Top 8 service technician jobs and who’s hiring

Let's talk about service technicians — the unsung heroes who keep our world running smoothly. Picture this: You're at a concert and the sound system goes haywire. Or you're withdrawing cash from an ATM that suddenly freezes. Maybe your car's engine light won't stop blinking. Who you gonna call? Service technicians!

Service technicians (or maintenance technicians) are the wizards who diagnose, fix, and maintain an array of equipment and systems. They're like the Swiss Army knives of the workforce — versatile, reliable, and absolutely essential. There's a constant churn for this job type, with an estimated 73,300 job openings popping up each year over the past decade.

So, whether you're just starting to explore potential careers or are a job seeker looking for a change, buckle up as we dive into the top eight service technician roles. We'll also give you the lowdown on who's hiring and what you'll need to stand out from the crowd.

1. Commercial refrigeration service technician

Ever wondered who keeps those ice creams perfectly frozen at the grocery store, or how restaurants keep their ingredients fresh? Meet the commercial refrigeration service technician. These experts install, maintain, and repair the commercial refrigeration systems these businesses rely on daily.

In this role, understanding the principles of HVAC systems is a crucial starting point, as these concepts lay the foundation for refrigeration. That said, commercial refrigeration falls into the more specialized category of low-temperature refrigeration, requiring deeper expertise than an HVAC service technician. Beginning a career in this field with HVAC training can pave the way to mastering the nuances of commercial refrigeration systems.

Average salary: $52,611 per year

Education requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
Certification in HVAC or refrigeration from a technical or trade school

Skills and experience needed:

Understanding of refrigeration systems
Troubleshooting skills
Good customer service skills
Valid driver's license and a clean driving record
Ability to interpret and apply warranties

2. Information technology (IT) service technician

The world of IT service technicians is a playground for tech enthusiasts who love problem-solving. IT service technicians are the digital world's superheroes, swooping in to diagnose and resolve both hardware and software issues.

This career offers flexibility, with employment types including full-time, part-time, and contract options. Depending on the job description and company needs, it also offers the option of in-person or remote work. The hard skills required include a robust understanding of various technologies, hardware, and software troubleshooting.

Effective communication, patience, and an aptitude for customer service are essential as you interact with users who might not share your tech-savvy language. If your ideal job includes flexing your tech muscles to save the digital day, being an IT service technician could be your perfect match.

Average salary: $56,446 a year

Education requirements:

Certification or associate degree in IT or a related field

Skills and experience needed:

Knowledge of computer hardware and software
Troubleshooting skills
Good communication skills
Experience with automation systems

3. Heavy equipment mechanic

Do you thrive on hard work, have a gift for tinkering with mechanical systems, and love the smell of diesel in the morning? If so, you might find your calling as a heavy equipment mechanic. This role is all about rolling up your sleeves and diving into the intricate world of large machinery that powers industries like construction and farming.

This isn't your typical 9-to-5 office gig. As a heavy equipment mechanic, you'll often be on-site, working alongside team members. Your office might be a construction site one day and a sprawling farm the next. If you're not afraid to get your hands dirty and enjoy a dynamic, ever-changing work environment, the role of a heavy equipment mechanic might be your career sweet spot.

Median salary: $53,770 per year

Education requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
Vocational training or an apprenticeship in heavy equipment repair (preferred)

Skills and experience needed:

Knowledge of hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems
Troubleshooting skills
Physical strength and stamina
Valid driver's license

4. Biomedical service specialist

Do you geek out on tech and have a strong passion for health care? If so, the role of a biomedical service specialist might be your dream job. These professionals ensure life-saving medical equipment — from patient monitors to MRI machines — is up and running when needed most.

While being a biomedical service specialist has its fair share of rewards, it's not all rainbows and lab coats. This hands-on role can also mean being on call at odd hours and facing potential exposure to health care-associated risks. However, this role has no shortage of job postings in bustling health care hubs like Chicago, Boston, Seattle, San Antonio, and many other cities across the U.S.

Average salary: $62,075 per year

Education requirements:

Associate or bachelor's degree in biomedical technology or related field

Skills and experience needed:

Knowledge of medical equipment and systems
Troubleshooting and repair skills
Attention to detail

5. Broadband maintenance technician

Internet. We love it. We depend on it. And broadband maintenance technicians are the ones who make it happen. They install, maintain, and troubleshoot broadband systems to keep us connected and make it possible to Google the name of that one song you can’t remember. As a broadband maintenance technician, you'll participate in on-ground field service work.

Average salary: $46,447 per year

Education requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
Technical training or certification in network systems (preferred)

Skills and experience needed:

Knowledge of network systems and broadband technology
Troubleshooting
Customer service

6. Window and door service technician

As a window and door service technician, you'll be involved in the practical side of home and commercial property improvement. You'll install, repair, and replace windows and doors, ensuring each fits properly and functions smoothly.

This is an excellent entry-level field service technician job if you’d like to start right away. Job alerts can update you about opportunities in local family-owned businesses and large, established companies.

Average salary: $43,156 per year

Education requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
Training in carpentry or a related field (preferred)

Skills and experience needed:

Experience with power and hand tools
Knowledge of window and door installation techniques
Communication
Customer service skills

7. Automotive technician

As an automotive technician, your office is the garage, your colleagues are cars (and some people), and your job function is to keep vehicles running smoothly. This role is perfect if you love cars and working with your hands.

Your work environment might vary — technicians can work in bustling dealerships, independent auto repair shops, or directly for vehicle manufacturers. Regardless of the location, a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record are typically necessary.

Your technical knowledge of automotive systems, proficiency with diagnostic tools, and understanding of preventative maintenance techniques are your key hard skills. In terms of soft skills, your knack for quick problem-solving, keen attention to detail, and a constant drive to learn more about cars can turbo-boost you into this role.

Median salary: $46,880 per year

Education requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
Vocational or post-secondary training in automotive service technology
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications (or a desire to obtain them)

Skills and experience needed:

Knowledge of automotive systems
Ability to use diagnostic tools

8. Packaging machine service technician

Welcome to the frontline of the manufacturing world. As a packaging machine service technician, you're the maestro of machinery, ensuring packaging operations run smoothly and efficiently.

In terms of hard skills, you must be a whiz with packaging machinery and automation systems and have a knack for troubleshooting mechanical puzzles. On the flip side, soft skills are just as crucial. You must be a problem-solver, have an eye for detail, and stay cool under the pressure of a fast-paced work environment.

Average salary: $35,973 per year

Education requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
Technical training in machinery maintenance or a related field (preferred)

Skills and experience needed:

Understanding of packaging machinery and automation systems
Ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues
Problem-solving

Which companies are hiring service technicians on Handshake?

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Top 8 service technician jobs and who’s hiring