Often an avionics engineer works in collaboration with other technicians in the development and installation of brand new electronic systems for the aircraft, spacecraft or missiles.
A bachelor's degree is required to become an avionics engineer. However, some choose to go beyond a bachelor's and obtain a master's degree in avionics engineering.
In the field of avionics engineering, there are engineers who specialize in specific systems or parts of the systems. This could include flight-control equipment or computerized guidance. In order to keep up to the technological advances they should also keep attending training courses on latest developments.
It is also necessary for avionic engineers to obtain training, prior experience, and an operator's license in restricted-radio telephone operating. This is a license that is to be obtained from the Federal Communication Commission (FCC).
It may be necessary to have prior work experience when applying for jobs in avionic engineering. In general, both large aerospace companies and the armed forces can provide on-the-job training to help recent graduates or students gain this experience.
An avionics engineer generally begins his/her career as a trainee functioning under the command of skilled engineers. Further training can help them to get jobs in development and research.
The job outlook for avionics engineers seems rather fair through 2014. But as the aerospace industry is directly tied to government expenditures and the overall economy, employment opportunities can fluctuate.
The salaries of engineers in avionics jobs may vary depending on the kind of company they are working with or the size of airline they are employed with. In 2004, the mean wage of all avionics technicians and engineers was recorded to be $21.30 per hour. The most experienced of the avionics engineer made a further $27.85 per hour.
