Avionics Technicians

Install, inspect, test, adjust, or repair avionics equipment, such as radar, radio, navigation, and missile control systems in aircraft or space vehicles.

What you'd actually do

• Test and troubleshoot instruments, components, and assemblies, using circuit testers, oscilloscopes, or voltmeters.
• Keep records of maintenance and repair work.
• Adjust, repair, or replace malfunctioning components or assemblies, using hand tools or soldering irons.
• Install electrical and electronic components, assemblies, and systems in aircraft, using hand tools, power tools, or soldering irons.
• Set up and operate ground support and test equipment to perform functional flight tests of electrical and electronic systems.
• Assemble components such as switches, electrical controls, and junction boxes, using hand tools or soldering irons.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Post-secondary certificate. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).

The feel of the work

Much of the work happens outdoors; much of the day is spent working solo; time pressure is a real part of the job. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 0% of avionics technicians are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are hands-on, organized and detail-focused and analytical.

Related careers

• Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
• First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
• Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
• Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers
• Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
• Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers

Quick questions

How much does a avionics technician make?

The median pay is $39.56 per hour — roughly $82,500 a year, with the real range running from about $23.75/hr (10th percentile) to $54.65/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a avionics technician?

The typical entry-level education is: Post-secondary certificate. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).

What does a avionics technician actually do all day?

Test and troubleshoot instruments, components, and assemblies, using circuit testers, oscilloscopes, or voltmeters. Keep records of maintenance and repair work. Adjust, repair, or replace malfunctioning components or assemblies, using hand tools or soldering irons.