What does an Avionics Technician do?
Avionics technicians repair and maintain a plane's electronic instruments, including radio communication devices and equipment, radar systems, and navigation aids. They inspect, install, test, and repair systems and ensure they all function properly. They generally work on the communication, navigation, and flight control systems that power the aircraft and the wiring that connects them. They install and test complex avionics equipment in electrical systems and ensure that all avionics equipment works appropriately before takeoff and will not interfere with any other electronic device aboard the aircraft.
They remove, repair, and reinstall problematic equipment before aircraft can take off and perform intricate soldering on navigation, missile control, and communication components. They assemble and install electrical components and provide an accurate diagnosis of difficult avionics problems and issues. Avionics technicians coordinate all work with engineers, technicians, and aircraft maintenance staff and keep detailed records of all repairs and work performed on the aircraft. Avionics technicians need a bachelor's or associate's degree in avionics or aviation technology and certification in electrical engineering or aviation maintenance.
- Test and maintain test equipment, electronic systems, and components.
- Provide technical guidance and direct lower-level technicians to complete assigned tasks.
- Conduct defined engineering tests and collect data as assigned.
- Perform and comply with engineering changes and modifications as required.
- Help train operations personnel in the proper use and care of related equipment.
- Practice safe work behaviors, including lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) to remove and install instruments from service.
- Fabricate, install and test installation, routing, clamping and wiring harnesses.
- Perform aircraft inspections in accordance with FAA regulations and operating limitations.
- Utilize external vendors to maintain a set of internal calibration reference standards.
- Perform monthly, quarterly and annual QC checks on the equipment.
- Prepare and finalize aircraft maintenance entries and work orders.
- Bachelor's Degree in engineering.
- Advanced experience with aircraft avionics.
- Strong command of English language.
- Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning programs.
- In-depth familiarity with aircraft systems.
Avionics Technician Salaries
Average Base Pay
Avionics Technician Career Path
Learn how to become an Avionics Technician, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Avionics Technician Insights
Dallas Airmotive“Its a great job starting out in aviation but its basically a dead end job in the shop.”
Wisconsin Air National Guard“The opportunity to change your career if it's not the right fit for you.”
US Air Force“Great for people who are technical and love to solve problems.”
JT4“Be prepared for long hours and many external factors outside of anyone's control impacting your schedule.”
Stambaugh Aviation“Good good good good good”
Ammroc“Good pay uae is nice”
Royal Air Force“money in splashed on unimportant projects whilst telling everyone there is no money for pay rises or infrastructure”
Avionics Specialist“Awesome people to work with and willing to teach”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of an Avionics Technician
When working as an Avionics Technician, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Aircraft Avionics, Test Equipment, English Language, Windows Operating Systems and Aircraft Systems.
- Electronics Technician
- Service Technician
- Automotive Technician
- Technician
The most common qualifications to become an Avionics Technician is a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.