How to become a Technician

Technicians are professionals who perform specialist tasks within their field, usually related to equipment and technology operation and maintenance. There are Technicians in almost every industry, so their duties and functions can vary accordingly.

If you’re practical and great at paying attention to details, love to solve problems, and want a job with lots of variety, then becoming a Technician could be perfect for you.

If you have these skills, you could make a great Technician

Dexterous (great with your hands) with strong maths and mechanical skills
Excellent customer service focus and great communication skills
Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently
Willing to learn with a positive “can-do” attitude
Great attention to detail and problem solving skills

What tasks can I expect to do?

Technicians’ duties can vary depending on the industry you choose and the specific job you’re hired to do, but here are some common tasks you can expect:

Installing and maintaining systems and equipment, both physical and digital
Operating complex and specialised equipment
Performing tests and providing feedback
Diagnosing and repairing faults and defects
Providing support and assistance to users
Managing networking, security, and updates to digital systems

Where do Technicians work?

Technicians can work in offices, workshops, laboratories, in classrooms, or out in the field. For some roles you could even find yourself working remotely, particularly when dealing with IT systems.

What kind of lifestyle can I expect as a Technician?

Many Technicians work standard hours, though depending on the job you may need to respond to emergency call-outs and urgent repairs any time of the day or night. Some roles may even include opportunities for travel or remote work.

Most Technicians can expect to earn an average salary throughout their career.

You will need to be prepared to think on your feet and diagnose and fix problems quickly, which can be stressful at times.

How to become a Technician

Depending on the industry you plan to enter, the qualifications that you need can vary. Some roles may require no specific qualifications, but a deep understanding of your chosen industry or technology instead.

Step 1 – Finish high school with a focus on English and Maths.

Step 2 – Decide which industry you’re most passionate about and explore Technician roles within that industry.

Step 3 – Find out if you need to complete a qualification or undergo training. Vocational qualifications can provide you with the skills and knowledge required to work as a Technician in most industries. A bachelor’s degree may be required in some fields, such as Health or STEM.

Step 4 – Check whether there are any other additional requirements for the job, for example: