Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

The occupation "Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians" has an automation risk of 44.3%, which is based on a base risk of 45.0%. This level of risk reflects that nearly half of the routine, manual, and procedural tasks in this job can potentially be automated with current and emerging technologies. A significant driver of automation risk comes from the nature of many core responsibilities in this occupation, which often involve standardized processes that can be replicated by machines or automated systems. For example, tasks such as modifying, maintaining, or repairing electronics equipment, replacing defective components using hand tools and precision instruments, and setting up or operating specialized test equipment are largely procedural. Machines and automated diagnostic systems are increasingly capable of performing these tasks efficiently because they involve repetitive actions, clearly defined steps, and the ability to manage and process large volumes of data or components with high consistency. Despite this moderate risk, a notable portion of the job remains resistant to automation due to the complexity, creativity, and problem-solving required in certain responsibilities. Tasks that exhibit strong resistance to automation include reviewing, developing, or preparing maintenance standards, which necessitate judgment and adaptation to unique equipment or regulatory requirements. Participation in the development or testing of electrical aspects of new green technologies also requires innovative thinking and the ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary teams—a realm where human expertise still vastly outpaces current AI capacities. Similarly, constructing and evaluating advanced components for consumer electronics, such as fuel cells and energy-efficient chargers, calls for creative engineering solutions and a deep understanding of emerging materials and design trends, both of which are not easily codified into algorithms or robotic functions. The main bottleneck skills that protect these resistant tasks from automation are related to originality, which stands at an assessed value of 3.0% to 3.3% within this occupation. Originality is crucial for jobs that demand generating new ideas, innovative solutions, and adaptive thinking, particularly in the development and optimization of new technologies and systems. For electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians, being able to devise novel approaches to maintenance standards, contribute to cutting-edge green technology initiatives, and construct inventive power-saving devices sets humans apart from automated systems. As such, while automation is likely to impact repetitive technical tasks, roles and responsibilities that demand higher-order thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration will continue to be safeguarded, ensuring a strong continuing demand for skilled professionals in this field.