Overview

The aircraft electrician is primarily responsible for supervising, inspecting and performing maintenance on aircraft electrical systems. They ensure that the electrical systems on airplanes and helicopters are properly maintained and repaired.

Job Duties

• Diagnose malfunctions in electrical and electronic components
  
• Maintain electrical/electronic elements of assemblies nickel-cadmium batteries
  
• Use and maintain common/special tools
  
• Maintain facilities for storage of flammable and hazardous materials
  
• Prepare requests for turn-ins and repair parts
  

Requirements

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Training

Job training for an aircraft electrician requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 19 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and in the field.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Electrical theory and system maintenance
  
• Troubleshooting procedures
  
• Soldiering skills

Helpful Skills

• Preference in mathematics and shop mechanics
  
• Problem solving
  
• Ability to use hand and power tools
  
• Working with electrics and electronic equipment

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with intelligence agencies, commercial airlines and other organizations that have fleets of airplanes/helicopters.