Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

What Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians Do

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 their employer

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 hand tools

•          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 hand tools, 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 Power plant (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

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. 

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

•   Scheduled air transportation 
• Support activities for air transportation (including airports)
• Aerospace products and parts manufacturing
• Federal government, excluding postal service
• Nonscheduled air transportation

The following industries employed the largest numbers of avionics technicians:

• Aerospace products and parts manufacturing
• Support activities for air transportation (including airports)
•   Federal government, excluding postal service
•   Scheduled air transportation
•    Navigational, measuring, electro medical, and control instruments manufacturing

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.

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 shifts. 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 mechanics and avionics technicians must be certified according to the requirements of the local regulators.  Most mechanics learn their trade at an Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School.

Education and Training

Coursework normally lasts 18 to 24 months and provides training with the tools and equipment used on the job.

Some 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

Local regulators requires that aircraft maintenance be done by certified mechanics or under the supervision of a supervised mechanic. Regulators  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 of the age specified by the regulator, be fluent in the language used locally, and have experience working on airframes and engines. However, completion of a program at an Aviation Maintenance Technician School approved by the local regulator 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. 

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.

A bachelor’s degree has become increasingly important for career advancement, some mechanics continue their education.

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.

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Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician

What Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians Do

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians work to make sure that testing goes smoothly.

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians operate and maintain equipment used in testing new aircraft and spacecraft. Increasingly, their job requires programming and running computer simulations that test new designs. Their work is critical in preventing the failure of key parts of new aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. They also help in quality assurance, testing, and operation of high-technology equipment used in producing aircraft and the systems that go into the aircraft.

Duties

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians typically do the following:

Make sure that test procedures go smoothly and safely

Operate and calibrate computer systems to comply with test requirements

Record data from test parts and assemblies

Meet with aerospace engineers to discuss details and implications of test procedures

Build and maintain test facilities for aircraft systems

Make and install parts and systems to be tested

Install instruments in aircraft and spacecraft              

Monitor and assure quality in producing systems that go into the aircraft           

New aircraft designs undergo years of testing before they are put into service because the failure of key parts during flight can be fatal. As part of the job, technicians often calibrate test equipment, such as wind tunnels, and determine causes of equipment malfunctions. They also may program and run computer simulations that test new designs.

Work Environment

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians install instruments in aircraft and spacecraft.

They usually work full time in laboratories, offices, and manufacturing or industrial plants. Many are exposed to hazards from equipment or from toxic materials, but incidents are rare as long as proper procedures are followed.

Industries that employed the largest numbers of aerospace engineering and operations technicians include:

Aerospace products and parts manufacturing
Navigational, measuring, electrometrical, and control instruments manufacturing
Architectural, engineering, and related services
Scheduled air transportation
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians are physically active in constructing the designs that aerospace engineers develop. Consequently, these technicians often work directly in manufacturing or industrial plants, where they help to assemble aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft away from an office environment.

How to Become an Aerospace Engineering or Operations Technician

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians work to prevent the failure of key parts of new aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles.

An associate’s degree is becoming increasingly desired by employers of aerospace engineering and operations technicians, although vocational programs that grant certificates or diplomas also offer good preparation. Some aerospace engineering and operations technicians work on projects that are related to national defense.

Education

High school students interested in becoming an aerospace engineering and operations technician should take classes in math, science, and, if available, drafting. Courses that help students develop skills working with their hands also are valuable, because these technicians build what aerospace engineers design. Employers also want these technicians to have a basic understanding of computers and programs to model or simulate products.

Vocational-technical schools include postsecondary public institutions that emphasize training needed by local employers. Students who complete these programs typically receive a diploma or certificate. 

Important Qualities

Communication skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians receive instructions from aerospace engineers. Consequently, they must be able to understand and follow the instructions, as well as communicate any problems to their supervisors.

Critical-thinking skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians must be able to help aerospace engineers figure out why a particular design does not work as planned. They must be able to evaluate system capabilities, identify problems, formulate the right question, and then to find the right answer.

Detail oriented. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians make and keep precise measurements needed by aerospace engineers. Consequently, they must make correct measurements and keep accurate records.

Interpersonal skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians must be able to take instruction and offer advice. An ability to work well with supervising engineers, other technicians, and mechanics is critical as technicians increasingly interact with people from other divisions, businesses, and governments.

Math skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians use the principals of mathematics for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.

Technical skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians must be able to help aerospace engineers by building what the engineers design and helping with the processes and directions required to move from design to production. They must have both the hands-on skills of mechanics and some technical knowledge of aerospace engineering.

Certification

Although certification is not required, skills-based certification programs help students prepare for certification. Certification may be beneficial because it shows employers that a technician can carry out the theoretical designs of aerospace engineers.

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Adult Literacy and GED Teachers

What Adult Literacy and GED Teachers Do

Adult literacy and GED teachers need to use different teaching strategies to meet their students’ needs.

Adult literacy and General Education Development (GED) teachers instruct adults and youths who are out of school in basic skills, such as reading, writing, and speaking English. They also help students earn their GED or high school diploma.

Duties

• Adult literacy and GED teachers typically do the following:
• Evaluate students' strengths and weaknesses
• Plan and teach lessons to help students gain the knowledge and skills they need to meet their goals, such as learning English or getting their GED
• Emphasize skills that will help students find jobs, such as learning English words and phrases used in the workplace
• Work with each student to challenge him or her and overcome the student’s weaknesses
• Assess students for possible learning disabilities
• Monitor students' progress toward their goals
• Help students develop study skills 
• Connect students to other resources in their community, such as mental health services or job placement services

Before students enter these education programs, their educational level and skills are assessed. Sometimes the teachers do this assessment, but in many cases another staff member does it.

In many programs, the teacher then works with other staff members to use information from the assessment and information about the student’s goals to develop an individualized educational program (IEP).

Teachers must formally evaluate their students periodically to determine their progress and potential to go on to the next level. However, they informally evaluate their students' progress continually.

Adult literacy and GED teachers often have students of various levels in their classes. As a result, teachers need to use teaching strategies and methods that meet all of their students’ needs. In addition, teachers focus on helping students develop skills they need in the workplace. For example, they may teach students how to read a contract or how to estimate the cost of materials needed to remodel a kitchen. Teachers may work with students in classes or tutor them one-on-one.

There are three basic types of education that adult literacy and GED teachers provide:

Adult basic education classes teach students the basics of reading, writing, and math. Students often enter these classes at or below an eighth-grade level in these subjects. Students generally are 16 years and older and need to gain proficiency in these skills to improve their job situation.

GED and adult secondary education classes prepare students to take the test to earn their GED. Sometimes these classes help students finish the credits necessary for them to earn a high school diploma. Some programs are combined with career preparation programs so that students can earn their GED or high school diploma and a career-related credential at the same time.

Passing the GED means passing five tests: reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. In addition, GED and adult secondary teachers help their students improve their skills in communicating, critical thinking, and problem solving—skills they will need for further education and successful careers.

English as a Second Language (ESL) classes teach students to read, write, and speak English. These classes are sometimes also called English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). People in these classes are recent immigrants to the United States and others whose native language is not English.

ESL teachers often focus on helping their students with practical vocabulary for jobs and daily living. They may also focus on preparing their students to take the citizenship exam.

In one class, an ESL teacher may have students from many different countries and cultures. Because the ESL teacher and the students may not share a common native language, ESL teachers must be creative in fostering communication in the classroom to achieve their education goals

Work Environment

Adult literacy and GED teachers often work in community colleges, community-based organizations, and public schools.

Adult literacy and General Education Development (GED) teachers are often employed by community colleges, community-based organizations, and public schools. Some work in prisons.The following industries employed the most adult literacy and GED teachers:

Elementary and secondary schools; state, local, and private Junior colleges; state, local, and private Other educational services; state, local, and private State and local government, excluding education and hospitals  Students in adult literacy and GED programs attend classes by choice. As a result, they are often highly motivated, which can make teaching them rewarding and satisfying.

Work Schedules

Classes are held at times when students are not at work, so many teachers work in the mornings and evenings.