Avionics Technicians
Avionics technicians install, inspect, test, adjust, and repair electronic systems in aircraft and spacecraft, including radar, radio, navigation, and missile control equipment. They work in aircraft maintenance facilities, hangars, manufacturing plants, and repair shops, performing both routine maintenance and complex troubleshooting on sophisticated aviation electronics.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against avionics technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Avionics technicians spend time in hangars and maintenance bays working on aircraft systems. Tasks include testing equipment with specialized tools, reading technical manuals and wiring diagrams, making adjustments to equipment, and documenting maintenance work. Work may involve climbing into tight aircraft spaces, working at various heights, and following strict maintenance protocols. Some days focus on routine inspections, while others involve diagnosing and fixing system failures.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you enjoy solving technical problems in a structured environment and prefer hands-on tasks with clear procedures. You're detail-oriented, comfortable following established guidelines, and interested in how electronic systems function in practical applications.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $85,490 | $117,470 | $117,470 | 70 |
| New Jersey | $43,940 | $100,250 | $108,350 | 260 |
| Maryland | $90,770 | $97,490 | $101,850 | 160 |
| Alabama | $77,910 | $95,920 | $96,310 | 910 |
| Alaska | $83,900 | $94,810 | $110,360 | 50 |
| New Mexico | $75,980 | $94,020 | $95,320 | — |
| California | $77,660 | $92,480 | $106,950 | 1,220 |
| Washington | $80,520 | $91,380 | $111,690 | 3,400 |
| Massachusetts | $82,930 | $89,340 | $89,640 | 40 |
| New Hampshire | $66,660 | $86,830 | $86,830 | 30 |
| Hawaii | $76,530 | $86,260 | $97,340 | 90 |
| Virginia | $74,250 | $85,660 | $97,830 | 250 |
All 42 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) — ETA International
- Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) — ASTM International
- Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician (CAET) — Aircraft Electronics Association
- SpaceTEC Certified Aerospace Technician — SpaceTEC
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against avionics technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-2091.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.