technician qualifications include:

• GCSEs or Equivalent: To enter as an engineering technician, you will need to have achieved good grades in maths, science, and English at GCSE level. These subjects provide a solid foundation for the technical knowledge that underpins engineering.
• Level 3 Qualification: The next step is usually a Level 3 qualification in engineering or a related subject. This is typically an NVQ, BTEC, or City & Guilds diploma in engineering. Courses at this level cover topics such as electrical systems, mechanical principles, and technical drawing.
• Apprenticeship: Many engineering technicians begin their careers with an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships offer a combination of classroom learning and on-the-job training under the supervision of a qualified engineer. They usually take between two and four years to complete, and apprentices are paid a wage while training for their qualifications.
• HNC/HND or Foundation Degree: Some engineering technicians progress to higher-level study by completing a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), or Foundation Degree in Engineering. These qualifications provide a deeper understanding of engineering principles and open up career opportunities at a more senior level.
• Professional Certification: In the UK, engineering technicians can apply for professional registration as Engineering Technicians (EngTech), recognised by the Engineering Council. This certification can be held by members of recognised professional bodies, such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). It demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can enhance your career prospects.
• Work Experience: Engineering technicians often need practical experience to apply what they have learned. This experience can be gained through an apprenticeship, internship, or on-the-job training after entering the field.

How to Become an Engineering Technician

If you are interested in becoming an engineering technician, you will need to combine formal education, training, and experience. Although it is possible to enter the field without formal qualifications, pursuing a relevant course at college or university is highly recommended to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve your goal.

Here is a plan outlining the steps needed to reach this goal:

1. Study for Good GCSEs: Ensure that you achieve strong results in maths, science, and English. These subjects provide a crucial foundation for your career in engineering.
2. Obtain a Level 3 Qualification: After completing your GCSEs, pursue a Level 3 qualification in engineering or an engineering-related subject, such as a BTEC, NVQ, or City & Guilds diploma. This qualification will provide a solid grounding in engineering principles.
3. Undertake an Apprenticeship: Many engineering technicians start their careers with an apprenticeship. Apply for an engineering apprenticeship in your field of interest to gain practical experience while earning a wage. Apprenticeships typically last between two and four years.
4. Pursue Higher Education: For more advanced roles in engineering, consider studying for a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), or Foundation Degree in Engineering. These qualifications will further develop your technical expertise and knowledge.
5. Gain Practical Experience: Seek an apprenticeship or entry-level job that offers hands-on experience with real engineering tasks. Troubleshoot technical problems alongside other technicians and engineers to apply your skills in a practical setting.
6. Apply for Professional Registration: Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, you can apply for professional registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). This credential recognises your competence and professionalism, enhancing your career development.
7. Engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Engineering is an evolving field, so it is important to continue developing your skills throughout your career. Attend workshops, take advanced courses, and stay updated on industry developments.
8. Specialise: To advance further in your career, consider specialising in a specific sub-field of engineering, such as electrical, mechanical, or software engineering. Specialisation can lead to higher earnings and new opportunities.

Get Qualified as an Engineering Technician

Online Course in Electrical Engineering, Concepts in Engineering Management, Diploma in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Certification, 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Be an Engineering Technician?

If you become an engineering technician, you will engage in a hands-on, technical, and practical job. You’ll fix things, improve systems, experiment with new ideas, and work on exciting engineering projects. It’s a demanding role, but one that is both rewarding and stable. It offers competitive pay and opportunities for career advancement.

Is Being an Engineering Technician a Good Career Choice for You?

If you are enthusiastic about working with your hands, are a strong problem-solver, and have an interest in engineering, a career as an engineering technician could be an excellent fit. Engineering technicians work across various industries, from manufacturing to aerospace, and there is a significant demand for well-trained professionals in this field.

How much do engineering technicians earn in the UK?

Salaries vary based on experience, qualifications, and industry. New technicians typically earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year. Mid-level technicians generally earn between £25,000 and £45,000 annually. Specialist technicians or those working in high-demand industries can earn even higher salaries.

Which Qualifications Can Help with a Career as an Engineering Technician?

To become an engineering technician, you will need a Level 3 qualification in engineering or a related subject. This could be an NVQ, BTEC, or City & Guilds diploma. Additionally, pursuing further qualifications such as an HNC, HND, or a foundation degree can help advance your career.

Do I Need to Be an Experienced Engineering Technician to Get Started?

No previous job experience is required to start training as an engineering technician. Many technicians begin their careers through apprenticeships, where they work as engineering technicians while learning on the job and gaining qualifications.

Engineering Technician Career Outlook

The demand for engineering technicians, particularly in manufacturing, aerospace, and renewable energy, is expected to remain strong in the UK. As technology evolves, there will be an ongoing need for technicians to maintain and support new and advanced systems and equipment.

Engineering Technician Hierarchy and Progressing Within the Role

Most engineering technicians start in junior roles and advance to more senior positions as they gain experience. With additional training and qualifications, technicians can move into supervisory roles, project management, or specialisations within their engineering field.

Engineering Technician Exit Options and Opportunities

Engineering technicians have various career options. They may continue as technicians, transition into engineering or management roles, or leverage their technical skills to move into other sectors within manufacturing.