SCA Certificate Program

Coffee Technicians Program

Master the installation, maintenance, and repair of professional coffee equipment

6

Course Modules

3

Module Skill-Levels

Flexible Learning

In-person or Distance learning

closeup image of the internal working of a coffee machine at an SCA course

About

Coffee Technicians Program

This hands-on program develops the skills needed to install, maintain, and repair espresso machines, brewers, grinders, and water treatment systems across the specialty coffee industry.

  • Learn essential electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems in coffee equipment

  • Master diagnostic techniques and repair procedures through hands-on practice

  • Develop maintenance strategies to ensure optimal equipment performance

How It Works

1) Choose Your Program

Select from our range of certificate programs, each focusing on different aspects of coffee expertise — from brewing and roasting to green coffee and sustainability.

2) Complete Your Training

Take part in a mix of hands-on and remote learning, delivered by authorized SCA Trainers. The delivery method of your course will depend on your location and module — either in-person, online, or a mix of both.

3) Pass Your Assessment

Demonstrate your knowledge and skills through practical and written examinations. Once successful, you'll earn your globally-recognized certificate, while earning credit towards an SCA Skills Diploma.

From Certificates to Career-Ready

Transform your course modules into an SCA Skills Diploma, tailored to your specific career pathway.

Coffee Technicians

Program Structure

Uniquely designed for hands-on technical education, all courses require some in-person instruction and include both written and practical examinations.

Foundation courses are typically two-day sessions, while Intermediate and Professional courses range from two to four days each.

Foundation Electrical

Technicians

In-person or Distance • 9 hours

Learn the fundamentals of coffee equipment electrical systems and safety.

- Master basic electrical testing tools
- Understand machine power requirements
- Practice safe connection procedures

Foundation Hydraulics

Technicians

In-person or Distance • 7 hours

Introduction to coffee machine hydraulic systems and water connections.

- Learn hydraulic circuit components
- Master basic plumbing tools
- Connect machines to water supply

Foundation Water & Preventive Maintenance

Technicians

In-person or Distance • 9 hours

Explore water treatment systems and preventive maintenance procedures.

- Understand water quality parameters
- Learn maintenance schedules
- Master basic system repairs

Intermediate Diagnostics and Repair

Technicians

In-person or Distance • 32 hours

Advanced troubleshooting and repair of coffee equipment systems.

- Diagnose common equipment problems
- Perform complex repairs safely
- Adjust operating parameters

Intermediate Water Repair

Technicians

In-person or Distance • 16 hours

In-depth study of water treatment systems and parameters.

- Install treatment systems
- Maintain water quality
- Troubleshoot system issues

Advanced Equipment Support

Technicians

In-person or Distance • tbd hours

Master complex repairs and maintenance program management.

- Create maintenance strategies
- Manage equipment inventory
- Handle complex repairs

Skills Diplomas

Convert Your Certificates Into Industry Credentials

Each completed certificate is the building block of an SCA Skills Diploma. Combine them into industry-recognized credentials, specially designed for professional coffee careers.

SCA Cafe skills diploma

Café

Creating, preparing, and promoting specialty coffee experiences.

SCA Roastery skills diploma

Roastery

Development, production, and quality assurance of roasted coffee.

SCA Coffee trade skills diploma

Coffee Trade

Handling, evaluation, and trade of green coffee.

SCA Sustainable coffee skills diploma

Sustainable Coffee

Developing and implementing best practices to promote sustainability.

Find Available Courses

Know which certificate program and level you want to take? Use our Course Finder to browse upcoming courses in your region.

FAQs

  • Certificate Programs are individual courses that teach specific skills - like how to make espresso or roast coffee. You earn a certificate after completing each course.

    Skills Diplomas prove you're job-ready for specific coffee careers. They combine multiple certificates to show you have all the skills needed for roles like café manager or coffee trader. As SCA Education courses are modular, each certificate course contributes towards your eligibility to one of the Skills Diplomas. Each Skills Diploma requires a combination of certificates across our Certificate Programs – the Coffee Skills Program, Coffee Sustainability Program, and Coffee Technicians Program.

  • With modular courses, you can start anywhere and be on track towards a rewarding coffee career. A popular certificate course that gives a solid foundation is the Introduction to Coffee module within the Coffee Skills Program.

  • Most courses combine online theory with in-person practical training. Some foundation-level content can be fully online, but all practical skills require hands-on assessment.

  • Use the SCA Course Finder on our website. Enter your location to see the latest courses in your area.

  • Each diploma needs a specific mix of certificates across all of the three SCA Certificate Programs – the Coffee Skills Program, Coffee Sustainability Program, and Coffee Technicians Program. Check the requirements for your chosen diploma path on the SCA Skills Diploma page.

  • All SCA courses are taught exclusively by certified Authorized SCA Trainers (ASTs). Each trainer sets their own pricing, so check the Course Finder to see current costs and dates in your area.

  • Yes, all valid SCA certificates count toward Skills Diploma requirements, including those earned before 2024.