How to Become an Industrial Electronics Tech with No Degree

Skilled Trades

How to Become an Industrial Electronics Technician

When industrial systems go down, these are the people who get things running again. Industrial electronics technicians work with complex machines, sensors, and controls, and you don’t need a four-year degree to start this career.

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Industrial Electronics Technician Job Overview

Industrial electronics technicians install, test, troubleshoot, and repair the electrical and electronic systems used in factories, processing plants, and large-scale equipment. They keep sensors, control systems, and industrial machines running safely and efficiently.

This role goes by many names—I&E tech, control technician, E&I mechanic, or electronic repair technician—but it all centers around maintaining high-tech systems in high-demand environments.

Job Duties

Test, calibrate, and repair electronic equipment like PLCs, transmitters, and circuit boards
Install or upgrade electronic systems in industrial settings
Troubleshoot electrical and control system issues
Maintain and repair motors, drives, relays, and instrumentation
Interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals
Work closely with engineers, electricians, or machine operators

Salary Information

Entry Level: $41,600
Median Annual Salary: $66,680
Experienced: $100,000+

Get Trained

You don’t need a degree to become an industrial electronics technician, but this job does require technical training, hands-on learning, and a comfort level with tools, systems, and schematics.

Here’s how to get started:

Finish high school or earn a GED: This is typically required for technical programs and entry-level roles.

Complete a certificate or associate program: Community colleges and trade schools offer programs in electronics, industrial maintenance, mechatronics, or automation systems.

Learn on the job: Many technicians start as maintenance workers or electrical apprentices and grow into electronics-focused roles.

Build skills in control systems: Understanding PLCs, sensors, drives, and safety systems is key to advancing in this field.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to become an industrial electronics technician?

No. Many employers hire candidates with certificates or associate degrees, or promote from within after hands-on training.

Where do industrial electronics techs work?

You’ll find them in factories, refineries, utility plants, food production, aerospace, and any environment with automation or heavy machinery.

What’s the difference between an electrician and an industrial electronics tech?

Electricians focus on building wiring and power systems. Electronics techs focus on control systems, instruments, sensors, and automation equipment.

What kind of equipment will I work on?

You might work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), drives, relays, scales, sensors, transmitters, and motor control systems.

What are common job titles for this role?

Electronic Technician
I&E Tech (Instrument and Electrical Technician)
Control Technician
E&I Mechanic (Electrical and Instrumentation Mechanic)
I&C Tech (Instrument and Control Technician)
Scale Technician
Repair Technician
Electrical Maintenance Technician

Is this a good career path for someone who likes problem-solving?

Absolutely. This role blends hands-on work with electrical logic, diagnostics, and high-tech systems—a great fit for curious, detail-oriented thinkers.

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