Coast Guard Rating · Aviation

AST Aviation Survival Technician

Overview

An Aviation Survival Technician inspects, maintains, and repairs parachutes, survival equipment, protective clothing, small arms, pyrotechnics, and oxygen and fire extinguisher systems. The technician trains aviation personnel, practices rescue swimmer techniques, manages rescue swimmer training, supports aircraft handling and inspections, and maintains records.

Core Skills

  • maintenance and repair of technical equipment
  • inspection and quality assurance
  • technical troubleshooting
  • safety management
  • technical instruction and training
  • documentation and recordkeeping
  • risk assessment
  • teamwork and coordination
  • decision making under pressure
  • basic medical and first responder skills

Civilian Software & Tools

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Word
  • Adobe Acrobat
  • SAP software
  • Computerized maintenance management system software CMMS
  • Diving logbook software

Civilian Career Paths

  • Emergency Management
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Training and Education
  • Aircraft Maintenance

Training & Development

Getting Started

  • ASTM NCATT Foreign Object Elimination (FOE)
  • Associate Safety Professional (ASP) · Funded
  • Certified Aerospace Technician Core
  • Certified CrossFit Trainer (CCFT)
  • Certified Safety Professional (CSP) · Funded

Career Growth

  • GMDSS Radio Operator License (DO)
  • General Communications Technician: Level 1 (GCT1) · Funded
  • FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) · Funded
  • Master Parachute Rigger
  • National Entry Level Ratings

What the Work Involves

  • Rescue distressed persons, using rescue techniques and equipment.
  • Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
  • Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
  • Verify that first aid kits and other emergency equipment, including fire extinguishers and oxygen bottles, are in working order.
  • Train new employees in areas such as safety procedures or equipment operation.

Related Occupations

  • First-Line Supervisors of Passenger Attendants
  • Helpers--Extraction Workers
  • Avionics Technicians
  • Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a high school diploma and some on-the-job training.

Defense contractor jobs for AST

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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