Avionics Technician Job Description
If you were to search for a position as an avionics technician, you would stumble upon companies such as Aerotek Aviation and Lockheed Martin.
But what exactly does an avionics tech do? In the most general terms, an avionic technician (or aviation electrical technician) deals with a wide variety of aspects of the modern aircraft. Some of the more specific tasks that an avionics technician takes on include:
- Handling communication, flight control, navigation, and life-support functions of the aircraft
- Installing, repairing, and maintaining all systems mentioned above
- Testing systems to ensure that they are working efficiently and correctly
- Inspecting systems that have already been installed in the aircraft
- Developing new electronics systems as well as calibrating them to particular specifications
- Completing and signing installation and maintenance documents for each piece of equipment
- Troubleshooting and diagnosing any possible issues regarding complex aircraft systems
- Attending workshops and seminars to keep up-to-date with the newest technological advances
- Setting up and operating test equipment and ground support to perform flight tests of electrical systems
- Interpreting flight test results in order to diagnose any malfunctions and fix any system performance issues
Since the types of electrical systems that an avionics technician varies so greatly, many techs end up specializing in one particular area—for example, oscilloscope review, microcircuit television microscopy, or computerized guidance systems.
Avionics technicians can seek employment in a variety of companies including aircraft system manufacturing plants, airlines, aircraft maintenance and repair companies, or some branches of the U.S. government such as the Federal Aviation Administration and NASA. Most of the time, avionics technicians work in production facilities or in hangars, near aircrafts.
Learning to Become an Avionics Tech
The majority of avionics technicians must have high school diplomas as well as having certification. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an avionic technician must acquire an FAA mechanics’ certificate in order to work.
These certificates can be acquired through FAA-certified trade schools, through employment training programs that typically last between six and twelve months.
If you want to give yourself an advance over fellow job competition, you can obtain a college degree in electronic engineering or a related field of study.
This education will let employers know that you have the knowledge needed to jump in to on-the-job training, providing you with an edge that will get you the job you want.
Earning as an Avionics Tech
The average avionics technician earns an hourly salary of $31.30 in 2018. The more experienced avionics technicians earned more than $37.85 at this time. Keep in mind that the salaries vary greatly, depending upon the type of company and size of airline.
If you enjoy working with your hands, enjoy fixing problems, and want to be a part of a stable and demanding industry, consider training to become an avionics technician. Avionics technicians are very much in-demand and can earn you a decent salary in an entry-level job.