Aircraft Technician

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Work Tasks

• Make sure that airplanes are safe to fly
• Inspect and test all parts of planes to make sure they are in good shape
• Make repairs when needed
• Use X-ray equipment to check for small cracks
• Work in a hangar or repair shop for airports or the government
• Work with hand and power tools, testing tools, lifts, and x-ray equipment

Salary, Size & Growth

• $56,500 average per year ($27.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (117,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.6% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification
• Skills/Courses: Courses in math, physics, chemistry, electronics, computer science, mechanical drawing, and English
• Certification/Licensing: FAA certification as an airframe technician, powerplant technician, or avionics repair specialist is required.