The standard workweek is generally 40 hours and when overtime is worked, it is usually paid at one and a half times the normal rate. Most shops provide fringe benefits including paid holidays and vacations, group health and life insurance, sick leave, and pension plans. Employers prefer high school graduates who have had courses in mathematics, machine shop, and basic sciences, including physics. Mechanical aptitude and experience in machine related occupations give job seekers a distinct advantage. In smaller shops advancement may consist of increases in salary.
Some technicians start their own businesses.
Newspaper ads, and the California Employment Development Department Job Service are other sources of job leads. The purpose of this occupational guide is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions.