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Aerospace Engineering Technician

Do you want to become a Aerospace Engineering Technician? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Aerospace engineering technicians use their mechanical, electrical or electronics skills to help build, maintain and repair aeroplanes and helicopters, missiles, satellites and space vehicles. They work as part of a team and might specialise in airframes, hydraulics, engines, fuel, pneumatics or avionics.

• In design work, they use computer-aided design (CAD) systems to turn ideas into plans for new aircraft, or to improve existing aircraft.
• In research and development, they solve complex engineering problems caused by weight, altitude, temperature and engine performance.
• In repair and maintenance, they carry out the regular servicing and repair of aircraft.

Standard working hours are usually 37 to 40 hours a week, but overtime or weekend work is sometimes required. Technicians involved in research and design usually work in clean, quiet laboratories and research centres, but all engineers also visit factory production areas, which may be noisy. Technicians may have to spend short periods away from home.

Salaries range from around £10,000 to £14,000 a year to more than £30,000.

Aerospace engineering technicians need to:

• have practical skills with tools and instruments
• be good at maths and computing, with a logical approach to problem solving
• understand engineering drawings and principles
• have an interest in aircraft and flight technology.

There are career opportunities with a range of private companies - from small employers to large multinational aerospace manufacturers and airline operators. Other employers include the Armed Forces, government departments and agencies, and regulatory authorities like the Civil Aviation Authority. Many airlines have their own maintenance division, and training schemes and sponsorship schemes are available.

An important entry route is with an employer as a technician apprentice. Most apprentices start aged 16 to 18, but entry is possible up to 25. Entry is generally with four GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), including maths and science or technology, or equivalent qualifications. Adults with experience in engineering are usually welcomed.

With experience, technicians should aim to get the qualification EngTech. To achieve this they must register formally with the Engineering Council UK.

Promotion prospects are good and could be to engineering posts or, with experience and higher qualifications, to management roles. It is usually necessary to gain incorporated or chartered engineer status to enter higher level jobs. There are also opportunities overseas.

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