Technician Jobs in the United States

Technician Jobs Overview

Technicians work across many different fields to ensure that everything from the Internet to electricity is working as it should. You'll find technician jobs across several industries. In the maintenance field, for instance, technicians work with their hands and tools to make installations and repairs, troubleshoot technical problems, and remove and dispose of hazardous materials. Technicians can also offer technical support to clients.

The job outlook for many technician positions is positive, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). For example, wind turbine technician positions should increase by a whopping 44% over the next decade.

The requirements you must meet to land a technician job depend on the industry and job type you're applying for. Most technicians receive training at technical schools or career institutes. Some complete associate degrees from a community college.

Many states require hazmat technicians to hold a license, especially those who remove asbestos and lead. Fiber optic technicians must complete an apprenticeship program that can last up to three years.

Read Monster's job description samples for auto mechanics and telecommunications technicians to get an idea of what employers are looking for in candidates for technician positions. This includes the following skills and qualities:

• good focus and attention to detail
• advanced math skills
• mechanical and technical skills
• good organization and time-management skills
• exceptional communication and customer service
• critical-thinking skills
• troubleshooting skills
• physical and mental stamina

Salaries for Technician Jobs

The amount of money you can expect to earn from a technician job varies by role type. For example, alarm technicians in the U.S. typically earn $22.55 per hour within a range from $17.18 to $28.64, while telecommunications network technicians earn a median yearly salary of $47,375 within a range from $37,725 to $65,583.

To find out how much you're likely to earn, enter your job title and location into Monster's Salary Tools. If you don't feel that your job pays enough, don't worry. We’ll show you where your job pays the most, as well as potential next steps in your career that can increase your paycheck.

How to Find the Technician Job That Fits You

When hunting for the perfect technician job, be thorough. Use the following questions to guide you:

• What are my passions? Think about what excites you the most. Do you love troubleshooting? Maybe working hands-on with specific equipment. Identifying your passions can make your job more fulfilling.
• What are my top skills? Reflect on your strengths. Are you a wizard at certain software? Do you have a knack for diagnosing problems quickly?
• What’s my ideal work environment? For example, consider whether you prefer working solo or as a part of a team, indoors or outdoors, in a startup or an established corporate setting.
• What’s non-negotiable for me? Identify your deal-breakers. Think about salary, work hours, location, and company culture.

Thoroughly Review the Job Descriptions

Technician job descriptions detail exactly what companies are seeking. Reflect upon the following to find those that fit your personal and professional aspirations:

• Do the job responsibilities align with what I want to do daily?
• Does the commute and the geographic area align with where I’d like to live or work?
• Am I qualified for the job or willing to obtain any necessary training?

Research the Employer

Look up company reviews and check out their history. Is the company stable? Do they offer growth opportunities? Is the industry growing? These factors can influence your professional development and long-term job security. Consider the company culture and the work environment it offers. A good fit can make all the difference in job satisfaction.

How to Apply to Technician Jobs

Eager to dive into the job market and nail that dream role? Fantastic! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’re here with tips to help you simplify the process of applying for technician jobs.

Tailor Your Resume to the Technician Job

No matter which field you work in, employers want to ensure they hire the best candidates to fill technician jobs. Your resume is one of the first things hiring managers see when you apply. Follow these pointers to maximize your results:

• List your skills and qualifications at the top of your resume. These could be, for example, repairing machinery, using specific tools and software, or diagnosing technical issues.
• If you obtained certifications in your field, flaunt them! They can give you an edge over competitors.
• Quantify your achievements. For example, instead of just saying you repaired machinery, mention how many you fixed in a month or the downtime you reduced.
• Use an easy-to-read format (check out our resume samples to get a better idea of what it should look like).
• To ensure your application shines as bright as your technical skills, use Monster’s Professional Resume Writing Services.

Write a Cover Letter That Resonates

Cover letters aren't always required for technician positions, but they do help. At Monster, we encourage you to always include a cover letter with your resume. It's a great way to introduce yourself and show your passion for the job. If you're not sure where to start, simply follow the steps laid out in our writing tips and cover letter samples.

Send Your Application via Monster

Monster is a treasure trove of opportunities. Navigate it like a pro with these tips:

• Join Monster and complete your profile for free to get your resume seen by recruiters.
• Set up custom job notifications and we’ll send new technician jobs right to your inbox.
• Navigate the job opportunities on this page or search for other roles on Monster’s job board.
• Update your resume and cover letter and click on Apply to begin the easy application process.

How to Follow Up on Your Job Applications

After sending a job application, try nudging the odds in your favor with a well-timed and crafted follow-up. About a week after sending your application, reach out to politely inquire about the next step. Keep your message concise and professional and address it to the company’s hiring manager or HR department. In most situations, sending an email is best because it’s less intrusive and gives the receiver time to respond.

Interviewing Tips for Technician Jobs

Ready to step into the spotlight and shine in your job interview? The process might seem a bit daunting but with the right preparation and mindset, you’re all set to impress. Technicians are problem solvers by nature and a job interview is just another puzzle to master.

Preparing for Your Job Interview

Know your stuff and review any technical terms, equipment, or processes pertinent to your field. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience. An interviewer will likely want to know more about:

• Your credentials and work history.
• Your ability to solve problems, with examples from your own work.
• Tools and equipment you're experienced with.

Another thing you should do to prepare for your job interview is familiarize yourself with the company’s services, culture, and recent news. This’ll help you tailor your answers and come up with questions to ask your interviewer.

Common Job Interview Questions for Technicians

Here are a few common interview questions for technicians that you can use to practice:

• What tools and equipment are you most familiar with?
• How do you prioritize tasks during a high-pressure situation?
• How do you handle situations where you’re unfamiliar with a specific machine or system?
• Describe a time when you had to explain a complex technical issue to someone without a technical background.
• Where do you see yourself in the next five years in this field?

Following Up After Your Job Interview

A post-interview follow-up can be the cherry on top of a positive impression. Send a brief thank you email within 24 to 48 hours post-interview to express your gratitude for the interview.

Be sure to also mention something said during the interview that you found interesting about the job or company. If after a week, or a provided timeline, you don’t hear back, send another message to politely ask for updates.

What to Do When You Get an Offer for a Technician Job

So, your skills and experience have caught some eyes and the job offers are rolling in. Now it’s time for you to navigate through these opportunities and make the best decision for your career. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Respond promptly to show your good manners and professionalism. You don’t need to give an immediate answer, but at least send a note expressing gratitude and asking for a bit of time to consider the offer.
2. Ask questions to obtain all the information you need to make an informed decision. You can ask about job responsibilities, training opportunities, or even specific tools and equipment you’ll work with.
3. Ensure you are getting what you are worth by researching typical salaries and benefits for your technician role in the area. Have a clear idea of your value and, if needed, respectfully approach negotiation.
4. Once you’ve decided, communicate your decision. Whether your choice is accepting or declining the offer, always express gratitude to leave doors open for future opportunities or interactions.

Technician Jobs: Career Paths to Explore

Entering the technician field is like opening a treasure box full of opportunities. The paths before you are diverse, intriguing, and brimming with potential. Here are some popular careers for technicians:

• Automotive technician mechanic: Specializes in repair, maintenance, or even particular brands or types of vehicles.
• HVAC technician: Specializes in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, ensuring indoor comfort for homes and businesses.
• IT technician: Dives into the digital domain by troubleshooting computer issues, managing networks, or offering software support.
• Medical laboratory technician: Works behind the scenes in healthcare, analyzing samples and playing a crucial role in patient diagnoses and treatment.
• Telecommunications technician: Keeps the world connected by installing, maintaining, and repairing communication lines, from fiber optics to telephony.

Similar Occupations

Here are a few other maintenance jobs we suggest you also check out:

• auto detailer
• electrical inspector
• mechanic