What Is an Aircraft Electrician?
Aircraft are operated by complex electrical systems. Individual components, such as lighting, landing gear, pilot instrumentation and ignitions systems are each run by an electrical system. Aircraft Electricians are specially trained to install and maintain these systems. Schools offering Electrician degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Aircraft Electrician Responsibilities
The Aircraft Electrician is responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical systems within an aircraft. They troubleshoot issues within the systems. Aircraft Electricians also perform safety checks and ensure systems are kept in order. These responsibilities may require the use of wind tunnels, multimeters, oscilloscopes, electrical hand tools or simulators. Duties may include:
- Using special equipment to test systems
- Diagnosing malfunctions
- Repairing or replacing defective components
- Cleaning and preserving electrical components
- Reading and following electrical diagrams
- Soldering wires
- Keeping maintenance record
Aircraft Electrician Training
Specialized training is necessary to learn the intricate systems used in aircraft. Training programs, such as the military's, combine on-the-job and classroom instruction. Programs cover theory of electricity, blueprint reading, soldering techniques, troubleshooting, system maintenance and knowledge of instruments, including altimeters, tachometers and temperature gauges. Students learn about electronic components, such as diodes, resistors, transistors, capacitors and transformers. Instruction also covers aerodynamics and Brunneli's principle of lift to understand how electrical systems make aircraft functional. Completion of this training qualifies for FAA licensure to work on aircraft power plants. Additional training is required to work on airframes.
Aircraft Electrician Jobs
Many Aircraft Electrician jobs are with the Federal Government working in the armed services. Other employers include aircraft manufacturers, commercial airlines, companies that provide aircraft maintenance or any other organization operating a fleet of aircraft. As of March 2009, Aircraft Electricians earned between $17.74 and $23.61 per hour, according to Payscale, www.payscale.com.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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