Stereo Technician Career Overview

Duties and Responsibilities of a Stereo Technician

A stereo technician is responsible for the functional maintenance of a stereo, home theater or home audio product. Many of these jobs are run through retail outlets, but some are available through the manufacturer of the specified product. The duties of a stereo technician also include installation after purchase in the customer's home and basic trouble-shooting, either over the phone or in person. Providing customer service and clear communication are daily expectations for a stereo technician. Here are some of the responsibilities and duties for a stereo technician highlighted on postings on Monster.com:

• 'The stereo technician handles in-home consultations to repair or install home stereo and theater products and provide technical assistance and advice to customers. Install fulfillment will range from basic audio/video connection to complex audio testing and diagnostics. The technician will provide a high level of customer service, greet customers professionally and interact with customer to explain installation procedures and usability and functionality of system.' -- Best Buy
• 'This position provides timely and quality installation, tutorial and repairs of customers products while maintaining a high level of customer service. Technicians will also promote and sell additional products and services (such as service warranties) that directly impact the security of the product and customer. This position is responsible for repairing products in the customer's home.' -- Sears Holdings

Job Requirements

The requirements for a stereo technician are based largely in customer service, with a strong need placed on audio-video repair experience and knowledge of the industry. It's usually expected that the technician will at least have a functioning knowledge of the different products that the retail outlet sells or a broad scope of education on basic electronic repair. The educational requirement is typically a high school degree or a GED, and employees must have a valid driver's license where house-call duties are a part of the job and a clean criminal background. Here are some requirements for stereo technician positions listed on CareerBuilder.com:

• 'The technician position requires the candidate to have at least one year's experience installing home theater, surround sound components or related electronic equipment pertaining to technical assistance and support. A candidate with experience installing and supporting an assortment of speaker wire and coaxial cable would be ideal.' -- 4 Peaks Home Entertainment
• 'Our stereo technicians must have prior install experience and clean driving and criminal records. Current, valid driver's license combined with installation and car stereo product knowledge is a plus. Familiarity with industry standards as well as quality product demonstration techniques would be ideal.' -- Car Toys

Employment Outlook

The job outlook for a stereo technician working in home theater and audio installation is positive. With the constant advancement of audio technology and the market's move toward High Definition audio components, the need for experienced stereo technicians is growing in demand. A qualified stereo technician can look to make between $31,000 and $46,000 a year (www.bls.gov) depending on the specific scope of the job and the employer. Since audio and visual technology changes so consistently, a successful stereo technician must stay current with all products. If continuing education is maintained, the room for advancement into management and possibly even product development is available. Without a specific required educational background, getting a job gives a potential employee the chance to receive in-house training and combined with an employee's specific audio-related interested, he or she can become successful.