How to Be Military Aviation Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 8, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Aviation Technician is an integral part of the Military Aviation industry. They are responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft, which is critical for safe and efficient operations. Their duties include inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing components and systems on the aircraft, as well as performing preventive maintenance.

The Aviation Technician's role is to ensure that all aircraft are kept in peak operating condition. If a malfunction occurs, the technician's attention to detail and troubleshooting ability can help identify and fix the problem quickly. This helps to minimize downtime and maximize mission readiness.

In addition, Aviation Technicians also play an important role in ensuring safety compliance and maintaining mission-critical communication systems. The Aviation Technician's skill and knowledge plays a vital role in the success of military aviation operations.

Steps How to Become

Meet the minimum qualifications for enlistment in the military. Generally, applicants must be at least 17 years old and a U. S. citizen or legal resident, and they must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This is a multi-subject test given by the military to determine which jobs you qualify for within the military. The scores of the ASVAB will determine if you are eligible to become a Military Aviation Technician.
Meet any additional requirements for the job. Military Aviation Technicians must meet certain physical requirements to be able to work with aircraft and other related equipment. They may also need clearance to access certain sensitive information about aircraft or technology.
Enlist in the military and attend basic training. You will learn discipline, physical fitness, and basic military knowledge during basic training.
Attend technical school for Aviation Maintenance Technician training. Depending on the branch of the military, you may attend school for up to a year to learn the skills necessary to become a Military Aviation Technician. During this time, you will learn about aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols.
Work as an Aviation Maintenance Technician for the duration of your enlistment. After completing your technical school, you will work as an Aviation Maintenance Technician throughout your enlistment in the military. You will be responsible for performing maintenance and repairs on aircraft as well as supervising other technicians.
Receive additional training and certifications as needed. As Military Aviation Technicians progress in their careers, they may be required to attend additional training or earn certifications in order to maintain their positions.

As an aviation technician, staying ahead and capable requires dedication and hard work. It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news and technology, as well as to hone one's technical skills through continual training and education. Additionally, networking with other aviation professionals can be a great way to gain insight into the latest trends and developments. Ultimately, these efforts will ensure that an aviation technician has the knowledge and understanding required to succeed in the field.

You may want to check Military Electronics Engineer, Military Public Affairs Officer, and Military Technical Expert for alternative.

Job Description

Aircraft Maintenance Technician: Responsible for performing maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft systems and components.
Avionics Technician: Diagnoses, tests, adjusts, and repairs aircraft radio, navigation, and other avionics systems.
Flight Line Mechanic: Performs pre- and post-flight inspections on aircraft systems and components.
Sheet Metal Technician: Fabricates, installs, and repairs aircraft sheet metal parts and components.
Paint Technician: Applies coatings to aircraft surfaces for corrosion protection and aesthetic purposes.
Propulsion Technician: Maintains, repairs, and inspects aircraft engines, fuel systems, and related components.
Hydraulic Technician: Services and repairs aircraft hydraulic systems, lines, and components.
Electrical Technician: Troubleshoots and repairs aircraft electrical systems and components.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aviation maintenance operations and procedures.
Knowledge of aircraft systems, components and structure.
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose problems.
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints and schematics.
Ability to use a variety of hand, power and specialty tools.
Ability to use precision measuring equipment such as micrometers and calipers.
Ability to follow safety regulations for hazardous materials, tools and equipment.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Ability to organize tasks to meet tight deadlines.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

A good Aviation Technician must possess a wide array of technical skills. On the most basic level, they must have a solid understanding of aircraft systems and processes in order to properly diagnose and repair problems. They must also understand the principles of aircraft propulsion and aerodynamics in order to ensure that the aircraft is operating safely and efficiently.

Aviation Technicians must be able to interpret and analyze aircraft maintenance logs and technical manuals. Good knowledge of mathematics, physics, and electrical systems is also essential. As a result of having these skills, Aviation Technicians are able to troubleshoot and fix issues quickly and safely, reducing the risk of any accidents or malfunctions.

Furthermore, they are able to perform preventative maintenance tasks to keep the aircraft running in top condition, extending its lifespan and ensuring the safety of its passengers.

Military Reconnaissance Analyst, Military Communications Technician, and Military Special Operations Officer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What specific experience do you have working in a military aviation technician role?
How have you handled difficult situations that have arisen in the course of your work?
What methods do you use to stay up to date on changes in military aviation technology?
Describe a project or task you have completed that demonstrated your technical skills in this field.
How would you handle a situation where a customer requested a service you were not ready to provide?
What is your experience with troubleshooting electronic systems and components?
What safety protocols have you implemented in your current/previous role?
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple demands?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision in the course of your work.
How do you ensure accuracy when completing complex tasks?

Common Tools in Industry

Multi-Meter. A device used to measure electrical current, voltage, and resistance. (eg: Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter)
Torque Wrench. A tool used to apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener. (eg: Snap-on Industrial Torque Wrench)
Impact Wrench. A tool used to quickly fasten or loosen nuts and bolts. (eg: Ingersoll-Rand Impact Wrench)
Soldering Iron. A heated tool used to join metal pieces together with a solder material. (eg: Weller Digital Soldering Iron)
Heating Gun. A device used to apply heat to shrink plastic and other materials. (eg: Milwaukee M12 Cordless Heating Gun)
Crimp Tool. A tool used to connect wires with a terminal or connector. (eg: IDEAL Industries Crimp Tool)
Crimper Pliers. A plier-like tool used to crimp connectors or terminals onto wires. (eg: Knipex Ratcheting Crimper Pliers)
Hand Drill. A handheld device used to make holes in various materials. (eg: Black & Decker Corded Hand Drill)
Inspection Mirror. A mirror used to inspect hard-to-reach places. (eg: Craftsman Telescoping Inspection Mirror)
Vacuum Pump. A device used to draw out air or other gases from a sealed container. (eg: Robinair Vacuum Pump)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Society of Aviation Maintenance Professionals (SAMPE)
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
National Aviation Maintenance Technician Association (NAMTA)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Association (ICAPA)
National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA)
Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA)
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW)

We also have Military Simulation Technician, Military Engineer, and Military Service Member jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Avionics Technician. A technician that specializes in the installation, maintenance, and repair of aircraft electronic systems.
Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Technician. A technician that is qualified to maintain, inspect, repair, and overhaul aircraft airframes and powerplants.
Loadmaster. A technician responsible for the loading and unloading of aircraft cargo, passengers, and baggage.
Flight Engineer. A technician responsible for the operation and maintenance of the aircrafts engine systems.
Weapons Systems Technician. A technician responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of an aircrafts weapons systems.
Aircraft Ground Support Technician. A technician responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft on the ground.
Flight Line Technician. A technician responsible for the inspection and maintenance of aircraft before and after flight.
Aerospace Engineer. An engineer that specializes in the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft.
Avionics Engineer. An engineer that specializes in the design and development of aircraft electronic systems.
Aeronautical Engineer. An engineer that specializes in the design and development of aircraft structures, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become a Military Aviation Technician?

To become a Military Aviation Technician, applicants must have at least a high school diploma or GED and must pass a security clearance and background check. Additionally, applicants must be qualified in aircraft mechanics and possess the necessary technical skills.

How many years of training is required to become a Military Aviation Technician?

The amount of training required to become a Military Aviation Technician varies depending on the specific job. Generally speaking, military technicians will need to complete a minimum of two to four years of technical schooling or a four-year apprenticeship program to gain the necessary knowledge and skills.

What is the job outlook for Military Aviation Technicians?

The job outlook for Military Aviation Technicians is expected to be positive, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a growth rate of 4% over the next 10 years.

What are some of the duties of a Military Aviation Technician?

The primary duties of a Military Aviation Technician include inspecting, maintaining, and repairing aircraft components, engines, and other associated systems; performing scheduled maintenance; troubleshooting and diagnosing aircraft malfunctions; and performing inspections and testing on aircraft systems.

What is the salary range for a Military Aviation Technician?

The salary range for a Military Aviation Technician can vary depending on experience and location, but the median annual salary for these positions is typically around $48,000.