Avionics Technician | 4 Corner Resources

Job Description

Avionics Technicians inspect and test all the electrical and computer systems that keep airplanes, helicopters, and spacecraft flying. They assemble and install the avionics equipment on various aircraft and aerospace projects, including radar systems, radio communications equipment, and flight controls. In addition to servicing and installing avionics equipment, Avionics Technicians test avionics systems to ensure they function properly before an aircraft can take off. They also repair malfunctioning systems.

Avionics Technician candidates should be computer-minded and enjoy working with their hands. They should also have experience using electronic testing equipment and reading wiring diagrams and schematics. An Avionics Technician needs to be a critical thinker, analytical problem solver, and an organized person, to maintain equipment and service records.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

Test and implement avionics systems and products based on specifications
Monitor maintenance and inspection plans
Repair and maintain avionics systems as needed
Set up ground support and testing equipment to check flight-readiness
Assemble avionics components using hand tools or soldering irons

Education and Background

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 Avionics Technician with

1 Year of Experience:

Orlando, Florida: $39,000
Tampa, Florida: $40,000
Jacksonville, Florida: $43,000
Miami, Florida: $49,000
Atlanta, Georgia: $55,000
Chicago, Illinois: $56,000
Houston, Texas: $53,000
Los Angeles, California: $57,000
New York City, New York: $54,000
Seattle, Washington: $43,000
Overall: $55,000

5 Years of Experience:

Orlando, Florida: $50,000
Tampa, Florida: $51,000
Jacksonville, Florida: $50,000
Miami, Florida: $55,000
Atlanta, Georgia: $60,000
Chicago, Illinois: $65,000
Houston, Texas: $61,000
Los Angeles, California: $62,000
New York City, New York: $65,000
Seattle, Washington: $60,000
Overall: $60,000

Similar Job Titles

Aircraft Mechanic
Aircraft Electrician
Avionics Electrical Technician
Avionics Installer
Aviation Electrician
Aircraft Technician

Career Path

This position requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Some employers prefer candidates to obtain an associate degree for certain positions or career advancement. Successful Avionics Technicians can advance into leadership roles such as Lead Mechanic, Lead Inspector, or Shop Supervisor.

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 Avionics Technicians will have 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 aircraft or companies seeking more modern, more 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

Avionics Technicians usually work rotating, eight-hour shifts. That means overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts are common in this field.

Where You Can Find Jobs

Are You Interested in Becoming an Avionics Technician?

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