Field Service Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced technology, the demand for Field Service Engineers is at an all-time high.

As technology continues to evolve, the need for skilled professionals capable of installing, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery on-site has become crucial.

But what does a Field Service Engineer actually do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the job profile for the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuts and bolts of field engineering,

You’re at the right spot.

Today, we are presenting a customizable Field Service Engineer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Field Service Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Field Service Engineers are responsible for the maintenance and repair of various technical equipment or products, at client or customer locations.

They are often the direct link between the company and customers, providing necessary technical expertise and services to ensure products are working correctly and efficiently.

Field Service Engineers can have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Travel to customer locations to install, repair or maintain equipment
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment and systems
• Analyze and troubleshoot technical issues
• Provide training and support to customers on how to operate and maintain equipment
• Document service and installation actions by completing forms, reports, logs and records
• Manage customer satisfaction through effectively meeting customer needs and ensuring compliance with company and regulatory standards
• Ensure the safe use of equipment by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
• Keep technical knowledge updated by attending educational workshops, reviewing publications and participating in professional societies
• Collaborate with technical teams and share information across the organization
• Maintain parts inventory and order any necessary parts or supplies

 

Field Service Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Field Service Engineer to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing our various products and equipment directly at customer’s sites.

Field Service Engineer responsibilities include diagnosing technical problems, performing effective repairs, and providing regular service maintenance.

They should be able to communicate and explain complex technical information to non-technical customers in an understandable way.

The role of the Field Service Engineer is to ensure customer satisfaction through the high-quality service and efficient problem-solving skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform on-site installation of equipment and products
• Perform on-site preventive maintenance, repair, and calibration
• Diagnose technical problems and provide suitable solutions
• Test system performance and provide reports
• Communicate with the engineering team to propose improvements and modifications
• Train customers on system operations
• Maintain positive relationships with customers for future services
• Document service and installation actions by completing forms, reports, logs, and records
• Comply with company safety rules and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Field Service Engineer or similar role
• Experience with diagnostic, test, and repair processes
• Strong understanding of technical aspects of machinery, hardware, and tools
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Good communication skills and the ability to explain technical details to a non-technical audience
• Willingness to travel extensively
• BS degree in Engineering, preferably in a mechanical or electrical field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Travel allowances

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Field Service Engineer
• Work Environment: Field-based role with extensive travel to customer’s sites. Office work for reporting and documentation.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Service Manager or Head of Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Field Service Engineer Do?

Field Service Engineers are typically employed by manufacturing or service companies that sell and provide technical products or services.

They can also work as independent contractors.

They are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing various types of machinery and equipment at client sites.

They perform routine services on machinery to prevent future breakdowns and ensure optimal performance.

Their duties often include troubleshooting equipment problems, replacing or repairing defective parts, conducting performance tests, and providing customers with operational instructions.

Field Service Engineers also work in close coordination with a company’s customer service and technical support departments.

They provide important feedback regarding customer concerns, potential improvements, and the overall performance of the equipment they service.

They play a crucial role in customer satisfaction as they are often the point of contact for customers experiencing technical difficulties.

They need to be able to diagnose and fix issues quickly and efficiently to minimize downtime and keep the customer’s operations running smoothly.

 

Field Service Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A successful Field Service Engineer should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Technical knowledge in relation to the specific field they are working in, such as IT or electronics, to assess, install, and repair systems and equipment.
• Problem-solving skills to analyze issues and develop solutions for customers’ unique problems, sometimes under high-stress circumstances.
• Interpersonal skills to work with diverse clients and teams, providing clear communication, and building lasting relationships.
• Organization and time management skills to manage a variety of tasks and responsibilities simultaneously and efficiently, often on a tight schedule.
• Communication skills to effectively explain complex technical issues to non-technical clients, and to relay information to a team or manager.
• Physical abilities that allow for work in various environments and the handling of tools and equipment necessary for the job.
• Availability and flexibility to travel and work unscheduled hours when needed.
• Customer service skills for providing a positive experience to clients, addressing their needs and concerns, and maintaining professionalism.

 

Field Service Engineer Experience Requirements

Field Service Engineers often start with a degree in engineering or related field and may initially work in related technical roles to gain practical knowledge and experience.

Entry-level candidates usually require 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles within the engineering or technical sector.

They typically develop their skills in fields such as machine operation, electronics, or computer-aided design (CAD) software.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a more in-depth knowledge of troubleshooting and repair, have typically worked on a variety of equipment types, and are comfortable working with customers in a field environment.

Field Service Engineers with more than 5 years of experience may be expected to have leadership skills, often having supervised junior engineers or technicians.

They are usually highly skilled in diagnosing complex problems and recommending solutions, and may be ready for roles such as Field Service Supervisor or Manager.

Some employers may also require specific certifications or training, depending on the complexity of the machinery or equipment the engineer will be working on.

This could include manufacturer-specific training, safety certifications, or advanced technical training.

 

Field Service Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Field Service Engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, such as electrical, mechanical, industrial or electronic engineering.

In addition to a degree, these professionals often need a strong background in computer science and familiarity with programming languages, such as C++, Python, or Java.

They also require a firm understanding of field-specific systems, machinery, and equipment.

Some roles may require Field Service Engineers to have a master’s degree or a professional engineering (PE) license, especially those that entail significant responsibility or specialist knowledge.

In addition to their formal education, they are often required to complete on-the-job training to better understand the specific systems and machinery with which they’ll be working.

Field Service Engineers may also pursue certifications in particular technologies, systems or methodologies, which can demonstrate their commitment to professional development and their expertise in specific areas of field service engineering.

Furthermore, it’s important for Field Service Engineers to have strong problem-solving skills, as they must diagnose and fix issues that arise with equipment in the field.

They also need to have good customer service skills, as they often interact directly with clients.

 

Field Service Engineer Salary Expectations

A Field Service Engineer earns an average salary of $68,566 (USD) per year.

This figure may vary based on factors such as level of experience, industry, and geographical location.

 

Field Service Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Field Service Engineer need?

Field Service Engineers need to possess technical skills to troubleshoot, diagnose, and fix complex machinery.

They should also have excellent problem-solving skills to identify and rectify issues promptly.

Good communication skills are important as they often interact with clients.

They also need to have good physical stamina as the job often involves physically demanding tasks.

 

Do Field Service Engineers need a degree?

While not always required, a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field is often preferred for a Field Service Engineer position.

However, many companies value hands-on experience, so a combination of education and experience in machine repair or similar can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Field Service Engineer resume?

A Field Service Engineer’s resume should highlight their technical skills, such as machinery diagnostics and repair.

It should also show their experience in the field, preferably with specific examples of equipment they’re familiar with.

Look for any qualifications or certifications they hold, and any additional skills like customer service or team leadership.

 

What qualities make a good Field Service Engineer?

A good Field Service Engineer is a critical thinker who can diagnose and fix problems efficiently.

They’re patient, as some fixes may take time, and they can communicate clearly with clients to explain the issues and required repairs.

They also need to be organized to keep track of equipment, spare parts, and maintenance schedules.

 

Is it difficult to hire Field Service Engineers?

Hiring Field Service Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required for the role.

It’s important to offer competitive compensation and opportunities for ongoing training and development to attract and retain the best candidates.

Additionally, the nature of the job often involves travel, so it’s important to find candidates who are comfortable with this aspect of the role.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the complexities of what it really means to be a field service engineer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about fixing machines.

It’s about shaping the future of field service, one engineering solution at a time.

With our essential field service engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next move.

But why not take it a step further?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for precision-tailored job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every engineering solution contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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