How to Become an ATM Technician

Last Updated: March 24, 2023

Automated Teller Machines (ATM) dispense money and carry information about bank accounts for bank customers around the world. ATM are capable of processing thousands of transactions per day; however, they require regular maintenance to perform. ATM technicians service ATMs, replacing parts, distributing cash and troubleshooting. A trained ATM tech must be trustworthy, apt with mechanics and able to perform security duties with money as needed. ATM require fewer repairs than they used to, so this field has become increasingly competitive. Find out how to become an ATM technician.

Steps

1
Maintain a pristine criminal record. An ATM technician has access to large amounts of cash during the course of their daily activities; however, any discrepancy with an ATM balance will leave an employee at risk for termination and prosecution. In order to be hired at any job, you will be required to undergo a thorough background and reference check.
2
Obtain a high school diploma or equivalency. In order to get the required training you will be required to prove you have received a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or a diploma. This is usually the minimum educational requirement to enroll in technical training programs; however, some exceptions may be made for people who have not completed an equivalency certificate but have high aptitude.^{[1]
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3
Enroll in a mechanics vocational program. These programs are available in some technical high schools and in most technical colleges. You will need to have a basic understanding of mechanics in order to receive training on ATMs.
- An associate's degree is an advisable path. If you want to seek an associate's degree, consider an associate's of applied science or installation and repair. If you want to seek a bachelor's degree, consider mechanical engineering or electronics.
4
Seek an ATM repair certificate. There are a few ways to get this qualification.
- Search for a community college or vocational school program in ATM repair. Although these programs are somewhat rare, they will be the best resource for certification and job placement. Call vocational schools to find the best program.
- Enroll in a private ATM training course. A few companies, such as ATM Gurus and TestLink Services Ltd, provide training on ATM repair for $800 to $1,000 for a 1 to 3 day training session. Make sure these courses are accredited and offer a certificate.
- Apply for a job with an ATM manufacturer or company that provides on the job training. If you already have some mechanical training, this is the best option. You will be sent to a training session before starting work. You will receive a certificate and then begin work with the same type of machines that you were trained to use.
5
Apply for a job with an ATM repair company or ATM manufacturer. Many banks contract out their ATM maintenance to these companies. You are more likely to maintain regular work by being employed in this manner.
6
Become a freelance ATM repairman. Some people in this industry work on a contract basis. If you want to retire or freelance, then you can start an ATM repair business after gaining many years of experience and excellent employer recommendations.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I determine where I can train to become a technician in my area?

Community Answer

Diebold is the main producer of most ATMs. I went for a 5 day training program in North Canton, Ohio. It was paid for by my employer.
Question

What are some tools I need to buy to repair the atm machines?

Community Answer

Those are provided by the employer once hired. You can also carry your own tools like a cordless drill, drill bits, vice grips, screwdrivers, etc.
Question

What certifications do I need to become an ATM technician?

Community Answer

Usually, you should find that an existing ATM business operator will be willing to train you through on-the-job-training. If you are successful at that, then it's likely they will employ you.

Warnings

Beware that many ATM techs are asked to repair machines at night. They must also troubleshoot during unscheduled times, in case an ATM breaks down.

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ATM require less maintenance than they used to. It is a good idea to learn computer repair, office machine repair or other certificates from a vocational school in order to ensure you will have enough work.

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