Electrical Engineering Technician ELN

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Literacy Communicate effectively in English (written reports)

Math Strong to moderate math skills needed.  Students who do not have the required level of comfort and ability with math may want to consider Fanshawe’s Pre-technology Program or Electrical Techniques Program. High school courses in Physics, Manufacturing Technology, or Computer Engineering Technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

Technology Moderate computer skills required (email, Internet, AutoCAD). Moderate use of student portal system, students need to check email and posts several times per week

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Enjoy figuring out problems
• Analytical and technical problem solving skills
• Enjoy working with tools, equipment, instruments and machinery at tasks requiring precision
• Enjoy analyzing problems and finding innovative solutions
• Enjoy taking a methodical approach to their work
• Willingness to continuously update one’s education
• Detail oriented
• The ability to work under pressure of deadlines
• Patience and persistence combined with good time management skills
• Reliable, dependable,  respectful
• Work with minimal supervision
• Good oral and written communication skills
• The ability to work with a variety of people in a team
• An aptitude for and interest in mathematics and science

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Electrical Engineering technician, Field service technician, Automation Technician, Electrical Apprentice.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Electrical utilities, automation companies, manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment, consulting firms, a wide range of manufacturing, or processing and transportation industries.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Usually work indoors in offices, shops or production departments
• May work outdoors in unsheltered environments
• Some travel may be required when installing or servicing equipment
• May be required to lift equipment weighing up to 20 kilograms
• Often work as a member of team working on a particular project

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

Service Technician

• Diagnose and locate circuit, component and equipment faults
• Inspect and test automation and electrical equipment, components and assemblies using multimeters, circuit testers, oscilloscopes, logic probes and other electronic test instruments, tools and equipment
• Adjust, align, replace or repair electrical equipment, assemblies and components following equipment manuals and schematics, and using soldering tools and other hand and power tools
• Complete work orders, test and maintenance report

Electrical Engineering Technician

• Assist in inspection, testing, adjusting and evaluation of incoming electrical, electro-mechanical and electronic components and assemblies to ensure conformance with product specifications and tolerances
• Conduct life tests (burn-ins) on assemblies and record and analyze results
• Assist in building and testing prototypes to specifications
• Carry out a limited range of technical functions in support of research in electrical engineering
• Install, operate and maintain electrical and automation equipment and systems
• Calibrate equipment and instruments according to technical manuals and written instructions
• Collect and compile operational or experimental data and assist in the preparation of estimates, schedules, budgets, specifications and reports.

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Professional Practice Exam
• Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB)
• Canadian Electrical Contractors Association (CECA)
• Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario (ECAO)
• Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates may choose to apply for an apprenticeship in Electrical Construction and Maintenance, or other related mechanical trades.
• Course work may be used as a basis of university admission or credits may transfer to a university degree at many different schools. More information online.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024