Field Service Technician: Duties & How To Become One

If you’re searching for field service technician jobs near me, or just curious what this career involves, you’re in the right place. A field service technician is a hands-on professional who installs, maintains, and repairs equipment directly at customer sites — from HVAC systems and IT networks to manufacturing machinery.

These technicians are vital to keeping industries running smoothly. They troubleshoot complex systems, perform preventive maintenance, and make sure customers’ operations never skip a beat.

This guide will cover:

• What a field service technician does and where they work
• Salary, career growth, and average pay
• Education, certifications, and training programs
• Tools, software, and skills used on the job
• Types of field service roles and their differences
• FAQs for people starting their technician career

Learn how to launch your service career in our How to Start a Construction Company guide.

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What Is a Field Service Technician?

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A field service technician job description typically includes installing, inspecting, and repairing technical systems at client locations. These professionals travel to customer sites rather than working from one facility — a major draw for people who like independence and variety.

They work across industries including:

• Manufacturing: maintaining CNC machinery and robotics
• IT and communications: managing routers, servers, and office networks
• HVAC and energy: servicing heating and cooling systems
• Healthcare and lab environments: maintaining sensitive diagnostic equipment

Field service technicians combine technical expertise with customer service, solving real problems on-site while representing their company professionally.

What Does a Field Service Technician Do?

Common Job Duties and Responsibilities

Their day-to-day work includes:

• Installing, testing, and calibrating equipment
• Performing repairs and routine maintenance
• Using diagnostic tools to troubleshoot faults
• Maintaining service logs and updating digital work orders
• Communicating clearly with clients about repairs and timelines

If you’re looking for field service technician jobs, companies like Pacific Office Automation and national service providers frequently hire entry-level field service technicians and offer full on-the-job training.

Tools and Equipment Used on the Job

Technicians use a mix of manual tools and digital field service technician software to manage their workload. From multimeters and screwdrivers to scheduling apps and remote diagnostic tools, software plays a key role in job efficiency.

Pro Tip: Improve workflow and accuracy with Invoice Fly’s Time Tracking Software, perfect for field teams logging hours and job details on-site.

Work Conditions and Typical Schedule

Expect a mix of office coordination and fieldwork — often in different locations each day. Technicians may work full-time with flexible hours, emergency callouts, or overnight shifts. The upside is, however, that this career offers high autonomy, problem-solving, and variety.

Field Service Technician Salary & Career Outlook

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How Much Does a Field Service Technician Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average field service technician pay is around $58,000 per year. Entry-level techs typically earn $40,000–$48,000, while highly skilled or specialised technicians can earn $85,000+ annually.

At Pacific Office Automation, for instance, entry-level field service technician pay starts at roughly $22–$25 per hour, depending on location and experience.

Factors That Affect Pay

Your income depends on:

• Location: States like California, Texas, and New York offer higher wages.
• Experience: Senior technicians can take on training or management roles.
• Certifications: The right credentials directly impact pay.
• Company type: Larger firms or niche service providers tend to pay more.
  

Career Outlook

The job outlook for field service technicians is steady and growing, especially as industries rely more on connected equipment and smart systems. Automation still requires human expertise for installation, updates, and repairs, ensuring job security for years to come.

For deeper insights into earning potential, check our guides on HVAC Technician Job Description and Electrical Technician Careers.

How To Become a Field Service Technician

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Education and Field Service Technician Training

While a college degree isn’t required, most employers prefer candidates with technical diplomas or training programs in electronics, mechanical systems, or computer networking.

Trade schools and community colleges offer hands-on field service technician training courses that cover diagnostics, electrical safety, and system repair.

Field Service Technician Certification

Getting certified helps you stand out in the job market. Some of the most recognised field service technician certifications include:

• CompTIA A+ – for IT and hardware troubleshooting
  
• EPA Section 608 – for HVAC technicians
  
• CNC Maintenance Certification – for industrial machinery
  
• OSHA 10 or 30-hour training – for jobsite safety
  

Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Learning

Many start through apprenticeships or entry-level field service technician roles, gaining experience from senior techs while earning a steady income.

For more about training and qualifications, see our guides on Service Business Definition and Business Structure for Service Professionals.

Skills and Soft Qualities

Top field technicians share these traits:

• Technical curiosity and mechanical aptitude
• Clear communication and customer service
• Adaptability and self-motivation
• Familiarity with digital scheduling, billing, and diagnostic tools

Pro Tip: If you’re applying for your first job, use technician resume samples, resume examples, or resume template resources to stand out. Highlight relevant training programs and certifications clearly.

Types of Field Service Technicians

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IT Field Service Technician

Specialises in computer systems, servers, and networking equipment. These technicians troubleshoot IT hardware and software on-site, ensuring minimal downtime.

CNC Field Service Technician

A CNC field service technician installs, repairs, and calibrates computer-controlled manufacturing machines. They’re in high demand across the manufacturing and aerospace industries.

Electrical and HVAC Field Service Technician

Works on wiring, control panels, and climate systems. Often requires certifications like EPA 608 or state electrical licenses.

You can explore related roles in our HVAC Technician Job Description article.

Challenges and Rewards of the Job

Fieldwork can be demanding so long hours, physical activity, and travel are part of the package. But it’s also deeply rewarding. You’ll see tangible results, gain customer trust, and enjoy the independence many office jobs lack.

Many technicians eventually move into service management, operations, or self-employment, using their experience to start their own company. If that’s your goal, our How to Write an Invoice and Invoicing Mistakes to Avoid guides will help you handle the business side smoothly.

Ready To Start Your Field Service Technician Career?

A field service technician career combines freedom, problem-solving, and technical skill. Whether you’re maintaining HVAC systems, calibrating CNC machines, or installing IT networks, you’ll play a crucial role in keeping businesses operational.

With consistent demand, strong pay, and clear training paths, it’s an excellent time to explore field service technician jobs in your area.Manage estimates, quotes, and invoices with Invoice Maker — built for technicians who want to save time and get paid faster.

Get Started with Invoice Fly’s Software

Invoice Fly is a smart, fast, and easy-to-use invoicing software designed for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners. Create and send invoices, track payments, and manage your business — all in one place.

Get Started Now