Test Technician

Career Guide

A Test Technician supports product quality and reliability by setting up test equipment, running test procedures, collecting results, and reporting issues. The role is common in manufacturing, electronics, medical devices, automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment environments.

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Key Responsibilities

Set up and calibrate test equipment and test fixtures
Run functional tests and reliability tests using documented procedures
Record test results accurately and maintain clear test logs
Identify failures and isolate likely causes using basic troubleshooting
Report defects and unusual results to engineers and supervisors
Perform simple repairs and rework tasks under guidance
Follow safety rules and handle equipment and materials safely
Support continuous improvement by suggesting process and test updates
Maintain tools, parts, and work areas in a clean and organized state
Assist with incoming inspection and final quality checks as needed

Top Skills for Success

Attention to Detail

Troubleshooting

Clear Written Communication

Basic Electrical Safety

Test Equipment Operation

Calibration Basics

Soldering

Reading Technical Drawings

Quality Inspection

Data Recording Accuracy

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Senior Test Technician

Test Engineering Technician

Quality Technician

Manufacturing Technician

Field Service Technician

Transition Opportunities

Test Engineer

Quality Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

Reliability Engineer

Production Supervisor

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Root Cause AnalysisTest Procedure WritingMeasurement FundamentalsBasic ProgrammingDocumentation DisciplineControl Plan AwarenessLean Manufacturing Basics

Development SuggestionsBuild a simple portfolio of test logs, failure summaries, and updated procedures. Ask to shadow engineers during failure investigations. Practice writing clear step by step test instructions. Strengthen measurement basics and learn one scripting tool used on your team.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 38,000 to 52,000

Mid LevelUSD 52,000 to 70,000

Senior LevelUSD 70,000 to 92,000

Growth Trend

Steady demand, supported by ongoing manufacturing needs, automation upgrades, and higher quality expectations in regulated industries.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

TeslaGeneral MotorsFordBoeingLockheed MartinNorthrop GrummanMedtronicJohnson and JohnsonSiemensHoneywell

Industry Sectors

Electronics ManufacturingMedical DevicesAutomotiveAerospace and DefenseIndustrial EquipmentConsumer HardwareEnergy EquipmentTelecommunications Equipment

Recommended Next Steps

Create a one page summary of the test equipment you can run independently

Practice structured troubleshooting using a consistent checklist approach

Volunteer to update one test procedure for clarity and completeness

Request training on calibration and measurement fundamentals

Learn one common tool used in your environment such as a spreadsheet template or a basic scripting workflow

Track and share a monthly quality metric you influence, such as first pass yield or retest rate

Pursue an entry level credential aligned to your industry such as IPC training for electronics or basic quality training