Avionics

The cockpit of a 757 jumbo jet is filled with a bewildering array of knobs, switches, displays, and gauges, all of which are essential for keeping a large aircraft flying safely. These devices -- and all electronic devices aboard aircraft -- comprise the field of avionics. If you love airplanes or working with electronics, then a career in avionics may be for you.

Many careers in avionics deal with military aircraft. A large portion of military spending on aircraft is spent developing new electronics for fighter jets, bombers, unmanned drones, and satellites. To access these careers you will likely need a government security clearance, as many military avionics projects are classified and have restricted access. You will likely not need military experience to be required for a position, as military aircraft development is largely handled by private aerospace contractors working for the government. Major military aircraft developers are clustered in Denver and Southern California, which are two of the hottest markets for careers in avionics.

Civilian avionics is also a booming industry. Increasingly large numbers of consumers are taking to the skies in private aircraft, and they want high-end avionics to ensure their safety and comfort while flying. Large GPS makers often have separate avionics divisions to develop navigation and flight monitoring equipment for civilian aircraft. There are career opportunities in installing or servicing these systems, as well as avionics sales and training programs. With private dollars pouring into the avionics market, there are always new jobs available in aviation for those trained in aircraft electronics.

If you are interested in a career in avionics, taking an aptitude test may help determine whether your skills match the job skills required for avionics jobs. Most positions will require someone with technical experience in electronics or special training for avionics. You will need to work well in teams, as complicated flight systems require many different people working together to develop, test, and produce avionics equipment. These jobs also require a passion for aircraft and aviation, as many work hours will be spent working inside aircraft or thinking about how products will be used inside them. If these descriptions match your own skills and passions, a career assessment could help place you in a rewarding career in avionics.