Avionics technicians must know how to fix and maintain aircraft electronics. They must also know how to work with computers and software programs. After completing training, they can apply for the airframe rating. This license allows them to work on any type of plane.
Aviation mechanics (see also “How Much Do Aviation Mechanics Make?“) and service technicians usually attend a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. Schools offer certificates of completion that allow students to take the FAA exams.
Students who complete these courses can then work on any type of airplane.
Advancement opportunities come as you gain more experience. You can advance to lead mechanic, inspector, or supervisor. You need an inspection authorization to be eligible for these jobs. Your license/certification will help you get hired.
The median pay for this occupation is $35,000 per year.
Aircraft maintenance technicians earn an average annual salary of $50,000. The great thing about training in this industry is that you can also use this skill set in other careers such as construction, engineering, or even law enforcement.
With over 100,000 jobs available, airplane mechanics are in high demand right now.
There are many different types of aircraft mechanic positions available. Some work for airlines, while others work for private jets. A few even work for military aircraft. Training for airplane mechanics can lead to a variety of career opportunities.
Let’s look at the education requirement in more detail.
Education
People who want to become avionics technicians must take three exams: a written test, an oral test, and a practical test.
To become certified as an avionics technician, students must meet certain requirements including being at least eighteen years old, having a high school diploma or GED, speaking English, and having the necessary technical skills to do airplane maintenance.
Potential technicians can learn the required technical skill for airplane maintenance at one FAA certified aviation maintenance technician school.
Minimum requirements to graduate the program include taking 1800 hours of classes and training and completing the course within one year.
The program teaches students how to become avionics technicians by providing hands-on training with similar equipment used for certified technicians.
An alternative route for becoming an avionics technician includes apprenticing under a mechanic or receiving aircraft maintenance instruction in the armed forces (see also “How To Become An Aircraft Broker“). A candidate should know about the latest technology so he/she can be successful.
Technology is constantly changing, and if a person doesn’t stay up-to-date with new developments, he or she may lose out on opportunities.
Entry-Level
As of Mar 29, 2022 entry-level avionics technicians make about $937 per week or $4,056 per month. That’s less than half what the average entry-level tech makes today.
And while some people earn more than others, most entry-level techs earn around $36,500-$57,000 per year. Top earners get paid even more.
For example, there are many entry-level avionics technicians in South Carolina who make $44,179 per annum. This is lower than the national average of $48,702 per annum.
Job Description
Avionics technicians spend most of their time in airports or repair stations. They use computerized equipment to diagnose potential plane malfunctions.
The complex structure of planes requires them to use sophisticated equipment to provide maintenance and repairs to the planes’ electrical and electronic systems.
They analyze and create solutions for any potential problems with the electronic or electric systems. They fix or replace any spotted malfunctioned parts
An Avionics Technician must be skilled in many areas including computer skills, mechanical skills, electrical skills, troubleshooting skills, and communication skills. He or she should also be able to work well under pressure.
Repairs can take place within a certain amount of hours or days depending on the situation. If there is a scheduled flight then the technician needs to arrange for the repairs immediately.
Avionics technicians are also responsible for making sure that planes are ready for take-off on time. Millions of people rely on them to ensure that planes are safe to fly. An avionics technician must be able to fix airplanes quickly and accurately.
Career Path
Avionics technicians make about $52,000 per year on average. A newbie starts at about $36,000. Experienced technicians get paid up to $67,500 annually. Those who go to school to become avionics techs make more money than those who learn on the job.
A career as an avionics technician requires a bachelor’s degree. With this degree, you get training in aviation maintenance and repair. You also learn how to work on aircraft electronics and systems.
This includes working on navigation systems, flight control systems, and other components. You may be responsible for troubleshooting problems or fixing equipment.
You must pass tests to become an avionics technician. These tests include written exams, hands-on tasks, and interviews. Some employers require applicants to take additional classes before hiring them.
Hours
Mechanics and technicians who work long hours earn more money than those who do not. Overtime pay is available when there are extra hours worked. Weekend work is also possible.
Tax Implications
Average bonuses for Certified Avionics Technicians are high. Most people get a bonus every year. In San Francisco, the highest average salaries go to Certified Avionics Technicians.
There are about 2 million people employed by the aviation industry. Their average annual pay is around $50k. This number includes both full-time and part-time employees. About 10% of them make over $100k per year.
An individual filing as a CPT could expect to make $50,000 per year after taking into account a 22% federal tax rate. Federal taxes are calculated based on 2018 federal tax tables and 2018 state tax tables.
Benefits Of Working In Aviation
Whether you decide to train to be an avionic technician or something else, the aviation industry has a wealth of benefits. Airports are busy places where many different jobs exist.
There are several types of roles within airports, such as Customer Service, Security, Cargo Handling, Flight Operations, Engineering, IT etc.
These jobs require varying degrees of skill and knowledge, and some employees may need further training. Some roles are very physically demanding, while others are less physical. Employees who work in these roles may be required to work long shifts, often overnight.
However, the flexibility of the role means that employees are generally happy in their position.
Working in the airline industry is a great opportunity to learn globally transferable skills. Whether your job is long term or short term, you’ll learn valuable skills about customer service, human resources, people management, teamwork and many others.
Your work will combine with airports as a whole to create an effective system.
If you’re working in a more technical role, you’ll learn skills that apply to almost any industry. Employers value these skills because they help employees adapt to new environments.
Aviation also offers a range of company and lifestyle incentives. You’ll be offered above-average pay, reductions in holiday airport parking, subsidize commuter rail travel, cycle schemes, pay rises and additional holiday entitlement for long-serving workers.
Your airline employer may also offer discounts on high street stores, restaurants and leisure facilities, and provide discounted healthcare services and subsidized child care.
An airport is a hub of technology and machinery. It requires many different types of engineering skills. A wide range of technical roles exists within airports. Aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic control staff and computer system technicians are some examples of jobs available.
These roles require many years of experience, but there are opportunities for those with less experience. Apprenticeships and training programs are also available.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a plethora of reasons to get started on your aviation career. Exciting times!
I decided to create this source of knowledge from my own experiences, in the hopes of helping budding pilots to get through their training.
So, if you’re thinking about becoming a pilot or are in the middle of your training, I hope that this website and my knowledge comes of some benefit to you. I’d love to think that my website made your experience a little less stressful and a lot more fun!
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