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What does an Aircraft Electrician do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An aircraft electrician is responsible for the electrical systems on an aircraft. They install, maintain, and repair the wiring and electrical components on the plane.

Aircraft Electrician job duties include:

  • Inspects, tests, repairs, and maintains aircraft electrical systems and components, including generators, transformers, voltage regulators, batteries, wiring, and other parts of the electrical system.
  • Reads and interprets aircraft maintenance manuals and specifications to determine feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
  • Confers with engineers and other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, and provide technical information.
  • Inspects installed aircraft systems and components to verify proper functioning and identify defects.
  • Removes, installs, repairs, replaces, and tests aircraft electrical system components, using hand tools and power tools.
  • Connects cables and wires between components in electrical system following blueprints or other instructions.
  • Adjusts, repairs, or replaces electrical wiring systems and aircraft accessories.
  • Solders wires to connect components in electrical system following blueprints or other instructions.
  • Tests continuity of circuits using ohmmeter to ensure compatibility and safety of system.

Aircraft Electrician Job Requirements

An aircraft electrician is responsible for the maintenance and repair of an aircraft's electrical systems. They must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete an FAA-approved training program. Aircraft electricians must also have a valid driver's license and be able to pass a background check.

Aircraft Electrician Skills

  • Wiring
  • Connectors
  • Terminals
  • Splices
  • Tools
  • Aircraft Systems
  • Electrical Schematics
  • Test Equipment
  • Installation
  • Troubleshooting
  • Maintenance

Related: Top Aircraft Electrician Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Aircraft Electrician

An aircraft electrician is a highly skilled professional who installs, maintains, and repairs the electrical systems on aircraft. Aircraft electricians work on a variety of aircraft, from small private planes to large commercial jets. They must have a thorough understanding of electrical theory and be able to apply it to real-world problems.

Aircraft electricians typically enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent. Many complete an apprenticeship or formal training program at an aviation school. Some electricians may also become certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The first step to becoming an aircraft electrician is to complete a high school education or equivalent. Next, interested individuals should consider completing an apprenticeship or formal training program at an aviation school. Although not required, certification by the FAA may be beneficial for career advancement.

Related: Aircraft Electrician Resume Example

Related: Aircraft Electrician Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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