How to Be Flight Deck Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 28, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The Flight Deck Technician is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the aircraft, which has a significant impact on the safety of the flight. Proper maintenance and repair of the aircraft is essential to ensuring that the aircraft is safe and reliable. The Flight Deck Technician must be knowledgeable in all aspects of the aircraft, including its engines, avionics, hydraulics, flight controls, and navigation systems.

By performing regular maintenance and repair, the Flight Deck Technician can help prevent mechanical issues, reduce fuel consumption, and maintain the aircraft in an optimal condition. they must monitor aircraft performance to identify any potential problems before they become serious. This helps ensure that the aircraft is always safe and ready to fly.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. In order to become a Flight Deck Technician, you will need at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Obtain a Certification. You will need to obtain a certification in aviation maintenance from a qualified institution. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offers several options for certification, such as Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification and Avionics certification.
Gain Work Experience. Once you have completed your certification, you will need to gain work experience in the field. Many employers prefer candidates who have previous experience working on aircraft.
Obtain Additional Certifications. You may also need to obtain additional certifications, such as aircraft mechanic certifications, in order to become a Flight Deck Technician.
Apply for Flight Deck Technician Positions. Once you have completed the necessary certifications and gained work experience, you can apply for Flight Deck Technician positions. You can search for job openings on job boards and websites, or you can contact aviation companies directly.

Staying ahead and efficient when working as a Flight Deck Technician requires a combination of proactive planning and dedication to the job. By analyzing upcoming flight schedules and ensuring all necessary supplies are on hand ahead of time, technicians can avoid delays and help ensure a smooth flight. staying up-to-date on maintenance requirements and safety protocols can help prevent any potential issues from arising.

Finally, having a positive attitude and good communication skills with other crew members is essential for creating a productive work environment and keeping operations running smoothly. With these proactive steps in place, Flight Deck Technicians can stay ahead and efficient in their work.

You may want to check Flight Operations Coordinator, Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator (Drone Pilot), and Air Traffic Control Flight Data Communications Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Inspect and maintain aircraft systems, including hydraulics, landing gear, brakes, and engines
Perform pre-flight, post-flight, and daily inspections of aircraft components
Troubleshoot aircraft malfunctions and perform repairs
Monitor and adjust aircraft systems during flight
Install, inspect, and maintain aircraft communication, navigation, and surveillance equipment
Test aircraft systems and components to ensure proper functioning
Operate aircraft maintenance and test equipment
Maintain aircraft records and logs
Assist in the loading and unloading of cargo and passengers
Assist in the preparation of aircraft for flight

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aviation safety protocols and procedures.
Ability to troubleshoot and maintain aircraft systems.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals.
Excellent coordination and dexterity skills.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Knowledge of aviation regulations and policies.
Knowledge of aircraft loading, weight and balance principles.
Ability to lift heavy objects, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.
Proficiency in the use of hand and power tools.
Knowledge of aircraft electrical systems, instrumentation, and navigation systems.
Knowledge of aircraft fueling systems and fuel management procedures.
Knowledge of aircraft maintenance principles and techniques.
Knowledge of aircraft maintenance records and log book procedures.
Knowledge of aircraft performance characteristics and limitations.
Ability to interpret weather reports and forecast flight conditions.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make quick decisions.

The most important skill for a Flight Deck Technician is having the ability to think critically and act quickly in emergency situations. This critical thinking allows the technician to assess the situation, recognize potential hazards, and take the necessary steps to ensure safety. This skill is essential in flight operations, as the technician is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the aircraft systems.

In addition, they must be able to accurately identify and diagnose any problems that arise within the aircraft, as well as troubleshooting any issues that may arise. Good communication skills are also essential, as the technician must be able to communicate effectively with other crew members, maintenance personnel, and air traffic control. Lastly, the technician must have a strong understanding of aircraft systems and procedures, as well as the ability to follow safety protocols and procedures correctly.

With these skills, a Flight Deck Technician can ensure that their aircraft remains safe and secure during all phases of flight.

Flight Attendant Trainer Instructor, Flight Simulator Engineer, and Flight Attendant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in repairing, installing and calibrating aircraft systems?
How familiar are you with the protocols related to flight deck maintenance?
What challenges have you faced in the past while performing flight deck maintenance?
How do you stay up to date on industry standards and technology related to flight deck systems?
How do you handle conflicting priorities when performing maintenance tasks?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a technical problem on a flight deck system.
What safety protocols do you follow when working on flight deck systems?
How do you work with other technicians to ensure the completion of complex maintenance tasks?
What strategies do you use to stay organized and ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently?
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with a tight deadline?

Common Tools in Industry

Wrenches. Used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts (eg: adjustable wrench).
Pliers. Used to grip, twist and pull objects (eg: needle-nose pliers).
Screwdrivers. Used to drive screws into material (eg: Phillips screwdriver).
Hammer. Used to drive nails into materials (eg: claw hammer).
Socket Wrenches. Used to drive and loosen nuts and bolts (eg: ratchet socket wrench).
Hex Keys. Used to drive and loosen hexagonal-shaped screws (eg: Allen wrench).
Torque Wrenches. Used to accurately measure torque when tightening nuts and bolts (eg: digital torque wrench).
Nut Drivers. Used to drive hexagonal-shaped nuts and bolts (eg: magnetic nut driver).
Drills. Used to create holes in materials (eg: cordless drill).
Sawzalls. Used to cut materials (eg: reciprocating saw).

Professional Organizations to Know

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
Aviation International News (AIN)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
Helicopter Association International (HAI)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Aerospace Industries Association (AIA)
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)

We also have Avionics Flight Test Engineer, Flight Engineer, and Flight Service Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Flight Deck. The enclosed area of an aircraft in which the pilot and other crew members control and operate the aircraft.
Avionics. A term used to describe the electronic systems on an aircraft, including computers and communications, navigation, and autopilot systems.
Radar. A system that uses radio waves to detect objects and determine their range, altitude, direction, or speed.
Aircraft Maintenance. The process of inspecting, repairing, and testing components of an aircraft in order to ensure its airworthiness.
Flight Data Recorder. A device that records information about an aircraft's performance, such as altitude, heading, and airspeed, during a flight.
Weather Radar. A radar system that is used to detect precipitation, such as rain or snow, in the atmosphere.
Air Traffic Control. A system that is used to direct the movement of aircraft in order to ensure the safe separation of aircraft from one another.
Emergency Procedures. A set of actions that should be taken when an emergency situation arises on board an aircraft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Flight Deck Technician?

The primary responsibility of a Flight Deck Technician is to ensure the safe and efficient operation of an aircraft by performing maintenance and repairs on its components.

What qualifications are required for a Flight Deck Technician?

Qualifications for a Flight Deck Technician typically include an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification and a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) rating.

What skills are necessary for a Flight Deck Technician?

Skills necessary for a Flight Deck Technician include knowledge of aviation maintenance, troubleshooting and repair, attention to detail, and critical thinking.

How much does a Flight Deck Technician earn?

The median annual salary for a Flight Deck Technician is approximately $62,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How long does it take to become a certified Flight Deck Technician?

It can take anywhere from 18 months to 4 years to become a certified Flight Deck Technician, depending on the degree program and certification requirements.