Coast Guard Rating · Aviation
AET Avionics Electrical Technician
Overview
An Avionics Electrical Technician inspects, services, maintains, troubleshoots, and repairs aircraft systems for communications, navigation, collision avoidance, target acquisition, and automatic flight control. This technician also maintains aircraft batteries and electrical power systems, performs aircraft ground handling and inspections, completes aviation administrative duties, and fills designated aircrew positions.
Core Skills
- avionics systems maintenance and repair
- aircraft communications and navigation systems support
- radar and sensor systems troubleshooting
- flight control and autopilot systems maintenance
- electrical power generation and distribution troubleshooting
- battery maintenance and power systems diagnostics
- wiring, connectors, and harness repair
- use of electronic test equipment
- technical manuals and schematics interpretation
- maintenance documentation and configuration control
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- C++
- Linux
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
Civilian Career Paths
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Telecommunications
Training & Development
Getting Started
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
- NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Certification
Career Growth
- NCATT Radio Communication Systems (RCS) Endorsement
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
What the Work Involves
- Test and troubleshoot instruments, components, and assemblies, using circuit testers, oscilloscopes, or voltmeters.
- Keep records of maintenance and repair work.
- Adjust, repair, or replace malfunctioning components or assemblies, using hand tools or soldering irons.
- Install electrical and electronic components, assemblies, and systems in aircraft, using hand tools, power tools, or soldering irons.
- Set up and operate ground support and test equipment to perform functional flight tests of electrical and electronic systems.
Related Occupations
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
- Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
- Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Similar Specialties
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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