have a high school diploma or GED

complete at least an associate degree in engineering technology

have practical, hands-on skills

have good math skills

be creative

May work overtime when trying to meet a deadline.

May travel to construction sites. This is more likely for civil engineering technicians.

May work day, evening, or night shifts in manufacturing companies.

ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS will:

read blueprints or get directions from their supervisors about what to build.

draw or sketch what products will look like so that contractors or other staff can build the prototypes.

estimate how much projects cost and the amount of time it will take to build them.

ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS frequently:

help engineers conduct research; while others assist with production and inspection.

duties are more hands-on and limited in scope than those of engineers.

assemble prototypes, which are versions of products that will be tested and modified

It is important that ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS be able to:

fully complete and be exact in their work. Errors could seriously endanger workers or users of products