Test technicians perform quality control tests on various products, inspecting parts and finished products for effectiveness, durability, and safety. They work in various industries, using different tools and protocols to ensure quality. Requirements vary, but most prefer candidates with engineering technician programs or related experience.
A test technician is an electronics and engineering specialist who performs quality control tests on various types of products. He or she carefully inspects parts or finished products to ensure they were built to specification. The technician puts the items through a series of tests to determine their effectiveness, durability, and safety. Technicians work in a variety of industries and settings, but most professionals are employed in large factories that produce electronics, tools or machines.
A test technician’s day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on the types of items he or she inspects. A technician working for a consumer electronics company, for example, might use voltmeters and other sophisticated measuring tools to ensure that electricity is flowing uninterruptedly and at the correct current level through a unit. He or she typically follows an established protocol for inspecting the finish and overall quality of each component part. Devices that pass the test are usually ready to be packaged and shipped to distributors.
Technicians in large factories that produce industrial machines, airplanes or automobiles can focus their tests on specific parts, such as driveshafts or ignition systems. They often inspect parts along an assembly line as they are assembled and again when the final product is built. In addition, test technicians can work in teams to put cars or machines through extensive durability and safety runs before they can be approved for distribution.
Some test technicians inspect materials and products while they are still in the research and development phase of production. Under the supervision of an engineer, a test technician ensures that the physical prototypes match the technical schematics. He or she follows standard testing protocol to verify that a device works properly. Notes are made of any problems or potential dangers during initial product testing and sent to the design engineer so that appropriate changes can be made.
Requirements to become a test technician can vary between different industries and employers. Most companies prefer to hire candidates who have completed two-year engineering technician programs at vocational schools or community colleges. Previous experience in assembly line production, packaging, quality control or a related job in the industry can be very helpful in finding entry-level work. With continued experience, a test technician can become a supervisor within your company. Technicians interested in designing and building new products can pursue continuing education to become professional engineers.
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