what is a technical manager?

As a technical manager, you ensure the smooth operation of all technical processes. Together with your team, you oversee the operational workflows. You plan the requirements for staff and materials, then deploy everything efficiently. Your role also includes maintaining and repairing technical equipment or instructing others to do so. technical managers are found wherever technical processes take place. Therefore, you typically specialise in a particular area. This could be in a theatre, where you are responsible for the entire technical department. If you prefer the open sea, you might work on a cruise ship, handling all technical aspects of the entertainment sector. If you enjoy reaching new heights, you could be responsible for the safe operation of cable cars. If you also care about the environment and climate, you might take on responsibilities in energy and environmental technology. With network solutions and ICT systems, you could work in telecommunications. As a technical manager, many career paths are open to you. Ultimately, your choice depends on your personal preferences. Curious? Keep reading to find out what your responsibilities as a technical manager are.

technical manager jobs
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working as a technical manager.

Your responsibilities as a technical manager are diverse. They primarily depend on your area of specialisation. Find out more about your duties as a technical manager here.

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types of technical managers.

As a technical manager, you have countless opportunities to specialise. Which area you choose depends on your interests. Here is a selection:

  • Technical manager of theatre: Your domain is the stage, the world that means everything to you. You plan and coordinate all technical operations. This includes all theatre disciplines such as ballet, choir, opera, orchestra, and drama. Additionally, you are responsible for the finances. You ensure that the set, equipment, and building maintenance stay within budget.

  • Technical manager of the ship: Are you seeking adventure abroad? You check in on board. Cruise ships have now become floating luxury hotels and club venues. This also includes entertainment. As the technical director, you are responsible for the technical aspects of the entertainment area. This also involves supervising the performances.

  • Technical manager of cable cars: You’re drawn to reaching new heights in this role. As the technical manager, you ensure the safe operation of the cable car systems. In the event of malfunctions or accidents, you know exactly what to do. When it comes to modifications or new installations of the cable car system, you take on the project management. Thanks to your careful oversight, guests have safe and reliable access to the cable car.

  • Technical manager for energy and environment: This promising field focuses entirely on renewable energy sources. You will be responsible for the planning and technical execution, as well as the installation of systems and equipment. In doing so, you will ensure excellent energy and resource efficiency.

  • Technical manager in mechanical engineering: Process cycles, analytical equipment, and prototype systems are at the heart of your specialist area. You design and set up process cycles, operate analytical instruments, and install and maintain prototype systems. Additionally, you assemble components and systems based on technical drawings.

  • Technical service manager: As the Customer Service Manager, customer satisfaction is your top priority. After all, customers should be happy with their purchase. In the event of issues, you send your response team immediately. For minor faults, they resolve the problem directly on site. Some spare parts need to be ordered first. In that case, your service team will arrange a new appointment.
Male with glasses smiling and looking to the side
Male with glasses smiling and looking to the side
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salary as technical manager.

Technical processes are present in all companies and industries. Therefore, as a technical manager, you are a sought after professional and leader. According to popular job platforms, this has an impact on your basic salary. When you first enter the profession, you can expect an average salary of around 102,000 CHF per year. That’s approximately 8,500 CHF per month. The actual gross salary you receive depends on your specialisation and your level of experience. Additionally, benefits such as a 13th month’s salary and other perks can boost your overall earnings.

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vocational and further education as a technical manager.

All routes to becoming a technical manager start with a basic vocational qualification (EFZ). An apprenticeship in a craft trades is the foundation for your further training. First, you need to acquire technical knowledge. Only then can you develop the social skills necessary to lead a team. If theatre work appeals to you, you should complete a four year apprenticeship as an Event Specialist EFZ. There, you will learn everything about event technology, specialising in lighting, stage, multimedia, sound, and safety. Afterwards, you gain some practical work experience. Over four semesters, you can further your education alongside your job to become a Certified Event Technician BP, specialising in either stage or lighting. If you are fascinated by cable car systems, you can undertake a four year basic training as a Cable Car Mechatronics Technician EFZ. For those aiming for a career as a Service technical manager, a three year basic qualification plus several years of practical experience in service are required. Additionally, you can undertake a two-year part-time course to become a qualified Head of Technical Customer Service/Support. Whatever path you choose, ongoing training is essential in your profession. Technologies are advancing at a rapid pace, so it’s important to stay up-to-date.

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positions as technical manager.

Technical managers are in demand across all industries. No business can operate without technical processes or digital technologies. Depending on your specialisation and preferences, you have a wide range of options. You might find interesting roles as a technical manager in service within manufacturing companies and trading firms. Exciting challenges await in the ICT sector and environmental technology. The entertainment and tech industries offer opportunities in event management, theatre, cruise ships, as well as film and television. However, these opportunities are limited, so building a strong network is essential. As a technical manager for cable cars, you would mainly work on tourist cable car systems in the mountains. Are you looking for an attractive position as a technical manager where you can make a real impact? You can find such opportunities on this page.

two males and a womale having a conversation in an office environment
two males and a womale having a conversation in an office environment
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positions for career changers as technical managers.

As a technical manager, you particularly need solid technical expertise. Therefore, having a basic technical qualification provides you with the best foundation. With several years of professional experience, your chances are further improved. Career changers from related fields are welcome in most companies, especially if they wish to develop further. Some organisations offer internal training programmes. Alternatively, you can attend courses organised by professional associations or technical colleges.

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career opportunities and development potential as a technical manager.

Technical managers already hold a middle management position. That’s certainly not the end of the line. Your technical expertise forms the foundation of your success as a technical manager. You can specialise further and become an expert in a particular field. For example, you might pursue additional qualifications such as a diploma as a Technical Engineer HF in Mechanical Engineering or a Cable Car Manager HFP. To advance into senior management, consider studying for a Bachelor of Science (FH) in Industrial Engineering. Vocational colleges, professional associations, and universities of applied sciences offer a wide range of courses. Additionally, develop your business acumen. Expand your skills in personnel management. Large companies often provide in house training programmes to prepare you for senior leadership roles. Are you looking to progress as a technical manager? Check out our tests and tips.

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competencies as a technical manager.

Technical managers possess highly developed technical skills. However, in your leadership role, you also need additional competencies such as:

  • Leadership strength: Your role as the technical manager is to ensure that all technical processes run smoothly. For this, you need a competent team to support you. You keep morale high and resolve conflicts when things get stressful. Thanks to your leadership skills, everyone pulls together and works towards the company's goals.

  • Communication skills: You primarily work with your technical team. Additionally, you communicate with senior management, project managers, and quality managers. In some areas, you may also interact with tradespeople. Everyone relies on you to translate complex technical issues into simple terms. You provide clear instructions so that everyone understands what needs to be done.

  • Flexibility: As a technical manager, you plan and coordinate many things. However, not everything can be anticipated. Disruptions or even failures usually catch you off guard. In such cases, it's important to respond flexibly and to set priorities.
Group of people having a meeting, in a room with glass windows
Group of people having a meeting, in a room with glass windows
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benefits of being a technical manager at randstad.

There are many good reasons to work at Randstad as an electrical engineer.

✓ exciting jobs at well known companies
✓ a reliable point of contact whenever you need one; personalised advice matters
✓ attractive employment conditions and good social benefits
✓ further education courses and personal development opportunities
✓ clear information in the myRandstad app
✓ do you have a fixed term contract? Often, there’s the opportunity to secure a permanent position afterwards. Many well known companies also recruit their staff directly through Randstad.

your professional development budget as an electrical engineer at randstad.

If you work as an electrical engineer for Randstad, you have access to further training courses. As part of the TempTraining programme from swissstaffing, you can attend training sessions. You will be reimbursed for the course fees later, provided you pass the course exam. Your consultant from Randstad is there to support you if you have any questions. This way, you can also acquire additional language skills or job specific knowledge. And all of this can be done during your working hours as an electrical engineer.

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application tips for technical managers at randstad.

Have you found your dream job as a technical manager? It’s not just qualifications and certificates that determine the success of your applications. Careful, error free, and personalised documents will definitely help you in your job search. Here are a few useful tips to optimise your chances:

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frequently asked questions.

Here you will find frequently asked questions about the role of the technical manager.

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