If you're wondering what is a field service engineer? or what does a field service engineer do?, you’re not alone.
In this article, we’re going dive deep to answer this question and others, including:
Plus, we’ll share stories and examples from the field that will help you on your path.
So if you’re thinking about becoming a field engineer and you need a roadmap from training through the first interview to onboarding, you’ll like this article.
Let’s get started.
A field service engineer is a technical professional who installs, maintains, and repairs systems and equipment at client locations.
Unlike office-based engineers, field engineers work directly on-site, ensuring systems operate efficiently and clients remain satisfied. Think of it as a technical bridge between customers and the engineering department.
While you can find field engineer jobs in different industries such as manufacturing, telecom, energy, healthcare, and agriculture.
Simply put:
Field engineers provide technical solutions directly on-site to ensure systems work properly so customers can freely and safely use them.
The key difference between field engineers and office-based engineers lies in where and how they work.
Traditional engineers usually work from offices, labs, and manufacturing facilities.
They mainly focus on developing products, testing and running simulations, and improving internal systems as part of a larger engineering department.
For example, a mechanical engineer might spend months designing a next-generation industrial boiler in a research and development facility. An electrical engineer might write the firmware for an MRI scanner or test new components in a lab.
By contrast, field service engineers are always on the move.
They travel to customer sites and work with them directly, independently, and handle systems hands-on on location. If a system breaks down, they respond immediately, diagnose the issue, and fix it on the spot. (Often under pressure and without backup.)
For example:
When a semiconductor plant purchases that CMP machine, the field technician goes to the site, installs the unit, calibrates it, and trains local staff. If the CMP malfunctions, the field engineer returns, identifies the fault, and restores full operation.
(Usually in time-critical situations where every hour of downtime could cost thousands.)
Or:
When a hospital acquires a new MRI scanner. The field service technician doesn’t just deliver it. It’s his job to assemble it, run test scans, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and walk the radiology team through the operating procedures.
If the machine develops a fault later, they return, run diagnostics and resolve the issue, all while patients wait.
Basically:
Traditional engineers build the systems. Field service engineers make them work in the field and keep them running.
While no day is the same, you can group field service engineer tasks into four main categories:
Here’s a quick overview of each one:
Task #1: Perform Planned Customer Visits
Planned service visits are a HUGE part of the role. They pretty much make up 50% of the workload.
One engineer described always starting his work week reviewing scheduled stops. Other engineers who work in big teams can rely on field service planning to receive their tasks at the start of their workday.
While tasks may vary from client to client, and from situation to situation. An engineer explained:
“...visiting a university physics lab one day and a semiconductor facility the next.”
But it’s about more than just regular maintenance and systems checks.
Customer satisfaction is a key indicator of field service performance. So scheduled customer visits are just as much about being on time and solving problems as they are about building long-term trust with clients.
Task #2: On-Site Repairs and Troubleshooting
If you ask most field service engineers, they’re often called in when things go wrong or stop working.
These tasks require fast problem solving, and involve:
One story that stood out to me involved an engineer who works for a company that supplies lab equipment for a pharmaceutical company:
“I was called into a cleanroom where a vacuum pump failed during a critical experiment for the development of a new drug.
Once I diagnosed the issue, I was able to replace the component (a failed valve) and the pump started working again.
This took me a little over an hour to do, but prevented a delay that could have cost thousands.”
Task #3: Installation and Commissioning
Before having to fix systems and do maintenance on them, you first need to install them at the client location. This is another task that field technicians perform.
Companies that buy systems and equipment rely on field experts to set up and calibrate the machines, integrate them into the workflow, and in many cases train employees to use them:
When a field engineer from Leybold installed a vacuum pump system in a research lab in Spain, he did all of that:
“I wasn’t just dropping it off and connecting wires, I had to train the researchers, run calibration tests, and make sure the equipment was integrated seamlessly into their experiments that the lab was doing.
It was kind of end-to-end ownership, and that’s what makes the job so rewarding.”
Task #4: Safety Compliance
Safety is non-negotiable. Field engineers follow strict safety protocols so that all installations and repairs meet relevant regulations and quality standards.
Engineers at the office do this, too.
They stress test systems and equipment during development. This helps them to uncover errors, check performance under controlled conditions, create safety documentation and protocols that ensure it.
But it’s up to engineers in the field to follow these safety measures. They conduct risk assessments, identify compliance issues, and report hazards in real-world situations.
In doing so, they protect themselves, the client, and the integrity of the systems and equipment.
For a field service engineer, no two days are the same. And depending on their industry, each field engineer has a different work schedule.
Some work in traditional nine to five shifts. Others cover the remaining shifts in a day depending on the systems and equipment that they service. Think of engineers in telecommunications who maintain servers.
Others still travel long distances to remote locations and work for an unspecified period. Think of field service technicians in the energy sector who maintain oil platforms, for example.
But let’s stick to the typical nine to five field engineer job. For them, a typical day may include:
Field service engineers spend a lot of time on the road. In this example, a technician spent two hours driving from one client site to another.
Throughout the day, field technicians work independently. They manage their own schedule, and stay organized despite their dynamic role and responsibilities. And they always put safety first.
And while this might be a typical day, tomorrow may bring something completely new.
Let's look at the skills you need to succeed in this role.
To be a great field service engineer, you need the right mix of skills. Here are eight skills that we’ve seen our clients look for:
|
Skill |
Use Case |
|
Technical Proficiency |
You’ll need to understand electrical, mechanical, and software systems. |
|
Problem-Solving |
You’ll face challenges that can't be Googled. Creativity counts. |
|
Attention to Detail |
Minor errors can cause major issues—precision matters. |
|
Time Management |
You need to prioritize tasks on the fly, especially when juggling multiple jobs. |
|
Customer Service Skills |
You’re the face of the company. Clients will remember how you made them feel. |
|
Safe Operator |
You must follow procedures to protect yourself and others. |
|
Adaptability |
New locations, new equipment, and new clients means that you have to stay flexible at all times. |
|
Suitable Qualifications |
Most field service technicians have degrees or certifications in engineering, electronics, or mechanics. |
Your salary depends on a lot of factors. This includes your location, experience, and industry, as well as the company you’ll work for.
On average, the salary for a field service engineer position is $91,638 per year.
Here’s a full salary breakdown for a career in field services according to 14,000+ field service engineers:
Salary for field engineers:
Starting salary for field service engineers:
Additional income from field services for engineers:
Being a field service engineer is a career full of opportunity. You solve real problems, meet new people, and make an impact every day.
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, the role offers a lot more than just a paycheck. Here are eight benefits you should definitely consider if you’re thinking about this path in your career:
There is no shortage of critical issues and solutions when it comes to field service management. That’s why you’ll never stop learning in this role.
In fact, every job brings a new challenge. This can include working on the latest equipment, learning a new software update, or following a new safety procedure.
For example, one engineer mentioned how updating vacuum systems meant learning both mechanical and digital diagnostics in a single visit.
You don’t just fix things, you also build up a strong set of skills.
Every day, you use technical knowledge, talk to clients, plan better schedules, and stay calm under pressure. You learn how to troubleshoot problems, manage your time, and lead conversations with clients.
Over time, this makes you a better communicator and a more reliable engineer.
Many companies support the health and wellbeing of their engineers. For example, most companies offer wellness programs and encourage breaks during long shifts, or after long trips.
One engineer shared how a supportive manager encouraged him to take a day off after a week of back-to-back emergency calls. The team always had his back.
Field service engineers earn competitive pay.
On top of your base salary, companies often include travel bonuses, performance incentives, health coverage, and paid time off.
The average field service engineer salary increases with experience and location. This is especially true in high-demand industries like medical tech or oil and gas.
You can grow in this field. Many engineers start out in junior roles or as trainees. From there, they move into positions like team lead, technical trainer, or field service manager.
Some even move into operations or product development roles thanks to their on-the-ground experience.
You get to travel for work, and sometimes internationally. And while travel can be tiring, many engineers enjoy the change of scenery.
One engineer recalled a job that took him to four different cities in one week and he said:
“It made the job feel more like an adventure than a routine.”
Even though you often work independently, you’re never alone. You’re part of a larger technical team.
Engineers regularly support each other through chat apps or team calls, sharing insights or quick fixes for tricky problems. Many say they feel proud of their work and the people they work with.
You’re not left to figure things out on your own. Companies give you the tools and technology you need: from laptops and diagnostics to mobile apps and route planning software.
For example, companies like Bymeric use route optimization software to help plan smarter field service calls. This helps them to reduce travel time, and handle emergency jobs without missing scheduled visits.
Yes, being a field engineer is rewarding… But it isn’t always easy. The job can (and will) push you physically, mentally, and emotionally.
So, it helps to know the challenges before stepping into this role:
Field service engineers work across a variety of industries. Wherever there’s complex equipment involved, you’ll find someone installing, fixing, or maintaining it on site.
Here are a few examples of the industries you might find yourself in as a field engineer:
Engineers keep hospital machines running. They install and maintain MRI scanners, surgical robots, and diagnostic tools.
For example, GE Healthcare and NHS employ field engineers to service imaging devices in clinics and hospitals.
Factories rely on engineers to keep machines moving. They repair vacuum systems, compressors, robots, and conveyor belts.
Companies like Heatleys, Siemens and ABB hire field engineers to service automation equipment on-site.
These engineers set up and fix servers, routers, and data systems. One day they’re installing new hardware in a bank; the next, they’re solving network issues in a warehouse.
Companies that you might find them working for include IT service providers like IBM or Cisco.
Robots need regular updates and support. Engineers calibrate robotic arms or troubleshoot autonomous systems.
Companies like FANUC and Boston Dynamics rely on engineers to keep robots operating in labs and production environments.
In the automotive world, engineers work on testing systems, diagnostic tools, and robotic assembly lines.
Think of companies like Tesla, Bosch, or Continental. All three rely on field engineers to support their advanced manufacturing tools and software.
Field engineers travel to offshore platforms to maintain turbines, sensors, and pressurized systems.
They often work in tough environments for companies like Schlumberger or Halliburton, where safety and precision are critical.
Large buildings need heating and cooling systems to run efficiently. Engineers install and repair rooftop units, boilers, and ventilation systems.
Companies like Trane and Johnson Controls hire field engineers to service these systems at office buildings, malls, and airports.
Modern farms use high-tech tools. Engineers help maintain autonomous tractors, harvesters, and smart irrigation systems.
Companies like John Deere employ field service experts to keep farming equipment running during critical harvest seasons.
To become a field service engineer, most employers expect:
As a graduate, you start as a field service engineer trainee, gaining experience through apprenticeships or field service engineer onboarding programs.
The average salary for field service engineers is $91,638 per year.
You can expect to receive anywhere from $56,397/per year (entry-level position) to $123,198/per year (senior position).
Yes. Often regionally or even globally. This will depend on the industry and the company you work for.Most employers will provide you with vehicles and transportation.
Look for field service engineer recruitment opportunities on company sites or job boards.
It usually includes a phone screen, technical interview, and sometimes a hands-on test.
This depends on the industry you’ll work in. Companies provide workers with uniforms, safety boots, and protective equipment. In most cases, this also includes tools, vehicles, a work laptop and phone, access to diagnostics apps, field service management software and other useful technology.
Yes. Most companies offer extensive field service engineer onboarding, continuous learning, and safety training. Especially, when it comes to industries with high risk and impact on human life like medicine or energy.
If you’re a business owner, here’s the deal:
Field service engineers keep businesses running.
They fix problems before they get worse. They prevent downtime. They improve safety. And they build trust with customers.
Without them, critical machines stop, operations slow down, and customers lose confidence in what you’re selling.
So it’s your job as their employer to support them.
That said:
Field service is growing fast.
More industries now use smart machines, field service operations automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
That means more companies need skilled engineers to install, maintain, and repair this advanced equipment.
At the same time, technology is changing the way engineers work.
eLogii is a route planning tool. But half of our users are in the field service industry. And they rely on our software to benefit both their field technicians and field agents, as much as their business.
Here’s why eLogii works for field service companies:
eLogii gives engineers real-time access to service history, repair guides, and customer notes (all from their phones or tablets).
It helps them solve problems faster and carry the right tools and parts. They can update reports, capture photos, or collect e-signatures in the field without paperwork.
For example, instead of calling in for updates, engineers at VJ Technologies use our driver app to get their next job, see the route, and plan their day. That saves time and avoids confusion.
Companies use eLogii to schedule tasks, track equipment, and see where their engineers are in real time. That means better planning, fewer missed appointments, and lower operating costs.
Managers can monitor job performance, track inventory, and handle emergencies faster. This reduces travel time, fuel costs, and stress on the team.
Platforms like ours help companies like Vergo optimize routes and dispatch the right technician at the right time.
Field service engineers are the problem-solvers.
Relying on their technical skills, they’re always on the go, working hands-on with systems and equipment to support your customers directly.
If you’re thinking about a career in field service engineering, you can expect jobs with strong pay, growth, and variety.
Still, it’s not an easy job. It definitely has its fair share of challenges, long hours, high-pressure tasks, and days away from home.
And if you’d like to learn more about how to overcome the challenges of field service, consider subscribing to our blog.