What Does an Aircraft Electrician Do?
An aircraft electrician installs, inspects, maintains, and repairs the electrical systems on airplanes and helicopters. These professionals ensure that crucial systems like lighting, communication, navigation, and flight control wiring function correctly and safely. Aircraft electricians work in both commercial and military aviation sectors, where precision and attention to detail are essential.
They use technical schematics and diagnostic equipment to troubleshoot electrical issues, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and safety protocols. Whether on the ground during scheduled maintenance or on call for emergency repairs, aircraft electricians are a vital part of keeping air operations running safely and efficiently.
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Aircraft Electrician Core Responsibilities
- Install, test, and repair aircraft electrical systems, including lighting, communication, and navigation wiring
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical diagrams, and maintenance manuals
- Conduct routine inspections to identify wear, corrosion, or system failures
- Use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and resolve electrical malfunctions
- Work closely with aircraft engineers and maintenance crews to coordinate repairs
- Ensure compliance with FAA standards and safety regulations
- Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and system updates
- Operate specialized tools like oscilloscopes, multimeters, and wire testers
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in reading electrical schematics and blueprints
- Skilled in soldering, wiring, and component testing
- Experience using diagnostic tools (e.g., multimeters, continuity testers)
- Knowledge of FAA maintenance and safety standards
- Familiarity with digital and analog avionics systems
Soft skills
- High attention to detail
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work under pressure and in time-sensitive environments
- Effective communication and teamwork
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- Technical training in aviation maintenance or electrical systems
- Completion of an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) program (preferred)
Certifications
- FAA Airframe License (required for some roles)
- Military certifications may be accepted in lieu of civilian equivalents
Preferred Qualifications
- Two or more years of experience working in aviation or aerospace environments
- Familiarity with both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft systems
- Background in military aviation maintenance
- OSHA safety training or equivalent workplace safety certifications
National Average Salary
Aircraft electrician salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Aircraft Electrician is:
$76,252
Sample Job Description Templates for Aircraft Electricians
Entry-Level Aircraft Electrician
Position Overview
As an entry-level aircraft electrician, you’ll support the installation and maintenance of electrical systems on aircraft under close supervision. This role is ideal for recent technical graduates or military veterans looking to launch a career in aviation maintenance.
Entry-Level Aircraft Electrician Responsibilities
- Assist in installing wiring, circuit breakers, and electrical fixtures in aircraft
- Follow schematics and supervisor instructions to perform repairs and updates
- Conduct basic continuity checks and use diagnostic tools to verify systems
- Maintain tools and workspaces in accordance with safety guidelines
- Document tasks completed for maintenance records
Entry-Level Aircraft Electrician Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of electrical wiring and schematics
- Familiarity with hand tools and voltmeters
- Ability to follow technical manuals and blueprints
Soft skills
- Eagerness to learn and take direction
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to safety
- Dependable team player with good communication skills
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of a technical school program in aviation or electrical systems (preferred)
Senior Aircraft Electrician
Position Overview
A senior aircraft electrician leads complex maintenance and repair operations, mentors junior staff, and ensures all work meets aviation safety and compliance standards. This role requires deep experience in diagnosing and resolving intricate electrical issues.
Senior Aircraft Electrician Responsibilities
- Lead inspection and troubleshooting of electrical and avionics systems
- Supervise and guide junior electricians during maintenance projects
- Collaborate with engineers and maintenance managers on system upgrades
- Maintain compliance with FAA regulations and company standards
- Keep detailed service records and contribute to process improvements
Senior Aircraft Electrician Requirements
Hard skills
- Expert in electrical diagnostics and avionics troubleshooting
- Proficient in using advanced testing tools and software
- Deep understanding of FAA regulations and documentation protocols
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and mentoring abilities
- Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Excellent organizational and communication capabilities
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Technical degree or FAA-approved training program
Certifications
- FAA Airframe License (required)
- Additional avionics certifications (preferred)
Field Service Aircraft Electrician
Position Overview
Field service aircraft electricians travel to customer locations or remote sites to diagnose and repair electrical issues on aircraft. This independent role requires expertise, adaptability, and strong communication to manage field operations successfully.
Field Service Aircraft Electrician Responsibilities
- Travel to service sites to inspect, test, and repair electrical systems
- Interface directly with clients and aviation personnel to assess needs
- Troubleshoot systems using portable diagnostic tools and schematics
- Ensure field repairs comply with regulatory and safety standards
- Submit detailed service reports and recommend follow-up maintenance
Field Service Aircraft Electrician Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficient in diagnosing issues with limited resources
- Knowledge of both commercial and private aircraft electrical systems
- Capable of working with minimal supervision in variable environments
Soft skills
- Self-starter with strong time management
- Comfortable communicating with clients and aviation professionals
- Resourceful and safety-conscious
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Technical training or FAA-certified program
Certifications
- FAA Airframe License (preferred)
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel extensively
Avionics Electrician
Position Overview
An avionics electrician specializes in the installation and maintenance of electronic systems that support navigation, communication, and flight control. This role is crucial for keeping aircraft flight-ready and technologically updated.
Avionics Electrician Responsibilities
- Install and calibrate avionics systems, including radar, GPS, and autopilot
- Troubleshoot digital systems using oscilloscopes and computer software
- Modify and upgrade systems according to technical bulletins
- Ensure systems integrate correctly with flight instrumentation
- Maintain logs and support FAA compliance
Avionics Electrician Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of electronic systems and flight instrumentation
- Skilled in using digital testing and calibration tools
- Familiar with MIL-SPEC and commercial avionics standards
Soft skills
- Analytical mindset with precision focus
- Comfortable working in high-stakes environments
- Team-oriented with excellent documentation practices
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Specialized avionics training or certification program
Certifications
- FAA Repairman Certificate or NCATT Avionics certification (preferred)
Helicopter Electrician
Position Overview
Helicopter electricians focus on the unique electrical systems of rotary-wing aircraft. This role involves detailed work in confined spaces and a strong grasp of vibration-resistant wiring techniques.
Helicopter Electrician Responsibilities
- Install and maintain electrical wiring on rotary-wing aircraft
- Inspect and service battery systems, lighting, and avionics
- Perform repairs in line with helicopter-specific vibration tolerances
- Coordinate with flight engineers and maintenance teams
- Document all electrical modifications and repairs
Helicopter Electrician Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in helicopter electrical layouts and components
- Knowledge of vibration-safe wiring and fasteners
- Experience with rotorcraft avionics systems
Soft skills
- Calm under pressure with strong focus
- Able to collaborate across maintenance disciplines
- Comfortable working in tight or elevated spaces
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Rotary-wing maintenance training or military experience (preferred)
Certifications
- FAA Airframe License (often preferred or required)