Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors (NOC 2244)

Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors:

• test aircraft wiring and control circuitry through voltage metering and resistance measurement
• read and cross-reference extensive maintenance logs kept for the aircraft to detect patterns and predict and prevent cyclical circuit problems
• review weekly accident and maintenance bulletins containing new information from the global maintenance community
• conduct impartial and fair random checks on maintenance work to ensure quality and accuracy in the maintenance standards and practices of the aviation industry
• periodically upgrade and patch the programmed control routines of digitized electrical and electronic control systems

Special duties

Aircraft instrument mechanics and technicians

These workers repair and overhaul, install, calibrate and test aircraft instruments. Aircraft instrument mechanics and technicians who work in repair and overhaul shops service and test electrical, electronic and instrument components.

Aircraft electrical mechanics and technicians

Aircraft electrical mechanics and technicians repair and overhaul, modify, install and test aircraft electrical systems and equipment.

Avionics mechanics and technicians

These workers troubleshoot, repair and overhaul, test, modify, install and inspect aircraft electronic and electrical systems and components (i.e. including communications, navigation and auto flight equipment).

Avionics mechanics and technicians who work in maintenance hangars troubleshoot, repair, install and inspect aircraft systems and components.

Avionics inspectors

Avionics inspectors examine and test aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics systems and ensure that the installation, maintenance, repair and overhaul of these systems meet Transport Canada and company standards of performance and safety.

Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors typically work indoors (in hangars, repair shops or on assembly lines); inspectors and some mechanics may be required to work outdoors in hangers or on the flight line.

Workers perform their tasks in a team with other aircraft trades. Shift work may be a requirement for some occupations and most repair work conducted on aircrafts occurs at night.

Workers may perform their duties under pressure to maintain flight schedules, which may make the job more stressful. The work environment may include unfavourable conditions such as excessive noise, dirt or unpleasant odours and individuals who work outdoors may be exposed to unfavourable weather conditions.

Safety precautions must be undertaken at all times since workers may also be exposed to electrical hazards. Aircraft inspectors may have to stand, lie or kneel in awkward positions or work in high places, such as the top of jet wings and fuselages.

Education, training & qualifications

Completion of a Transport Canada approved college diploma program, experience in the trade, as well as certification is generally required. College diploma programs vary in length, from 29 weeks for Aircraft Mechanical Component Technicians to a 48-week diploma program for Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Category E (Avionics).

Employers and government regulating bodies may also require other specialized aircraft training, recertification or completion of additional examinations, such as Radiation Safety or Industrial Radiographers examinations.

Some occupations may require an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) licence through a recognized Transport Canada training school or institute.

Inspectors are required to obtain an Aircraft Maintenance and Inspection Certificate endorsed for the type of aircraft and power plants where they are employed

For detailed requirements for each occupational group, see the Aerospace Industry Association of British Columbia's Career Pathway Internet database at: www.aiabc.com/pathways.cfm

Skills

• Spatial Perception
• Innovative
• Numerical Ability
• Detail-Oriented

View skills definitions

Education programs in B.C.

The following program areas are related to this occupation:

For more information about programs offered specifically for this career, visit EducationPlannerBC.

Of the openings expected to become available over the next few years, most will result from retirements.

There will be strong demand for individuals trained in aviation component overhaul, which along with maintenance and repair of aircraft, is the primary activity in the B.C. aerospace industry. Older aircrafts consistently need to be serviced. As such, workers in this occupational group will be needed to provide these services even when new materials production is slow.

British Columbia aerospace companies produce a variety of aerospace components machined to the highest tolerances. Those who test, inspect and repair these components will continue to be strongly valued by this industry in the province.

Employment in the manufacturing and maintenance sectors of the province's aerospace industry has grown. There is a critical shortage of skilled workers in this occupational group to meet future demand.

Industry, labour, government and training institutions have developed an initiative called the B.C. Aerospace Workforce Strategy to help turn around the aerospace skills shortage in the province and to ensure steps are taken to respond to the demands of this industry.