How to Be Aerospace Production Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 15, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The need for Aerospace Production Technicians has increased significantly in recent years, due to the growing demand for air travel and aerospace engineering. This has led to an increase in the number of aerospace-related jobs available, which has in turn created a need for highly-skilled technicians who can produce and maintain aerospace components. As a result of this demand, Aerospace Production Technicians must possess a variety of skills and knowledge, including mechanical aptitude, knowledge of electrical systems, and strong problem-solving skills.

they must be familiar with quality control processes and safety protocols in order to ensure the parts they produce meet industry standards. The successful production of aerospace components is essential to the success of the aerospace industry and requires the competent work of Aerospace Production Technicians.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require at least a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED, to become an aerospace production technician.
Consider enrolling in a postsecondary aerospace technology program. Many community colleges and technical schools offer 1- and 2-year programs in aerospace technology. Programs may combine classroom study with hands-on work experience.
Gain experience. Many employers prefer to hire aerospace production technicians who have had some experience. Consider applying for an internship or apprenticeship with an aerospace production facility.
Obtain certification. The National Institute for Aviation Research offers a certification program for aerospace production technicians. To obtain certification, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of the aerospace industry and its production processes.
Apply for an entry-level position with an aerospace production facility. Many aerospace production technicians start out in entry-level positions, such as machine operators or assemblers. As you gain experience, you may be able to move up to higher-level positions, such as quality control supervisors or production managers.

As an Aerospace Production Technician, it is important to be reliable and competent in order to ensure the highest quality of production. To achieve this, one must stay up to date with the latest industry standards and regulations, maintain a thorough understanding of their equipment, and have an eye for detail when making precision measurements. they should be able to work productively and efficiently, taking into account safety practices as well as the importance of meeting deadlines.

Finally, working collaboratively with other technicians, engineers, and managers is essential for success in this field. By being reliable and competent, Aerospace Production Technicians can ensure that their production meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

You may want to check Aerospace Technician Supervisor, Aerospace Designer, and Aerospace Logistics Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Operate and maintain aerospace production machinery and equipment
Clean, inspect and calibrate aircraft parts and components
Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and schematics to understand production specifications
Assemble and install aerospace components and systems
Monitor production processes and make adjustments as needed
Document production processes and results
Troubleshoot and repair production machinery and equipment
Monitor inventory levels of production supplies
Ensure quality control procedures are followed
Follow safety regulations and wear protective gear

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of engineering principles and procedures related to aerospace production
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and schematics
Experience using various tools and machinery for manufacturing processes
Understanding of quality control standards and procedures
Proficiency in the use of computer aided design (CAD) software
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
Basic math and science skills
Ability to work independently and follow instructions
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Safety consciousness

Having a solid skill set as an Aerospace Production Technician is essential in order to be successful. The ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, schematics and technical manuals is paramount. The technician must also be able to troubleshoot, diagnose, repair and maintain complex and expensive equipment.

Attention to detail and a strong attention to safety are key components of the job. Computer literacy is also necessary to be able to use software programs to track maintenance and record keeping. Finally, strong communication skills are needed to interact with co-workers and supervisors in order to ensure that all tasks are completed safely, on time, and with accuracy.

Having these skills will help an Aerospace Production Technician have a successful and long career in this field.

Aerospace Technician, Aerospace Component Engineer, and Aerospace Mechanical Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with metal fabrication machinery?
How do you stay organized when managing multiple production tasks?
What methods have you used to ensure accuracy in your work?
Describe a situation in which you had to troubleshoot a malfunctioning piece of equipment.
What safety protocols do you follow when operating machinery?
How do you stay on top of the latest developments in aerospace production technology?
What techniques do you use to stay focused and productive when dealing with long shifts?
What strategies would you implement if production output needs to be increased?
How do you handle stress when meeting tight deadlines?
How have you used your problem solving skills to overcome production challenges?

Common Tools in Industry

Drill Press. A machine tool which uses a drill bit to bore holes into metal, wood or other materials. (eg: Drill Press, 3/4 inch capacity)
Lathe. A machine tool which rotates a workpiece on its axis to perform various operations such as cutting, sanding, knurling, drilling, or deformation. (eg: CNC Lathe, 10-inch swing)
Milling Machine. A machine tool which uses a milling cutter to machine various surfaces of a workpiece. (eg: CNC Milling Machine, 5-axis)
Grinder. A machine tool which uses an abrasive wheel to cut or shape material. (eg: Bench Grinder, 8-inch wheel)
Routers. A machine tool which uses a rotating cutting tool to shape and trim material. (eg: CNC Router, 4-axis)
Welders. A machine tool which joins two pieces of metal or other materials by applying heat. (eg: MIG Welder, aluminum compatible)
Saws. A machine tool which uses a saw blade to cut material. (eg: Table Saw, 10-inch blade)
Crimpers. A machine tool which is used to crimp or shape metal or plastic parts. (eg: Pneumatic Crimper, 0-3/4 inch capacity)
Presses. A machine tool which uses a press to form or shape material. (eg: Hydraulic Press, 10-ton capacity)
Sandblaster. A machine tool which uses a stream of abrasive particles to clean, polish or shape surfaces. (eg: Abrasive Sandblaster, 20-gallon capacity)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aerospace Industries Association
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
National Aeronautic Association
Society of Automotive Engineers
International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences
International Society of Air Safety Investigators
Royal Aeronautical Society
Society of Experimental Test Pilots
American Helicopter Society
Unmanned Vehicle Systems International

We also have Aerospace Technical Writer, Aerospace Data Analyst, and Aerospace Business Development Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Aerospace Engineering. The branch of engineering that focuses on the development and design of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related systems.
Quality Control. The process of ensuring that products meet certain standards of quality.
Machining. The process of cutting or shaping materials using a machine tool.
Assembly. The process of putting parts together to make a complete product.
CAD/CAM Technology. Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology used to create complex designs and parts.
Fabrication. The production of components from raw materials through various processes such as cutting, forming, and welding.
Finishing. The final stages of production including cleaning, polishing, and painting of parts.
Blueprint Reading. The interpretation of blueprints for use in the production of parts and components.
Process Troubleshooting. The process of identifying and addressing problems with the production process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an Aerospace Production Technician? A1: An Aerospace Production Technician is a professional who is responsible for inspecting and assembling aircraft components, ensuring that all parts meet safety and quality standards. Q2: What skills are required for an Aerospace Production Technician? A2: An Aerospace Production Technician must have knowledge of aircraft composites, aviation systems, tools and equipment, welding, CNC machining, and problem-solving skills. Q3: What type of training is needed to become an Aerospace Production Technician? A3: Entry-level Aerospace Production Technicians typically need a high school diploma or GED and on-the-job training. More advanced positions may require additional education or certifications. Q4: What are some of the duties of an Aerospace Production Technician? A4: An Aerospace Production Technician's duties may include inspecting aircraft parts, assembling components, testing systems, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining records of production. Q5: What is the average salary of an Aerospace Production Technician? A5: The average salary of an Aerospace Production Technician is approximately $50,000 per year.