Flight instrument mechanic

What does an aircraft instrument technician do? – Tasks and work environment

An aircraft instrument technician is responsible for servicing, repairing, and calibrating instruments and electronics onboard aircraft. Tasks include troubleshooting advanced systems, replacing faulty components, and performing precise inspections according to strict safety standards. The work is often carried out in hangars or directly at airport workshops, where accuracy and quality are crucial for flight safety. Aircraft instrument technicians work in teams with other specialists and regularly communicate with pilots and engineers to ensure all instruments function correctly before and after each flight.

Salary development over time

The salary for aircraft instrument technicians has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing to 33 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary reached 34 800 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9% over three years. This trend reflects an increasing demand for technical expertise in the aviation industry and a growing need for qualified personnel capable of handling advanced instruments and electronics. The salary increase has been driven mainly by technological advancements, higher certification requirements, and general wage development within technical professions. Nevertheless, significant gender pay gaps remain within the profession.

Aircraft instrument technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,300 SEK/month (female), 35,200 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,900 SEK/month (male), 35,800 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 209 SEK/hour
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 75% of men's salary (women: 28,300 SEK, men: 37 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as an aircraft instrument technician, a high school education in aeronautical engineering is typically required, followed by post-secondary courses or vocational training in aeronautical engineering and electronics. Certifications and practical training periods are often mandatory, and ongoing professional development is necessary to stay updated on new technical systems. Good knowledge of English and technical documentation is essential for success in the profession.

• High school education: Aeronautical engineering program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational college or equivalent, 1–2 years
• Certifications: Specific licenses for aircraft maintenance (e.g., EASA Part-66)
• Practical training: Mandatory internship or traineeship
• Prerequisites: Approved grades in mathematics, physics, and English

Common benefits and compensations

Among the most common benefits for aircraft instrument technicians are shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and employer-sponsored pension schemes. Many also receive discounts or subsidies on meals and work clothing or tools as part of their employment package.

Competition and challenges

The job market for aircraft instrument technicians is characterized by some competition, especially since the profession belongs to the broader category of precision mechanics where only a limited number of positions are advertised. Although there are 341 job openings in Sweden, no precise forecast exists for this specific role due to limited statistical data. The profession demands high technical skill, precision, and the ability to solve complex problems quickly. Challenges also include irregular working hours and the need for continuous professional development to keep pace with technological innovations in the aviation industry.

Tips for aspiring aircraft instrument technicians

To succeed as an aircraft instrument technician, it is beneficial to have a strong interest in technology and details, with accuracy and analytical skills being crucial. Being solution-oriented helps in troubleshooting advanced instruments and electronics. Good communication skills facilitate teamwork with pilots and technicians, while flexibility is needed to handle shift work and rapidly changing tasks. A willingness to learn continuously is important, as the aviation industry evolves rapidly and requires ongoing education. Responsibility and methodical work contribute to high safety and quality standards. Patience and stress tolerance are also valuable, especially under time pressure or when facing unexpected technical problems.

Key facts about aircraft instrument technicians

• Education level: High school and post-secondary education required
• Occupational group: Precision mechanic
• Work environment: Aircraft hangars, airports, or workshops
• Job openings: 341 positions within the precision mechanic group
• Gender distribution: Significant salary differences between men and women

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, aircraft instrument technicians can advance to senior technician, supervisor, or specialize in specific instrument and electronics systems. There are also opportunities to work internationally, as certifications and experience are often valued abroad. Forecasts from the Employment Service are uncertain for this specific role due to limited statistics, but technological development and the ongoing need for safety inspections in aviation suggest that demand for qualified technicians will remain. In the precision mechanic occupational group, there are reported 341 job openings, indicating some mobility in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about aircraft instrument technicians

• What does an aircraft instrument technician earn?
  - An aircraft instrument technician has an average salary of 34 800 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 75% of what men do, with an average salary of 28,300 SEK compared to men's 37 900 SEK.
• What education is required to become an aircraft instrument technician?
  - High school education in aeronautical engineering and post-secondary courses and certifications are common requirements.
• What is the work environment like for aircraft instrument technicians?
  - The work takes place in aircraft hangars, at airports, or in workshops, often in teams with other technicians.
• Are there many job openings for aircraft instrument technicians?
  - There are 341 job openings in Sweden within the profession of precision mechanics.
• How has the salary for aircraft instrument technicians developed in recent years?
  - The average salary increased from 31,900 SEK in 2022 to 34 800 SEK in 2024.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and occupational pension schemes.