How to Be Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 9, 2021   /   6 Minutes Read   /   By Albert
  • How to Become
  • Job Descriptions
  • Skill & Competencies
  • Interview Questions
  • Common Tools
  • Professional Organizations
  • FAQ
  • Links

    • Aircraft electronics and avionics equipment installers and repairers work with a wide range of sophisticated electronic systems on aircraft, from communication systems to autopilot and navigation systems. As the aircraft industry continues to grow and develop, so do the requirements for these highly skilled technicians. An installer or repairer is responsible for ensuring the correct installation and repair of these systems, which can have direct effects on the performance, safety, and reliability of the aircraft.

    As a result, they must possess a deep knowledge of aircraft electronics and avionics, as well as a strong understanding of how to troubleshoot complex systems. Other important related entities include FAA regulations, aircraft manufacturers, and the latest technologies in the industry.

    Steps How to Become

    1. Get a High School Diploma or GED. Before you can become an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED.
    2. Enroll in a Technical School. You will need to enroll in an aviation maintenance program at a technical school or community college that offers training in aircraft electronic systems. You will be trained in the installation, maintenance, and repair of aircraft electronic systems.
    3. Obtain an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License. In order to become an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer, you will need to obtain an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license. This license verifies that you are qualified to work on aircraft.
    4. Get On-the-Job Experience. You will need to get on-the-job experience by working as an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer. You will need to be familiar with the maintenance and repair of various aircraft electronic systems.
    5. Obtain Additional Certifications. You may want to obtain additional certifications to further your career. You can obtain certifications in specific types of aircraft electronic systems, such as navigation systems or communication systems.

    The aviation industry is constantly evolving and Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installers and Repairers need to stay ahead of the curve in order to stay competent. Keeping up with the latest technologies and advancements in aircraft electronics and avionics is important. Reading industry publications, attending workshops, seminars, and webinars, and networking with colleagues and professionals in the field are all great ways to stay informed.

    having a strong background in mathematics, physics, and electronics, as well as strong problem solving skills and technical aptitude are essential for success in this field. Finally, obtaining certifications from accredited organizations such as the Federal Aviation Administration can help demonstrate expertise and knowledge in aircraft electronics and avionics.

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    Job Description

    1. Install and configure aircraft avionics systems, such as navigation and communication systems, autopilots, and instrument landing systems.
    2. Test and troubleshoot avionics equipment, such as transponders and radar systems.
    3. Repair and maintain aircraft electrical wiring and components.
    4. Monitor aircraft performance and make adjustments to avionics equipment accordingly.
    5. Install navigation systems in aircraft, such as global positioning systems (GPS) and inertial navigation systems (INS).
    6. Inspect aircraft for avionics system compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and other safety standards.
    7. Install new instruments, troubleshoot and repair existing instruments, and replace parts as needed.
    8. Calibrate instruments and verify their accuracy.
    9. Perform routine maintenance on aircraft electronics components, such as antennas, receivers, transmitters, and other equipment.
    10. Create documentation of avionics system configurations and maintenance activities.

    Skills and Competencies to Have

    1. Knowledge of aircraft electronics and avionics equipment, including installation and troubleshooting.
    2. Skilled in the use of aircraft test equipment, including multimeters and oscilloscopes.
    3. Ability to read and understand electrical diagrams, schematics, and technical drawings.
    4. Knowledge of safety procedures for working with electrical systems in aircraft.
    5. Ability to work in a variety of aircraft environments, including pressurized and unpressurized cabins.
    6. Ability to use a variety of hand tools and power tools to complete repairs quickly and accurately.
    7. Ability to accurately diagnose problems in avionics systems and develop solutions to solve them.
    8. Strong communication skills to work with other technicians, customers, and management.
    9. Ability to keep accurate records of all repairs and installations.
    10. Knowledge of FAA regulations and requirements related to aircraft maintenance and repair.

    Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installers and Repairers must possess a variety of technical skills in order to be successful in their role. The most important skill to have is problem solving. These individuals must be able to identify issues, troubleshoot and repair any malfunctions or problems with the aircraft’s avionics system.

    They must also be able to read and understand wiring diagrams, have a strong understanding of electronic theory, and be proficient in the use of test equipment such as oscilloscopes and multimeters. they must be able to install and program aircraft avionics systems using the appropriate software and tools. Having a strong knowledge base of aviation regulations, as well as an understanding of aircraft safety requirements, is also essential for these roles.

    Being able to think quickly and effectively in a fast-paced environment is also necessary for success in this field.

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    Frequent Interview Questions

    • What experience do you have with aircraft electronics and avionics equipment installation and repair?
    • What certifications do you possess related to aircraft electronics and avionics equipment installation and repair?
    • Describe a typical day in your previous role as an aircraft electronics and avionics equipment installer and repairer.
    • How do you troubleshoot and diagnose problems with aircraft electronics and avionics equipment?
    • What safety procedures do you follow when working on aircraft electronics and avionics equipment?
    • How do you stay up-to-date with new technologies related to aircraft electronics and avionics equipment?
    • What strategies do you use to ensure the accuracy of your work when installing and repairing aircraft electronics and avionics equipment?
    • How would you handle a situation where you are unsure of the correct installation or repair procedure for a specific aircraft electronics or avionics device?
    • What challenges have you faced while working as an aircraft electronics and avionics equipment installer and repairer?
    • What customer service skills do you possess that could be beneficial when working with aircraft owners and operators?

    Common Tools in Industry

    1. Multimeter. A device used to measure electrical current, voltage, and resistance. (eg: Fluke Multimeter)
    2. Crimping Tool. A tool used to join two pieces of metal together by deforming one or both of them in a way that creates a strong mechanical bond. (eg: Molex Ratcheting Crimper)
    3. Soldering Iron. A tool used to join two pieces of metal together by melting and applying a filler material. (eg: Weller Soldering Iron)
    4. Wire Strippers. A tool used to strip the insulation from the ends of electrical wires. (eg: Klein Wire Strippers)
    5. Heat Gun. A tool used to heat up surfaces quickly and evenly for soldering, shrinking, or other purposes. (eg: Milwaukee Heat Gun)
    6. Torque Wrench. A tool used to precisely tighten and loosen nuts and bolts. (eg: Craftsman Torque Wrench)
    7. Hand Drill/Drill Press. A tool used to make holes in materials with a variety of drill bits. (eg: Black & Decker Hand Drill/Drill Press)
    8. Screwdrivers. A tool used to drive screws into materials. (eg: Craftsman Screwdrivers)
    9. Pliers. A tool used to grip and hold objects for cutting, twisting, or bending. (eg: Channellock Pliers)
    10. Vacuum Pump. A device used to create a vacuum environment for testing or troubleshooting. (eg: Robinair Vacuum Pump)

    Professional Organizations to Know

    1. Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA)
    2. National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
    3. Aircraft Maintenance Technician Association (AMTA)
    4. Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
    5. National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
    6. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
    7. Aerospace Maintenance Council (AMC)
    8. International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI)
    9. Aircraft Electronics Technicians International (AETI)
    10. Aviation Suppliers Association (ASA)

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    Common Important Terms

    1. Aircraft Maintenance. The work of keeping an aircraft in a safe and airworthy condition.
    2. Avionics. Electronic systems used in aircraft, including autopilot, communication, navigation, and flight control systems.
    3. Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS). The wiring and associated parts and components used to connect electrical systems on an aircraft.
    4. Troubleshooting. The process of identifying a problem and coming up with a solution to fix it.
    5. Soldering. The process of joining two pieces of metal together using heat and solder to form an electrical connection.
    6. Test Equipment. Instruments used to measure the performance of an aircraft’s electrical system.
    7. Documentation. Records and instructions related to installing, operating, and maintaining avionics equipment.
    8. Airworthiness Directive. A regulation issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requiring action to correct a safety related deficiency in an aircraft or aircraft component.
    9. FAR/EASA Regulations. Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations governing the installation and maintenance of avionics systems.
    10. Electronic Logs. Records kept of all avionics equipment maintenance and repairs performed on an aircraft.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What type of work do Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installers and Repairers do?

    Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installers and Repairers install and repair electrical and electronic systems in aircraft. They test and troubleshoot components, identify and replace defective parts, and install new systems or components.

    What type of qualifications are needed to become an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer?

    An Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training and/or certification from a vocational school or community college.

    How long does it take to become an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer?

    It usually takes around 2-3 years to become an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer. This includes on-the-job training, as well as any necessary classes or certifications.

    What is the average salary for an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer?

    The median salary for an Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installer and Repairer is $59,890 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

    What type of environment do Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installers and Repairers work in?

    Aircraft Electronics and Avionics Equipment Installers and Repairers typically work in hangars, maintenance facilities, or on-site locations. They may also be required to work in various weather conditions.

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