Job Description
An Aircraft Electrician installs and repairs electrical wiring in an aircraft, including cutting and stripping wire and insulating electrical connections. They also service the electrical components. In addition, Aircraft Electricians run tests on equipment to locate issues and install needed replacement parts. That can include reassembling circuit boards, motor components, or other parts of a system.
Aircraft Electrician candidates should know about computer hardware and software, as well as other electrical components such as circuit boards and processors. They should enjoy working with their hands and have experience using electronic testing equipment and reading wiring diagrams and schematics. An Aircraft Electrician needs to be a critical thinker and analytical problem solver, as well as an organized person, to maintain equipment and service records.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Test and implement electrical systems and products based on specifications
- Monitor maintenance and inspection plans
- Repair and maintain electrical systems as needed
- Perform system testing to evaluate performance and functionality
- Maintain inventory control of electrical components and tools
- Recommend upgrades and modifications to improve system performance
Education and Background
This position requires an associate degree in aviation maintenance technology or an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Skills and Competencies
- Analytical, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
- Teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to understand wiring diagrams and schematics
- Strong hand-eye coordination and proficiency in using tools like soldering equipment
- High-level organization skills
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of an Aircraft Electrician with
1 Year of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $38,000
- Tampa, Florida: $40,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $42,000
- Miami, Florida: $49,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $54,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $56,000
- Houston, Texas: $51,000
- Los Angeles, California: $57,000
- New York City, New York: $53,000
- Seattle, Washington: $42,000
- Overall: $49,000
5 Years of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $49,000
- Tampa, Florida: $51,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $48,000
- Miami, Florida: $55,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $59,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $65,000
- Houston, Texas: $62,000
- Los Angeles, California: $62,000
- New York City, New York: $64,000
- Seattle, Washington: $60,000
- Overall: $59,000
Similar Job Titles
- Aviation Electrician
- Avionics Electrical Technician
- Avionics Installer
- Avionics Technician
- Aircraft Technician
Career Path
The path to becoming an Aircraft Electrician starts with earning an associate degree in aviation maintenance technology or an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Aircraft Electricians can obtain a Radiotelephone Operator License from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or an Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certificate from the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT) to become more attractive to employers and advance in their careers.
Position Trends
According to the trade publication Industry Week, one major trend impacting the aviation industry in the years to come is the increasing advancements in aviation technology. Specifically, the conversions to new, more efficient electronics systems in aircraft will mean Aircraft Electricians will need to stay educated on the latest technological improvements.
Another trend in the aviation and aerospace industry is the need for new aircraft. Whether it’s mature markets looking to replace aging airplanes or companies seeking more modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, many companies are looking to replace their fleets. That could mean an increase in job opportunities on the design and manufacturing side, rather than an increase in opportunities for repair and maintenance professionals.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians field should grow by three percent between 2018 and 2028. That’s slower than average.
Typical Hours
Aircraft Electricians usually work rotating, eight-hour shifts. That means overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts are common in this field.
Where You Can Find Jobs
- 4 Corner Resources
- Career Builder
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Monster
- Aviation Job Search
- Aerospace Crossing
Are You Interested in Becoming an Aircraft Electrician?
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