An Aerospace Support Technician (often included in the Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians category) assists engineers and scientists in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining aerospace equipment, systems, and components, including aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They play a critical role in ensuring the precision and operational reliability of complex aerospace technology.
Typical Education
An Associate's degree in aerospace, electronics, or a related engineering technology field is the typical entry-level education for this role.
Salary Range in the United States
The median annual wage for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians was $79,830 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $53,730, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $120,440.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians.
Day in the Life
Discover the unique role of an aerospace technician working on specialized space center payloads.
How to Become an Aerospace Support Technician
- Complete an Associate's Degree: Earn a two-year degree in Aerospace Engineering Technology, Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, or a similar technical discipline.
- Develop Specialized Knowledge: Focus on coursework or training in areas like aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and advanced electrical troubleshooting.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Seek out internships or co-op programs with aerospace manufacturers, defense contractors, or government agencies like NASA or the Department of Defense.
- Acquire Relevant Certifications: While not always mandatory, specialized certifications in areas like soldering, non-destructive testing (NDT), or specific avionics systems can enhance employability.
- Apply for Entry-Level Technician Roles: Start by seeking positions that involve calibration, assembly, or testing of sub-systems under the guidance of senior staff and engineers.
Essential Skills
- Precision and Attention to Detail: The ability to execute tasks with extreme accuracy, following complex blueprints, schematics, and detailed work instructions, as errors can have catastrophic consequences.
- Technical Troubleshooting: Skill in systematically diagnosing and resolving malfunctions in complex mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems using advanced testing equipment.
- Blueprint and Schematic Reading: Proficiency in interpreting detailed engineering drawings and wiring diagrams for assembly, repair, and modification of components.
- Computer-Aided Testing (CAT) Software: Familiarity with operating and interpreting data from computer-controlled test equipment and diagnostic systems.
- Quality Assurance and Control: Understanding and implementing quality standards, performing rigorous inspections, and documenting results meticulously to ensure compliance with aerospace safety regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Test and Validate Systems: Set up and conduct experimental, operational, and stress tests on aircraft, missiles, or spacecraft sub-systems, collecting and recording performance data.
- Assemble and Install Components: Fabricate, assemble, and install various mechanical, electrical, and electronic components according to detailed specifications and procedures.
- Perform Calibration and Maintenance: Calibrate instruments and equipment, and perform preventive and corrective maintenance on ground support equipment and technical systems.
- Support Design and Development: Collaborate with engineers by providing technical support, suggesting modifications, and assisting in the prototyping of new components or systems.
- Document Procedures and Results: Write comprehensive reports, log all test results, maintenance actions, and component tracking information to maintain stringent quality and regulatory records.
Five Common Interview Questions
- "Can you describe your experience reading complex wiring diagrams or engineering schematics? Give an example of a successful repair you made using them." This assesses your technical literacy and practical application of essential documentation skills.
- "What steps do you take to ensure quality and precision when working on a critical system, knowing that safety in aerospace is paramount?" This gauges your understanding of quality control procedures and your commitment to the extreme standards required in the aerospace industry.
- "Tell me about a time you identified an error in an engineer’s design or procedure. How did you communicate this to the engineer?" This tests your professional assertiveness, attention to detail, and ability to communicate technical feedback effectively and collaboratively.
- "Which diagnostic tools or test equipment are you most proficient with, and describe how you used them to troubleshoot a fault in a system." This probes your hands-on technical skills and familiarity with industry-standard diagnostic hardware and software.
- "Aerospace technology is constantly evolving. How do you keep your technical knowledge and skills current?" This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and proactive approach to staying current with new materials, systems, and regulations.
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