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

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

Many aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians learn their trade at an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. Others enter with a high school education or equivalent and are trained on the job. Some workers enter the occupation after receiving training in the military. Although not required, aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians typically become licensed or certified.

The median annual wage for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians was $58,390 in May 2015.

Employment of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024. Job prospects will be best for mechanics who hold an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate.

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