Avionics mechanic

What does an Avionikmekaniker do? – Tasks and work environment

An avionikmekaniker is responsible for installation, maintenance, and repair of electronic systems onboard aircraft and helicopters. Tasks include troubleshooting complex navigation and communication systems, as well as calibrating advanced flight electronics. The work is often performed in hangars, at airports, or directly on the aircraft apron, where the environment can be noisy and requires great precision. Safety standards are high, and working hours may vary depending on operational needs, sometimes involving on-call or shift work.

Salary development over time

The profession of avionikmekaniker has shown a steady increase in salary over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK, which increased to 33 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 800 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 9% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by technological advancements in the aviation industry and an increased demand for specialized avionics skills. The demand for qualified mechanics has risen, while certification requirements have become more comprehensive. Although the profession remains relatively small, the industry's high safety standards and technical complexity help maintain high salary levels and a positive trend.

Avionikmekaniker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,300 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 40,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 209 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 37 900 SEK, Women 28,300 SEK (women earn 75% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location, but specific figures are unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an avionikmekaniker, a high school education with a focus on aeronautical engineering is usually required, followed by specialized courses in avionics. The education is often supplemented with practical training or internships at airlines or maintenance facilities. Certifications according to international standards are mandatory to work independently on aircraft systems.

• High school: Aeronautical engineering program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or technical training with avionics specialization (1–2 years)
• Certification: EASA Part-66 or equivalent
• Practical training: Mandatory internships or traineeships in the aviation industry
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics, physics, and English

Common benefits and compensations

Avionikmekaniker are often offered benefits such as shift and night work premiums, wellness allowances, and sometimes staff travel or discounted flights. Some employers also provide work clothing, tool allowances, and opportunities for further training during working hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession of avionikmekaniker is specialized, and competition for positions can vary depending on the region and the state of the aviation industry. The availability of job openings is relatively good, with 341 advertised positions within the profession. At the same time, the profession requires continuous skills development to keep up with technological advancements and meet strict regulatory requirements. High demands for accuracy, safety, and responsibility are constant, which can be mentally demanding. The lack of women in the field persists, and the gender pay gap is significant, posing a challenge for the industry's future attractiveness and diversity.

Tips for those wanting to become an Avionikmekaniker

To succeed as an avionikmekaniker, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with meticulousness and a sense of responsibility. An analytical mindset aids in troubleshooting complex electronic systems, while patience and perseverance are needed when precision work is required under time pressure. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other technicians and pilots, and a willingness to continually learn is crucial in a rapidly evolving industry. Proficiency in English is often necessary, so language skills are advantageous. Actively seeking internships and networking during studies increase employment chances. Finally, a structured and safety-conscious work approach significantly benefits personal development and flight safety.

Key facts about Avionikmekaniker

• Education level: High school and post-secondary vocational training required
• Work environment: Airports, hangars, and workshops with high safety standards
• Typical work form: Shift work and sometimes on-call duties
• Demand: 341 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Certification according to EASA Part-66 or equivalent

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an avionikmekaniker can take on more advanced roles such as supervisor, trainer, or specialist in a specific aircraft system. There are also opportunities to work internationally or further education to become an engineer or technical inspector. The employment agency’s forecasts for the profession do not provide an exact future outlook due to limited data, but technological development and increased certification requirements suggest continued demand. The rapid technological progress in aviation makes skilled avionikmekaniker a valuable resource, especially for employers seeking specialists in advanced flight electronics.

Frequently asked questions about Avionikmekaniker

• What does an Avionikmekaniker earn?
  - The average salary is 34 800 SEK per month, but it varies between 28,300 SEK and 40,900 SEK depending on experience and employer.
• What education is required to become an avionikmekaniker?
  - High school education with a focus on aeronautical technology, along with post-secondary courses and certification according to EASA Part-66, are typically required.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 37 900 SEK, while women earn 28,300 SEK, which corresponds to 75% of men's salary.
• What is the job market outlook for avionikmekaniker?
  - Currently, there are 341 job openings, but the future outlook is uncertain according to the Employment Service.
• What are the most common work environments?
  - Work mainly occurs at airports, hangars, and workshops with high safety standards and often shift work.
• Is certification required to work as an avionikmekaniker?
  - Yes, certification according to EASA Part-66 or equivalent is required to perform work independently on aircraft systems.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the field?
  - Progression to supervisor, trainer, or specialist in aircraft systems, or further education to become an engineer, is possible.