Etchers and Engravers
Etchers and engravers use specialized tools and techniques to create designs, images, or patterns on metal, wood, rubber, and other materials. They work in manufacturing facilities, print shops, jewelry studios, and custom art workshops. Some focus on industrial applications like circuit board processing, while others produce decorative or artistic pieces.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against etchers and engravers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work typically involves preparing materials, setting up equipment like pantographs or etching baths, and executing designs with precision. An etcher might spend part of a day reviewing specifications, positioning material in equipment, monitoring chemical or mechanical processes, and inspecting finished work for quality. Tasks vary by specialization—circuit board etchers work with electronic components while art etchers may handle custom orders requiring detailed hand work.
Who this work suits
Holland code RAC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy realistic, detailed visual work and have an artistic sensibility. You're suited to this career if you pay close attention to precision, can follow technical specifications, and find satisfaction in transforming materials into finished designs through skilled craftsmanship.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Sales Associate/Engraver · Senate · Washington, District of Columbia · $55628–$94847
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | $39,070 | $65,380 | $69,670 | 40 |
| Rhode Island | $52,740 | $63,250 | $64,780 | 30 |
| Arizona | $38,240 | $59,940 | $64,630 | — |
| New Jersey | $53,330 | $58,000 | $69,220 | 60 |
| Maryland | $44,370 | $53,680 | $57,770 | 110 |
| Kansas | $29,810 | $52,000 | $52,000 | 40 |
| New York | $37,740 | $51,540 | $60,520 | 520 |
| Massachusetts | $45,290 | $50,710 | $58,620 | 320 |
| Ohio | $39,260 | $50,430 | $64,060 | 320 |
| Wisconsin | $43,800 | $50,290 | $61,520 | 390 |
| Pennsylvania | $40,590 | $47,790 | $52,980 | 260 |
| Maine | $37,570 | $47,520 | $55,500 | 70 |
All 37 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against etchers and engravers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9194.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.