How to Be Spacecraft Avionics Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 21, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Spacecraft Avionics Technician is a specialized job that requires individuals to work on the spacecrafts avionics systems. This includes installing, testing, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining the spacecrafts avionics systems which are essential for its operation. These technicians are required to have a good understanding of the principles of electronics, software engineering, and computer programming as well as the ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.

In order to be successful in this role, a technician must have a strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering. The successful technician will also have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively on complex problems. The knowledge and technical skills gained from this type of work will be beneficial in furthering their career in the aerospace field.

As a result, this job can provide a great opportunity for those interested in careers in the aerospace field as it provides a challenging and rewarding career path.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Depending on the employer, a college degree may be required for some positions.
Take courses related to avionics and electronics, such as digital circuits, microprocessors, and communication systems. These courses can be taken at a technical or vocational school, community college, or university.
Obtain certification in avionics technology from the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT), which is the leading certifying body for avionics technicians.
Complete a formal apprenticeship program or on-the-job training program, depending on the employer's requirements. These programs typically last from one to two years and provide hands-on experience in the installation and maintenance of aircraft avionics systems.
Demonstrate proficiency in the principles of electronic troubleshooting, fault isolation, and repair of aircraft avionics systems.
Be proficient in reading and interpreting wiring diagrams, technical manuals, and engineering drawings.
Have a thorough understanding of the theory, operation, and maintenance of aircraft avionics systems.
Possess good communication skills, as well as excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
Maintain a valid driver's license, as some travel may be required.

Staying ahead and qualified as a spacecraft avionics technician requires dedication and commitment to continued learning and training. It is important to stay abreast of the latest developments in technology, systems, and procedures. Keeping up with industry standards and regulations is essential to ensure that a technician is qualified to do the job.

staying current with the maintenance and repair of spacecraft avionic systems helps to prevent malfunctions and breakdowns, thus avoiding costly repairs and loss of time. Finally, it is important to participate in regular training sessions and workshops that are designed to keep technicians informed of the newest advancements in the field. By staying ahead of the curve and committed to staying up-to-date on industry standards and regulations, a spacecraft avionics technician can ensure they remain qualified and able to provide the highest quality of work.

You may want to check Launch Vehicle Technician, Rocket Scientist, and Light Pollution Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Inspect, maintain and repair spacecraft avionics systems
Troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions in avionics systems
Install, configure and test avionics systems and components
Analyze avionics system performance, and make necessary adjustments
Perform preventative maintenance on avionics systems
Read and interpret diagrams, specifications and technical manuals
Use specialized diagnostic and testing equipment to evaluate system performance
Monitor the operation of avionics systems during flight tests
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures
Provide technical support to customers and other technicians

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expert knowledge of spacecraft avionics systems and processes
Ability to troubleshoot and repair complex electrical and electronic components and systems
Knowledge of safety regulations, quality assurance procedures, and industry standards for spacecraft avionics
Proficiency in testing, calibrating, and verifying the accuracy of electrical and electronic components
Experience with circuit boards, wiring diagrams, and control systems
Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals
Knowledge of software and programming languages used in spacecraft avionics
Familiarity with tools and equipment used in avionics maintenance and repair
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and in a team environment

Having a strong technical knowledge of spacecraft avionics is a critical skill for any spacecraft avionics technician. Having a thorough understanding of the various components and systems that are used to control and monitor a spacecraft's electrical systems is essential for safe and successful operation. This knowledge is especially important when troubleshooting any problems that may arise since it allows technicians to identify the root cause of the issue and make the necessary repairs or adjustments.

Furthermore, having a strong background in mathematics, physics and engineering will enable technicians to accurately calculate and interpret the various parameters associated with spacecraft avionics. Finally, having excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a team environment is essential for success in this position as it allows technicians to quickly and effectively resolve any issues that arise.

Astronomy Lecturer, Astronomy Software Developer, and Planetarium Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with avionics systems?
Are you familiar with the technical specifications for a variety of spacecrafts?
Describe a time when you troubleshot an avionics system and how you solved the problem.
How do you stay up to date on new avionics technologies?
What safety protocols do you follow when working with avionics systems?
How do you approach troubleshooting complex problems with avionics systems?
Do you have experience in soldering and other electrical wiring tasks?
What methods do you use to ensure quality checks while working with avionics systems?
What experience do you have in calibration and testing of avionics systems?
What challenges have you encountered while working with avionics systems?

Common Tools in Industry

Oscilloscope. An electronic testing device used to measure voltage levels in a circuit. (eg: Tektronix Oscilloscope)
Multi-meter. A hand-held device used to measure electrical resistance, current, and voltage. (eg: Fluke Digital Multimeter)
Soldering Iron. A device used to join two pieces of metal together through the application of heat and solder. (eg: Hakko Soldering Iron)
Crimping Tool. A tool used to secure electrical connections by crimping wires or terminals together. (eg: Klein Ratcheting Crimper)
Heat Gun. A device used to generate hot air for drying, shrinking, and softening materials. (eg: Wagner Heat Gun)
Wire Strippers. A hand-held tool used to strip the insulation off of wires. (eg: Klein Wire Stripper)
Power Supply. An electronic device used to provide power to circuits. (eg: Agilent Power Supply)
Logic Analyzer. A device used to measure digital signals in a circuit. (eg: Tektronix Logic Analyzer)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aerospace Industries Association
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
International Council on Systems Engineering
Air Traffic Control Association
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Society of Automotive Engineers
Aircraft Electronics Association
International Association of Certified Electronics Technicians
Society of Flight Test Engineers
International Astronautical Federation

We also have Space Station Commander, Observatory Manager, and Astronomy Researcher jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Avionics. The electronic systems used in aircraft and spacecraft, including computers, navigation systems, communications, and instrumentation.
Telemetry. The transmission of data from a spacecraft or other remotely operated vehicle to a ground station.
Telecommand. The transmission of commands from a ground station to a spacecraft or other remotely operated vehicle.
Teleoperation. The control of a spacecraft or other remotely operated vehicle from a ground station.
Onboard Computer. A computer system onboard a spacecraft to monitor and control its functions.
Attitude Control System. A system used to control the orientation of a spacecraft in relation to the stars.
Autonomous System. A system that can operate independently, without external input or command.
Autopilot. A system that can autonomously fly a spacecraft without direct input from the operator.
Guidance and Navigation System. A system used to determine the position, velocity, and acceleration of a spacecraft and to guide it to its destination.
Flight Software. Computer programs used to control the operations of a spacecraft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Spacecraft Avionics Technician?

A Spacecraft Avionics Technician is a professional responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the electronic systems used to control a spacecraft's navigation and communication.

What type of skills are required for this role?

Spacecraft Avionics Technicians must have strong technical abilities, including electrical engineering and computer programming skills, and be able to understand complex systems. They must also have exceptional problem-solving skills and be highly organized.

What qualifications must be met to become a Spacecraft Avionics Technician?

To become a Spacecraft Avionics Technician, individuals must hold a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field, such as aerospace engineering or avionics. Additionally, they must have a minimum of two years' experience working in the field of avionics.

What are the duties of a Spacecraft Avionics Technician?

The main duties of a Spacecraft Avionics Technician include inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing electronics systems for spacecraft; designing, installing, and testing avionics systems; and monitoring the performance of systems during operations.

What type of environment does a Spacecraft Avionics Technician work in?

Spacecraft Avionics Technicians typically work in laboratories or other cleanroom environments, and may also be responsible for working on-site with spacecraft or other vehicles. They may also be required to travel for extended periods of time in order to complete assignments.