What does a Test Technician do?

A test technician is an electronics and engineering professional who conducts quality control tests on a variety of products. He or she inspects parts or finished products to ensure that they were constructed according to specifications. The technician then puts the items through a battery of tests to see how effective, durable, and safe they are. Technicians work in a variety of industries and settings, but the majority of technicians work for large manufacturing plants that produce electronics, tools, or machinery.

A test technician’s daily responsibilities vary depending on the types of items he or she inspects. A consumer electronics technician, for example, might use voltmeters and other sophisticated measuring tools to ensure that electricity flows continuously and at the correct current level throughout a unit. He or she usually inspects the workmanship and overall quality of each component piece according to a set of rules. Devices that pass testing are usually packaged and ready to ship to distributors.

Large manufacturing plants that make industrial machines, airplanes, or automobiles may concentrate their testing on specific parts like drive shafts or ignition systems. They usually inspect pieces as they are put together on an assembly line and then again once the final product is completed. Test technicians may also work in groups to put cars or machinery through extensive durability and safety tests before they are approved for distribution.

While materials and products are still in the research and development stage of production, some test technicians inspect them. A test technician ensures that physical prototypes match technical schematics under the supervision of an engineer. To see if a device works properly, he or she follows a standard testing protocol. During initial product testing, notes are taken about any problems or potential hazards, which are then sent to the design engineer so that the necessary changes can be made.

Different industries and employers have different requirements for becoming a test technician. Applicants who have completed two-year engineering technician programs at vocational schools or community colleges are preferred most employers. Prior experience in assembly line production, packaging, quality control, or a related industry job can be extremely beneficial in securing entry-level employment. A test technician may be able to advance to supervisory status within his or her company with enough experience. Professional engineers can pursue continuing education to become technicians who are interested in designing and building new products.