Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

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Summary

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians
Airplane mechanics ensure that a plane’s operating system is in safe working order.
Quick Facts: Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians
2010 Median Pay $53,220 per year
$25.59 per hour
Entry-Level Education Postsecondary non-degree award
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training None
Number of Jobs, 2010 142,300
Job Outlook, 2010-20 6% (Slower than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 9,100

What Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians Do

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on airplanes and helicopters. They also inspect airplanes and helicopters as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Work Environment

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians work in hangars, in repair stations, or on airfields. To maintain flight schedules, they must often meet strict deadlines. The work can be noisy from loud aircraft engines.  Workers must often bend, stoop, and reach from ladders and scaffolds. Most mechanics and technicians work full time, and overtime and weekend work is common.

How to Become an Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic or Technician

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians must be certified by the FAA. Most mechanics learn their trade at an FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School.

Pay

In May 2010, the median annual wage of aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $53,420, and the median annual wage of avionics technicians was $52,320.

Job Outlook

Employment of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is projected to grow 6 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. Job prospects will be best for mechanics who hold an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate and a bachelor’s degree in aircraft maintenance.

Similar Occupations

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians with similar occupations.

O*NET

O*NET provides comprehensive information on key characteristics of workers and occupations.

Contacts for More Information

Learn more about aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians by contacting these additional resources.

What Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians Do About this section

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians
An airplane mechanic repairs an engine.

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on airplanes and helicopters. They also inspect airplanes and helicopters as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Duties

Aircraft mechanics typically do the following:

  • Examine aircraft frames and parts for defects
  • Diagnose mechanical or electrical problems
  • Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments
  • Read maintenance manuals to identify methods of repair
  • Repair wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components
  • Replace defective parts, using handtools
  • Test aircraft parts with gauges and other diagnostic equipment
  • Inspect completed work to ensure that it meets performance standards
  • Keep records of maintenance and repair work

Avionics technicians typically do the following:

  • Test electronic instruments, using circuit testers, oscilloscopes, and voltmeters
  • Interpret flight test data to diagnose malfunctions and performance problems
  • Assemble components, such as electrical controls and junction boxes
  • Install instrument panels, using handtools, power tools, and soldering irons
  • Repair or replace malfunctioning components
  • Keep records of maintenance and repair work

Today’s airplanes are highly complex machines that require reliable parts and service to fly safely. To keep an airplane in peak operating condition, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians do scheduled maintenance, make repairs, and complete inspections.

Some mechanics work on many different types of aircraft, such as jets, propeller-driven airplanes, and helicopters. Others specialize in one section of a particular type of aircraft, such as the engine, hydraulics, or electrical system of a jet. In small, independent repair shops, mechanics usually inspect and repair many different types of aircraft.

Most mechanics who work on civilian aircraft have the FAA’s Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate. Mechanics who have this certificate are authorized to work on any part of the aircraft, except electronic flight instruments. Maintaining a plane’s electronic flight instruments is the job of avionics technicians.

The following are types of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians:

Maintenance mechanics specialize in preventive maintenance and inspect aircraft. Every aircraft must be inspected regularly. The schedule for inspection may be based on hours flown, days since the last inspection, trips flown, or a combination of these factors.

Maintenance mechanics inspect aircraft engines, landing gear, instruments, brakes, air conditioning systems, and other parts. They use precision instruments to measure wear and replace worn out parts.

They inspect a plane’s exterior and repair metal sheets. They may use x rays and magnetic inspection equipment to check for cracks that can't be seen. They check for corrosion, distortion, and cracks in the aircraft's main body, wings, and tail.

In planes equipped with aircraft monitoring systems, mechanics can gather valuable diagnostic information from electronic consoles. After completing all repairs, mechanics must test the equipment to ensure that it works properly. Mechanics also must keep records of all maintenance that they do on an aircraft.

Repair mechanics specialize in repair work rather than inspection. They find and fix problems that pilots describe. For example, during a preflight check, a pilot may discover that the aircraft's fuel gauge is not working. Mechanics must figure out the problem and replace any defective electrical parts. They must work as fast as safety permits so that the aircraft can be put back into service quickly.

Avionic technicians repair and maintain a plane’s electronic systems, such as radio communications, radar systems, and flight instruments. As the use of automated technology increases, more time is spent maintaining a plane’s computer systems. Technicians are often needed to analyze and solve complex electronic problems.

Work Environment About this section

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians
Airplane mechanics often have to climb, reach, and balance on a plane’s exterior.

Aircraft mechanics and avionic technicians held about 142,300 jobs in 2010. Approximately 87 percent were mechanics and the rest were avionic technicians. The majority worked for private companies and about 15 percent worked for the federal government.

Employment of aircraft mechanics and avionic technicians is concentrated in a small number of industries. In 2010, the following industries employed the largest numbers of aircraft mechanics:

Scheduled air transportation26%
Support activities for air transportation (including airports)23
Aerospace products and parts manufacturing16
Federal government, excluding postal service16
Nonscheduled air transportation4

In 2010, the following industries employed the largest numbers of avionics technicians:

Aerospace products and parts manufacturing31%
Support activities for air transportation (including airports)26
Federal government, excluding postal service12
Scheduled air transportation11
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing4

Approximately 28 percent of mechanics and technicians belong to unions, including the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association.

Mechanics and technicians work in hangars, in repair stations, or on airfields. They must often meet strict deadlines to maintain flight schedules. At the same time, they must maintain safety standards, and doing both can cause stress.

Most mechanics and technicians work near major airports. Airline mechanics often work outside, on the airfield, while repair and corporate mechanics work in climate-controlled shops. Civilian mechanics employed by the U.S. Armed Forces work on military installations.

Injuries

Mechanics often lift heavy objects, handle dangerous chemicals, or operate large power tools. They frequently stand, lie, or kneel in awkward positions and work on scaffolds or ladders. Noise and vibrations are common when engines are being tested, so ear protection is necessary.

Because airline mechanics work outside, they must often endure hot and cold temperatures. Although their work is not inherently dangerous, aircraft mechanics and service technicians experience rates of injuries and illnesses that are higher than the average across all occupations.

Work Schedules

Mechanics and technicians usually work full time on rotating 8-hour shifts. Overtime and weekend work is common. Day shifts are usually reserved for mechanics with the most seniority.

How to Become an Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic or Technician About this section

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians
An airplane mechanic prepares to refuel a plane.

Aircraft mechanics and avionic technicians must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Most mechanics learn their trade at an FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School.

Education and Training

Most mechanics and technicians learn their trade at an FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School. Coursework normally lasts 18 to 24 months and provides training with the tools and equipment used on the job.

About one-third of these schools award 2- or 4-year degrees in avionics, aviation technology, or aviation maintenance management. Increasingly, employers are looking more favorably on those with a bachelor’s degree.

Aircraft trade schools are placing more emphasis on technologies being used in new airplanes, such as turbine engines, composite materials, and aviation electronics. These technical advances require mechanics to have stronger backgrounds in composite materials and electronics.

Courses in mathematics, physics, chemical engineering, electronics, computer science, and mechanical drawing are helpful because they teach the principles involved in operating an airplane. Mechanics often need this knowledge to figure out what is wrong and how to fix it.

Courses that develop writing, communication, and management skills are important for mechanics who want to move into senior positions.

Certification

The FAA requires that aircraft maintenance be done by certified mechanics or under the supervision of a supervised mechanic. The FAA offers separate certifications for airframe mechanics and engine mechanics, but most airlines prefer to hire mechanics with a combined Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate.

To qualify, mechanics must be at least 18 years of age, be fluent in English, and have 30 months of experience working on airframes and engines. However, completion of a program at an FAA-Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School can substitute for the experience requirement.

In addition to having experience or formal training, applicants must pass written, oral, and practical exams that demonstrate required skills. Candidates take the written tests on a computer at one of many designated testing facilities around the world. An FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner gives the oral and practical tests. To get the certification, candidates must pass all the tests within two years.

To keep their certification, mechanics must by do an inspection or repair every 90 days and attend a refresher course every 24 months. To fulfill this requirement, mechanics often take classes from their employer or an airplane manufacturer.

The FAA allows certified airframe mechanics to work on avionics equipment. Although there is no avionic-specific certification, avionic technicians must have the required training and tools. Many avionics technicians gain the necessary experience from military training, from a technical school, or by working for an avionics manufacturer. Avionics technicians who work on communications equipment must have a restricted radio-telephone operator license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Advancement

As aircraft mechanics gain experience, they may advance to lead mechanic, lead inspector, or shop supervisor. Opportunities are best for those who have an aircraft inspector's authorization. To get an inspector's authorization, a mechanic must have held an A&P certificate for at least 3 years, with 24 months of hands-on experience.

In addition, as a bachelor’s degree has become increasingly important for career advancement, some mechanics continue their education.

Mechanics with broad experience in maintenance and repair might become inspectors with the FAA.

With additional business and management training, some may open their own maintenance facility.

Traditionally, mechanics have advanced from general aviation jobs to airline jobs. Because salaries are similar between general aviation and airline companies, however, mechanics also should consider the work environment as they search for jobs. Although airline jobs come with standby travel perks, these mechanics often have to work outside, whereas mechanics at corporations or repair shops often work in climate-controlled buildings.

Important Qualities

Agility. Mechanics should be able to climb on airplanes, balance, and reach with no fear of heights.

Detail oriented. Mechanics should be able to adjust airplane parts to exact specifications. For example, mechanics often use precision tools to tighten wheel bolts to an exact tension.

Manual dexterity. Mechanics should be able to precisely coordinate the movement of their fingers and hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts.

Technical skills. Mechanics should be able to interpret engine noises, gauges, dials, and other technical instruments to determine whether a plane’s mechanical systems are working properly.

Troubleshooting skills. Mechanics should be able to diagnose complex problems and evaluate options to correct those problems.

Pay About this section

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

Median annual wages, May 2010

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

$53,420

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

$53,220

Avionics Technicians

$52,320

Total, All Occupations

$33,840

 

The median annual wage of aircraft mechanics was $53,420 in May 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent of aircraft mechanics earned less than $33,630, and the top 10 percent earned more than $72,250.

In May 2010, median annual wages in industries employing the largest numbers of aircraft mechanics were as follows:

Scheduled air transportation$56,850
Federal executive branch54,990
Aerospace products and parts manufacturing54,970
Nonscheduled air transportation51,540
Support activities for air transportation (including airports)45,160

The median annual wage of avionics technicians was $52,320 in May 2010. The lowest 10 percent of avionics technicians earned less than $36,810, and the top 10 percent earned more than $67,560.

In May 2010, median annual wages in industries employing the largest numbers of avionics technicians were as follows:

Scheduled air transportation$56,550
Aerospace products and parts manufacturing54,050
Federal executive branch53,140
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing51,120
Support activities for air transportation (including airports)46,160

Mechanics and technicians usually work full time on rotating 8-hour shifts. Overtime and weekend work is often required. Day shifts are usually reserved for mechanics with the most seniority. Mechanics typically receive health and retirement benefits as part of their compensation package.

Job Outlook About this section

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

Percent change in employment, projected 2010-20

Total, All Occupations

14%

Avionics Technicians

7%

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

6%

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

6%

 

Employment of aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians is projected to grow 6 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. 

Modest employment growth is expected as air travel gradually increases over the coming decade. However, as airlines increasingly outsource maintenance work to other countries, employment growth is expected to be limited.  

Job Prospects

Job prospects should be best for mechanics and technicians who hold an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate and a bachelor’s degree in aircraft maintenance. Job prospects also will be better for those who keep up with technical advances in aircraft electronics and composite materials.

Job opportunities may arise from the need to replace mechanics who leave the workforce. Over the next decade, many aircraft mechanics are expected to retire. As older mechanics retire and younger mechanics advance, entry-level positions may open up.

However, if airlines continue to send maintenance work to other countries, competition for new jobs will remain strong.

Employment projections data for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians, 2010-20
Occupational Title SOC Code Employment, 2010 Projected Employment, 2020 Change, 2010-20 Employment by Industry
Percent Numeric

SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

142,300 151,500 6 9,100

Avionics Technicians

49-2091 18,600 19,800 7 1,300 [XLS]

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

49-3011 123,800 131,600 6 7,800 [XLS]

Similar Occupations About this section

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians.

Occupation Job Duties ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION Help 2010 MEDIAN PAY Help
Automotive service technicians and mechanics

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

Automotive service technicians and mechanics, often called service technicians or service techs, inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks.

High school diploma or equivalent $35,790
Automotive body and glass repairers

Automotive Body and Glass Repairers

Automotive body and glass repairers restore, refinish, and replace vehicle bodies and frames, windshields, and window glass.

High school diploma or equivalent $37,580
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers

Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers

Electrical and electronics installers and repairers install, repair, or replace a variety of electrical equipment in telecommunications, transportation, utilities, and other industries.

Postsecondary non-degree award $49,170
Electricians

Electricians

Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.

High school diploma or equivalent $48,250
Electro-mechanical technicians

Electro-mechanical Technicians

Electro-mechanical technicians combine knowledge of mechanical technology with knowledge of electrical and electronic circuits. They install, troubleshoot, repair, and upgrade electronic and computer-controlled mechanical systems, such as robotic assembly machines.

Associate’s degree $49,550
Heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians

Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians

Heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles and machinery used in construction, farming, rail transportation, and other industries.

High school diploma or equivalent $42,630

Contacts for More Information About this section

For more information about aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians, visit

Federal Aviation Administration

Professional Aviation Maintenance Association

Aviation Maintenance magazine

Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association

For additional career information about aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians, see the Occupational Outlook Quarterly article “Sky-high careers: jobs related to airlines.”

For more information about job opportunities, contact an airline company personnel manager, browse the classified section of aviation trade magazines, or contact employers at local airports.

Suggested citation:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians,
on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/aircraft-and-avionics-equipment-mechanics-and-technicians.htm (visited October 02, 2012).

Publish Date: Thursday, March 29, 2012