Aircraft Instrument, Electrical and Avionics Mechanics, Technicians and Inspectors

This unit group includes mechanics and technicians who install, adjust, repair and overhaul aircraft instrument, electrical or avionics systems on aircraft. This unit group also includes avionics inspectors who inspect instrument, electrical and avionics systems following assembly, modification, repair or overhaul. Workers in this unit group are employed by aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul establishments and by airlines, the armed forces and other aircraft operators.

Example Titles

aircraft electrical technician
aircraft electrician
aircraft instrument mechanic
aircraft maintenance engineer (AME) - avionics
avionics technician
inspector, avionics
instrument inspector, aircraft
instrument overhaul and repair mechanic - avionics



Main duties

The following is a summary of main duties for some occupations in this unit group:

• Aircraft instrument mechanics and technicians repair and overhaul, install, calibrate and test aircraft instruments.
• Aircraft electrical mechanics and technicians repair and overhaul, modify, install and test aircraft electrical systems and equipment
• Avionics mechanics and technicians. troubleshoot, repair and overhaul, test, modify, install and inspect aircraft electronic systems and components including communications, navigation, and autoflight equipment.
• Avionics inspectors inspect and test aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics systems and ensure that the installation, maintenance, repair and overhaul of these systems meet the company standards of performance and safety.

Aircraft mechanics and technicians who work in repair and overhaul shops service and test electrical, electronic and instrument components. Avionics mechanics and technicians who work in maintenance hangars troubleshoot, repair, install and inspect aircraft systems and components.

Employment requirements

• Aircraft instrument and avionics mechanics and technicians require completion of a two- to three-year college program in avionics or electronics.
• Aircraft electrical mechanics and technicians require completion of a college program as an electrical or electronic technician.
• Four years of on-the-job or company apprenticeship training is required for all mechanics and technicians in this unit group.
• Avionics inspectors require completion of a two- to three-year college program in avionics or electronics, and three to five years of experience as an avionics mechanic or technician.
• Industry certification is available for some occupations in this unit group.