Aerospace engineering technician

As an aerospace engineering technician, you could:

• inspect, service and maintain aircraft electrical, mechanical and electronic systems
• build and fit wings, engines and landing gear
• install and test navigation, communication and flight controls
• investigate faults and work with engineers to fix them
• assemble and install satellite instruments
• create 3D models of parts for manufacture, using computer-aided design (CAD) software
• complete safety documentation and maintenance logbooks

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to analyse quality or performance
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You may need to apply for a UK Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence (AML) for certain jobs, depending on your responsibilities.

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• the armed forces

With experience, you could:

• become a workshop supervisor or senior technician
• take further training to qualify as an aerospace engineer
• specialise in a particular area, like aircraft design, quality control or production management