Avionics Technician

Your Fit

Income

$82K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

4.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Avionics Technician?

Avionics Technicians specialize in the maintenance, repair, and installation of aviation electronics, including communication, navigation, and flight control systems. They play a critical role in ensuring the safety and functionality of aircraft electronics.

Sample job titles:

Aviation Electrical Technician, Avionics Electronics Technician, Avionics Installer, Avionics Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Avionics Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Avionics Technician earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Avionics Technician.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$46K per year	$64K per year	$82K per year	$104K per year	$137K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $17K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does an Avionics Technician do?

Work environment

These technicians typically work in hangars, repair shops, or airfields associated with airports. The environment can be fast-paced and may require working under tight schedules, especially in commercial aviation. Safety is a paramount concern, and technicians often work in various positions, including confined spaces within aircraft.

Quick task list

Installs and tests avionics systems, such as radios, navigation instruments, and flight control systems.
Troubleshoots and repairs avionics equipment malfunctions.
Conducts regular maintenance and inspections of avionics systems.
Keeps detailed records of maintenance and repair work.
Updates software in avionics systems and ensures compatibility with existing hardware.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Commercial Aviation Avionics: Working on avionics systems in commercial airliners.
Military Aviation Electronics: Specializing in the avionics used in military aircraft.
General Aviation Avionics: Focusing on small, private aircraft electronics.
Avionics System Integration: Expertise in integrating various avionics systems within an aircraft.

Description

Avionics Technicians are essential in the aviation industry, ensuring that the complex electronic systems in aircraft operate correctly. They need a solid understanding of electronic principles and aircraft systems, along with the ability to read and interpret schematics and technical documents. The role requires precision and attention to detail, as small errors can have significant implications in aviation.

The job involves both routine maintenance and addressing unforeseen issues, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Technicians must keep up with technological advancements in avionics, as new systems and regulations continually evolve. They often work in teams and need good communication skills to coordinate with other maintenance staff and pilots.

The role can be highly rewarding but also demanding. Technicians often work under pressure to meet maintenance schedules and ensure aircraft safety. The satisfaction of maintaining the highest safety standards in one of the most technically advanced fields is a significant aspect of job fulfillment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the safety and efficiency of air travel.
Working with cutting-edge technology in aviation electronics.
The challenge and variety of tasks in maintaining complex avionics systems.

You might make a good Avionics Technician if you are...

Fascinated by both aviation and electronics.
Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to safety.
Skilled in problem-solving and technical troubleshooting.
Interested in continuous learning and adapting to new technologies.
Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Pros:

Working in a technologically advanced field.
High responsibility and impact on aviation safety.
Opportunities for specialization.

Cons:

Potential for high-stress situations.
Demanding work schedules.
Need for ongoing education and training to keep up with technological advancements.

How to become an Avionics Technician

Typical education

In Canada, Avionics Technicians typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized postsecondary training. Many complete a Transport Canada-approved college diploma or certificate program in avionics, aircraft maintenance, or aviation technology, which usually takes 18 to 24 months. After completing formal training, technicians gain supervised on-the-job experience as part of the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) certification pathway. Ongoing training, including manufacturer-specific courses and recurrent safety training, is common to remain current with evolving aircraft systems and technology.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physics and Mathematics: Strong foundation in physics for understanding basic aviation principles and mathematics for problem-solving skills.
Computer Science/Information Technology: Knowledge in computer systems, which is crucial for understanding modern avionic systems.
Electronics or Technical Shop Classes: Introduction to basic electronic principles and hands-on experience with electronic components and tools.
Mechanical Drawing or CAD Classes: Skills in reading and interpreting technical drawings and schematics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Join Robotics Club: Provides experience with electronics, mechanics, and computer programming.
Participate in Model Aviation Club: Introduces basics of aerodynamics and aviation mechanics.
Seek Internships or Part-time Jobs in Electronics or Mechanical Workshops: Provides practical experience in working with tools and technology related to avionics.

Preparation after high school

Degrees and Courses

College Diploma or Certificate Program: Complete a Transport Canada-approved avionics, aircraft maintenance, or aviation technology program at a college or technical institute. These programs typically cover aircraft electronics, navigation and communication systems, aviation safety, and Canadian aviation regulations.
Transport Canada-Approved Training: In Canada, avionics technicians follow the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) pathway. Training programs must be approved by Transport Canada, not the FAA.

Experience

Apprenticeship / On-the-Job Training: Gain required practical experience working under the supervision of licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs), including avionics specialists.
Military Training: Military service can provide recognized avionics training and experience that may count toward civilian certification requirements.
Ongoing Education and Certifications: Continue professional development through manufacturer-specific training, new aircraft systems courses, and recurrent safety training to stay current with evolving aviation technology.

More resources

Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) - Offers training and certification resources for avionics technicians.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Provides regulatory information and guidelines for avionics and aircraft maintenance.
Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) - Focuses on the education and training of aviation maintenance technicians.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - A tool for career exploration and job analysis in avionics technology.
National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) - Offers certifications and standards for avionics professionals.
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA) - Provides resources, networking, and professional development opportunities for aviation maintenance professionals.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.