What Does an Avionics Technician Do?
An avionics technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the complex electronic systems that control modern aircraft. These systems include navigation, communication, radar, autopilot, flight control, and onboard entertainment or monitoring systems. Avionics technicians work with both analog and digital components and are critical to ensuring the operational safety and regulatory compliance of aircraft electronics.
Working under strict FAA and manufacturer guidelines, avionics technicians use diagnostic tools to test instruments, install new components, update firmware or software, and perform calibration of systems. They operate in hangars, on the flight line, or in dedicated avionics shops, supporting both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft in commercial, private, or military aviation sectors.
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Avionics Technician Core Responsibilities
- Install, inspect, troubleshoot, and repair aircraft avionics systems
- Test components such as radios, altimeters, GPS systems, and flight data recorders
- Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals
- Calibrate instruments and perform functional tests on electronic systems
- Replace or upgrade outdated wiring, connectors, or components
- Maintain detailed records of repairs, inspections, and part replacements
- Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and safety standards
- Collaborate with aircraft maintenance teams and pilots on electronic issues
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in reading wiring diagrams and avionics schematics
- Skilled in using multimeters, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and test benches
- Familiarity with communication, navigation, radar, and flight control systems
- Experience with soldering, crimping, and electronic component replacement
- Knowledge of FAA regulations and aviation maintenance procedures
Soft skills
- High attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols
- Analytical problem-solving and diagnostic thinking
- Ability to work under pressure and within tight deadlines
- Clear communication with maintenance teams and pilots
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or technical diploma in avionics, electronics, or aviation maintenance
Certifications
- FAA repairman certificate (avionics) or A&P license preferred
- FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) may be required for communication/radar systems
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience working with aircraft electronic systems
- Background in commercial, business, or military aviation
- Experience with digital flight control systems (FBW) or integrated avionics suites (e.g., Garmin, Rockwell Collins)
- Familiarity with aircraft maintenance systems like CAMP or AMOS
- OEM training or certification (e.g., Airbus, Boeing, Honeywell)
National Average Salary
Avionics technician salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Avionics Technician is:
$68,755
Sample Job Description Templates for Avionics Technicians
Entry-Level Avionics Technician
Position Overview
An entry-level avionics technician assists in maintaining and installing electronic systems on aircraft. This position is designed for individuals new to the field, often working under certified technicians while developing skills in troubleshooting, inspections, and avionics documentation.
Entry-Level Avionics Technician Responsibilities
- Assist with inspections and basic maintenance of avionics systems
- Help install wiring harnesses, connectors, and circuit components
- Conduct visual checks and simple continuity tests
- Read and interpret wiring diagrams and equipment manuals
- Maintain work logs and follow safety and compliance protocols
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic understanding of aviation electronics and electrical systems
- Familiarity with hand tools, soldering, and testing equipment
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn in a high-regulation environment
- Strong attention to detail and task completion
- Good communication with senior technicians
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or technical certificate in avionics, electronics, or related field
Certifications
- None required; FAA repairman certificate or GROL in progress is a plus
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or training program experience in avionics
- Exposure to digital avionics or cockpit systems
- Familiarity with aircraft maintenance environments
Certified Avionics Technician
Position Overview
A certified avionics technician performs diagnostics, repairs, and installations of aircraft electronic systems while ensuring FAA and OEM compliance. This technician works independently and may sign off on regulatory documentation.
Certified Avionics Technician Responsibilities
- Troubleshoot, repair, and calibrate communication, navigation, and monitoring systems
- Install and upgrade avionics components and wiring in accordance with manuals and FAA guidelines
- Perform continuity, resistance, and functionality tests using advanced diagnostic tools
- Complete accurate maintenance and inspection records
- Coordinate with pilots and engineers regarding avionics performance issues
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in reading schematics and using test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, borescopes)
- Experience with integrated avionics platforms (e.g., Garmin, Collins, Honeywell)
Soft skills
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Accountability in documentation and compliance
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or military equivalent in avionics or electronics
Certifications
- FAA repairman certificate or A&P license with avionics specialization
- FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) required
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in avionics maintenance or upgrades
- Familiarity with maintenance tracking systems (e.g., CAMP, AMOS)
- Experience with turbine-powered aircraft or business jets
Senior/Lead Avionics Technician
Position Overview
A senior or lead avionics technician supervises avionics maintenance operations, mentors junior staff, and ensures regulatory compliance across projects. They take a leadership role in diagnosing complex issues and overseeing system upgrades.
Senior/Lead Avionics Technician Responsibilities
- Lead diagnostics, repairs, and upgrades of aircraft avionics systems
- Train and supervise junior technicians on best practices and procedures
- Ensure compliance with FAA, manufacturer, and internal documentation standards
- Coordinate system integration and troubleshooting across departments
- Approve repair records and assist in inspections or audits
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced troubleshooting and systems integration knowledge
- Expertise in digital/analog systems, software uploads, and configuration tools
Soft skills
- Leadership and team coordination skills
- Strong written and verbal communication
Educational requirements
- Associate’s degree in avionics, electronics, or aviation maintenance
Certifications
- FAA repairman certificate or A&P with avionics endorsement required
- FCC GROL required
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in avionics troubleshooting and maintenance
- Experience with FAR Part 135 or Part 145 operations
- OEM certification in avionics systems
Contract Avionics Technician
Position Overview
A contract avionics technician delivers short-term or project-based avionics support for aircraft inspections, installations, or retrofits. These technicians are highly adaptable and expected to integrate quickly into maintenance operations.
Contract Avionics Technician Responsibilities
- Complete avionics inspections and installations per assigned projects
- Diagnose and resolve system faults using OEM and diagnostic software
- Ensure proper documentation and compliance with FAA standards
- Support hangar, ramp, or line maintenance operations
- Travel between sites as needed for scheduled or AOG assignments
Requirements
Hard skills
- Skilled in testing and troubleshooting avionics wiring, connectors, and modules
- Able to interpret MRO documents and work orders independently
Soft skills
- Flexible and efficient under tight deadlines
- Comfortable with frequent task changes and high-pressure environments
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or equivalent training in avionics/electronics
Certifications
- FAA A&P or repairman certificate preferred
- FCC GROL preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 3+ years in commercial, business, or military aviation avionics
- Experience with avionics STC installs and software configurations
- Ability to travel or work flexible shifts
Avionics Installation Technician
Position Overview
An avionics installation technician specializes in wiring, mounting, and configuring new avionics systems in aircraft. This role is crucial in upgrades, retrofits, and new aircraft outfitting.
Avionics Installation Technician Responsibilities
- Install avionics equipment such as GPS, radios, transponders, and autopilot systems
- Fabricate wiring harnesses and route cables through aircraft structures
- Perform continuity and system function checks after installation
- Ensure installations meet FAA and manufacturer standards
- Document completed installs and perform return-to-service procedures if authorized
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with avionics wiring, connector crimping, and bonding techniques
- Skilled in using tools like multimeters, wiring testers, and torque drivers
Soft skills
- High attention to installation detail and alignment
- Ability to follow detailed diagrams and installation manuals
Educational requirements
- Technical diploma or associate degree in avionics or electronics
Certifications
- FAA repairman certificate preferred
- FCC GROL may be required for certain installs
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in avionics installation or retrofits
- Familiarity with STCs and aircraft modification documentation
- OEM training or past work with fleet upgrade programs