Technical Advisor

Position Overview

Technical advisors are hired when a company is faced with a complex situation or problem that they have little or no experience with. Technical advisors are experts on the subject matter and are meant to provide advice to help the organisation understand the situation better to find an effective solution. They are there to advise on best practices and as such, should have extensive experience on the subject matter. For example, in the agriculture industry, a livestock owner may call on a technical advisor in animal care and nutrition if they experience problems with their animals and cannot find a solution on their own. Alternatively, a design or construction technical advisor may be called on by an organisation to ensure their facility layout is utilized effectively. There are many other industries that use technical advisors, such as software development, film production, and land and crop management. Technical advisors do not actually make any management decisions; however, they present a solid understanding of the problem to the company so that managers are able to make a decision based on their advice. They often work with senior management in companies so that there is a clear understanding of the bigger picture.

Technical Advisor Duties

• Advise companies on the best practices for various complex situations
• Assess risks and requirements for different implementation tactics
• Troubleshoot problems for their customers to develop a viable solution
• Create or modify products
• Document and report on findings
• Work with a variety of different clients
• Provide analysis and mentoring
• Identify possible gaps for a company

Typical Employers

• Consumer packaged goods companies
• Food and beverage manufacturers
• Agricultural equipment manufacturers
• Agricultural technology companies
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Financial providers / banking
• Tech companies
• Software developers
• Movie producers
• Feed companies
• Nutrition companies
• Transportation companies

Required Education and Training

Technical advisors should have a degree in a field related to their specialization. This will help individuals get experience in their area of interest. It is important for technical advisors to have professional experience in their specialization to ensure possible clients can depend on the advice given. Without the degree plus work experience, it would be challenging for someone to become an advisor.

Key Skills and Qualities

• Strong ability to troubleshoot and problem solve
• Ability to assess risks associated with a decision
• Strong customer service skills
• Values integrity
• Ability to work well in a team environment as well as independently
• Strong organisation skills
• Flexible and adaptable to unique and changing circumstances

Average Salary

• The base salary for a technical advisor is approximately £15,000
• With ten or more years of experience, technical advisors make about £45,000
• The average salary for a technical advisor is £21,700