Summary

Technician vs. Engineer Roles

• Technician:

  • A simpler way of life with less stress and fewer management tasks.
  • Limited career progression and impact on changes at work.
  • Lower pay than engineers, but they usually make more than engineers in the long run in certain industries such as energy.
  • Opportunity for overtime pay for hourly workers.
  • hands-on work that some individuals prefer over desk jobs.
  • Job variety depending on the industry.

• Engineer:

  • Higher pay and better advancement opportunities compared to technicians.
  • Involves more design and analysis work.
  • Requires at least a bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field.
  • Involves less hands-on work and more focus on planning and decision-making.

Pros and Cons of Each Role

Technician:

• Pros:
  • Job can be less stressful and more hands-on.
  • Potential for overtime pay.
• Cons:
  • Limited career growth potential.
  • Lower pay compared to engineering roles.

Engineer:

• Pros:
  • Higher pay and better advancement opportunities.
  • Involves design, analysis, and decision-making.
• Cons:
  • Less hands-on work and more desk-oriented tasks.
  • Higher pressure and stress in some engineering roles.

Career Advice

• Transition to Engineering:

  • Start as a technician for experience, but keep applying for engineering positions.
  • Continue networking and upskilling for engineering roles.
  • Consider roles in MEP in construction for potential career growth.

• Job Searching:

  • Update resume with current role.
  • Apply for entry-level engineering roles while gaining experience.
  • Consider job hopping to advance your engineering career.

• Professional Growth:

  • Focus on practical skills gained from technician roles.
  • Apply engineering knowledge to technician tasks for more value.
  • Seek internal transfer opportunities for engineering roles within the same company.

This summary provides insights into the roles of technicians and engineers, highlighting the pros and cons of each, along with career advice for transitioning from a technician to an engineer. It also covers the importance of practical experience in technician roles and the potential for growth and advancement in engineering careers.