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Universities
Electrical Engineering Technician
Do you want to find a simple job, that pays well, where you work with your hands?
It's right here.
Electrical and electronic engineering technicians, commonly known as instrumentation and electrical (I&E) technicians, are a must-have when it comes to the monitoring and optimization of complex systems. They install, maintain, and repair automated equipment vital to functioning of manufacturing and industrial plants as well as for pipeline systems and power generation companies and many other high tech operations. Electrical and electronic engineering technicians are in constant demand in the Gulf Coast region.
The demand for electrical and electronic technicians translates into outstanding career opportunities for individuals entering into the workforce as well as individuals with an electronic background looking to change careers.
There are expected to be over 6,000 Electrical & Electronic Engineering Technicians in the Gulf Coast region by 2028 because of the field's 15 percent growth rate!
Estimates show an annual job opening of 367 in the Gulf Coast region.
Electrical & Electronic Engineering Technicians earn an median annual salary of nearly $65,000 per year in the Gulf Coast Region!
Does this career appeal to you?
These skills, interests, and knowledge areas are recommended for a career as an I&E technician. The numbers below describe the relative importance of each knowledge/skill area to the occupation.
81.2% |
Computers & Electronics
Knowing both operations and basic programming of computers, hardware, software and other electronic equipment
81.2% |
Engineering & Technology
Knowing practical applications of engineering sciences and applying them to the production of various technologies for consumption and services
77.5% |
Problem Sensitivty & Reasoning
The ability to pinpoint and evaluate a current or future problem, finding its source, causation, and a potential solution.
*Source: Texas Career Check
Making almost $60,000 per year on average in the Gulf Coast, there are so many industries that I&E Technicians work in!
Pathway to Becoming an I&E Technician
High School Endorsement: STEM
Take math and science classes in high school as well as electives along the STEM endorsement track in order to prepare to enter a career into instrumentation and electronic technology.
In addition to a high school diploma or a GED, employers generally require an associate's degree in instrumentation technology, industrial technology, and industrial control or related. As machinery gets more and more complex, it is becoming increasingly difficult to enter this field without formal training. Electrical and electronics engineering technicians are commonly required to be able to read schematics and blueprints, calibrate instruments, and perform component level troubleshooting. In the Gulf Coast region, there are two options for obtaining training:
- Training programs at postsecondary vocational/technical schools
- Training programs at community colleges
High schools may also offer related programs although they vary in scope. High school programs are an asset offering an introduction to the skills of the trade. Individuals completing related high school training are better prepared for successful completion of more intensive career preparation at vocational schools and community colleges.
License and Certification Requirements
Most employers require NCCER instrument technician certification or a combined industrial maintenance electrical and instruments technician certification. Additional information can be obtained at the National Center for Construction Education and Research.
Many positions involve electrical work and require a license. Types of licenses vary from an apprentice to a master electrician.
Gulf Coast Region Electrical Engineering Technician Programs
Community Colleges
Technical Colleges
- Texas State Technical College (Waco and Marshall campuses)
Major Employers in the Gulf Coast Region
- Anheuser-Busch Inc
- Baker Hughes
- Baker Oil Tools
- BASF
- BP Exploration
- Chevron Corporation
- ConocoPhillips
- Dow Chemical
- Dresser-Rand
- Fluor Corp.
- Shell
If you have questions about our Industry/Occupation Profiles or are an organization in the Gulf Coast Region, please contact webmaster@wrksolutions.com.
*Includes the following counties: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Walker, Waller, and Wharton. |