Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington Career Overview
As an Aircraft Assembly Technician, you play a vital role in the aerospace industry, where you are responsible for assembling various components and systems of aircraft. Your attention to detail and precision ensures that every part is correctly installed and functions reliably.
Key aspects of this role include:
Assembly and Integration: You will work on assembling airframes, engines, and other critical components, making sure that each piece works together seamlessly to meet safety and performance standards.
Quality Assurance: Your work involves conducting inspections and tests to verify that assemblies comply with regulatory and company standards. Ensuring quality is not just a task; it’s integral to maintaining the safety of aircraft.
Collaboration: You often collaborate with engineers, inspectors, and other technicians to troubleshoot issues and optimize assembly processes. Communication and teamwork are essential for successful project completion.
Technical Proficiency: Utilizing a range of tools and technologies, you will apply your technical knowledge to work with complex machinery and systems. Being adept with new methodologies and equipment is important in keeping pace with industry advancements.
Safety Standards: Adhering to stringent safety protocols is essential in your day-to-day activities. Protecting yourself, your colleagues, and future passengers begins with the integrity of the assembly process.
Your contribution as an Aircraft Assembly Technician directly impacts the performance and safety of the aircraft in the skies.
Aircraft Assembly Technician Salary in Washington
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington
To become an Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington, you will need specific educational qualifications and training programs that provide the necessary knowledge and skills for this role. Below are relevant college degree programs:
Aircraft Powerplant Technology
- Focuses on the principles and practices required to understand and repair aircraft engines.
- Typically offered as an associate degree program.
Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology
- Covers the structural components of aircraft, including fuselage, wings, and landing gear.
- Emphasizes maintenance practices and regulatory compliance.
- Often available as an associate degree program.
Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering Technology
- Provides a comprehensive understanding of aircraft design and aerodynamics.
- Equips you with the skills needed for applied engineering tasks.
- Typically offered as a bachelor’s degree program.
Aircraft Armament Systems Technology
- Focuses on the systems and maintenance related to aircraft armaments and munitions.
- Prepares you for roles involving the assembly and fixing of weapons systems on aircraft.
- Usually available as an associate degree program.
Aviation and Airway Management and Operations
- Teaches the management and operational aspects of the aviation industry.
- Prepares you for roles that may involve oversight of assembly procedures and compliance.
- Often available as a bachelor’s degree program.
Pursuing one of these educational paths will provide you with the foundational knowledge necessary for a career as an Aircraft Assembly Technician.
Best Schools to become a Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington 2024
Antelope Valley Community College District
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
National Aviation Academy of Tampa Bay
MIAT College of Technology
Broward College
Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
- Assemble, fit, fasten, and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles, or missiles, such as tails, wings, fuselage, bulkheads, stabilizers, landing gear, rigging and control equipment, or heating and ventilating systems.
Aircraft Assembly Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Washington
Mechanical Aptitude: You should possess a strong understanding of mechanical systems and the ability to work with various tools and machinery common in aircraft assembly.
Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in aircraft assembly. You must be able to follow complex blueprints and assembly instructions meticulously to ensure safety and functionality.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to troubleshoot issues that arise during the assembly process is essential. You will need to evaluate problems and implement effective solutions quickly.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with reading and interpreting technical drawings, schematics, and specifications is important. You should also be comfortable using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Excellent hand-eye coordination is critical to perform tasks that require assembling small components and parts accurately and efficiently.
Teamwork and Collaboration: You will often work as part of a larger team. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues will enhance productivity and safety.
Time Management: Prioritizing tasks and managing your time effectively will help meet production deadlines without sacrificing quality.
Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations applicable to aircraft assembly is vital. You should be committed to maintaining a safe working environment for yourself and your coworkers.
Adaptability: As technology and methods in aircraft assembly evolve, being open to learning new techniques and adapting to changes is necessary for continuous improvement and growth.
Physical Stamina: The role often requires standing for long periods and performing repetitive tasks. You should be physically capable of meeting these demands while maintaining focus and productivity.
Job Duties for Aircraft Assembly Technicians
Assemble parts, fittings, or subassemblies on aircraft, using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, or fasteners, such as bolts, screws, rivets, or clamps.
Attach brackets, hinges, or clips to secure or support components or subassemblies, using bolts, screws, rivets, chemical bonding, or welding.
Read blueprints, illustrations, or specifications to determine layouts, sequences of operations, or identities or relationships of parts.
Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- SAP software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington
The demand for Aircraft Assembly Technicians in Washington is influenced by the robust aerospace industry, particularly due to the presence of major companies such as Boeing and a network of suppliers and subcontractors.
As the aerospace sector continues to evolve, advancements in technology, such as the development of electric and hybrid aircraft, are expected to drive the need for skilled technicians who can assemble increasingly sophisticated systems.
The region is experiencing a steady growth rate in aerospace manufacturing, with projections indicating a positive trend in job opportunities as companies expand their operations in response to both domestic and international market demands.
Geographical hotspots for Aircraft Assembly Technician jobs in Washington include:
Seattle: Home to Boeing’s Commercial Airplanes division, Seattle offers a wealth of opportunities in both assembly and related support roles.
Renton: This area houses the Boeing 737 assembly plant, positioning it as a key location for assembly technicians involved in high-volume production.
Everett: The Boeing factory in Everett is responsible for assembling larger aircraft, including the 747, 767, and 777 models, creating numerous technician positions.
Spokane and Moses Lake: While these cities may not be as prominent as Seattle or Renton, they are emerging locations for aerospace manufacturing, including smaller firms that cater to specific niches in the industry.
Additionally, the Washington aerospace cluster fosters collaboration and innovation among various companies, which may lead to the creation of new firms and opportunities that further enhance the job market for assembly technicians.
Industry associations and workforce development initiatives are actively working toward filling the skills gap, thereby improving job prospects for aspiring Aircraft Assembly Technicians through training programs and apprenticeships.
The outlook for Aircraft Assembly Technicians in Washington is optimistic, with a combination of retirements and increased production demands likely to result in job openings over the coming years.
Top Related Careers to Aircraft Assembly Technician 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Visit the FAA's official website for regulations, standards, and guidance related to aircraft assembly and maintenance.
FAA WebsiteNational Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT)
NCATT provides certification programs and resources specifically designed for those in the aerospace industry, including training for technicians.
NCATT WebsiteAerospace Industries Association (AIA)
This industry association offers resources on workforce development, advocacy, and best practices in aerospace manufacturing.
AIA WebsiteAircraft Maintenance Technician Handbook – General (FAA-H-8083-30)
This handbook provides comprehensive information on aircraft assembly competencies and skills needed for a successful career.
Download HandbookWashington State Employment Security Department (ESD)
The ESD provides labor market information, job resources, and educational opportunities specific to Washington's aerospace industry.
ESD WebsiteBoeing Careers
As one of the largest aerospace manufacturers, Boeing offers career resources, job openings, and information on their educational programs for aspiring Aircraft Assembly Technicians.
Boeing CareersCommunity and Technical Colleges in Washington
Many colleges offer aviation technology programs and apprenticeships designed to prepare students for careers in aircraft assembly. Resources can be found through the Washington State Community and Technical Colleges system.
Washington State Community and Technical CollegesNational Aerospace Training and Research Center (NASTC)
This organization offers training resources and programs geared toward aerospace manufacturing and assembly technologies.
NASTC WebsiteAerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC)
AJAC provides apprenticeship programs for individuals seeking careers in the aerospace industry, including detailed information on becoming an Aircraft Assembly Technician.
AJAC WebsiteLinkedIn Learning
This platform offers online courses tailored to aircraft assembly, maintenance techniques, and industry-specific skills.
LinkedIn Learning
Utilize these resources to expand your knowledge, connect with industry professionals, and find opportunities that align with your career goals as an Aircraft Assembly Technician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aircraft Assembly Technician in Washington
What does an Aircraft Assembly Technician do?
An Aircraft Assembly Technician is responsible for assembling aircraft components and systems according to blueprints, technical documents, and specifications. This role includes tasks such as wiring, installing parts, and performing quality checks throughout the assembly process.What qualifications do I need to become an Aircraft Assembly Technician?
Most employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional qualifications may include technical training in aviation or related fields, as well as certifications from recognized programs.Is prior experience in aviation necessary?
While it is beneficial, prior experience is not always required. Many companies offer on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs for entry-level technicians. However, having a background in mechanics or electronics can enhance your employability.What skills are essential for this career?
Key skills include:- Attention to detail
- Mechanical aptitude
- Problem-solving abilities
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure
What are the employment prospects for Aircraft Assembly Technicians in Washington?
The aerospace industry in Washington is robust, with numerous opportunities available due to the presence of major airlines and manufacturing companies. Job prospects are generally strong, especially for candidates with the right training and skills.What is the typical salary range for Aircraft Assembly Technicians in Washington?
As of 2023, the salary range can vary based on experience and location, but the average salary for Aircraft Assembly Technicians typically falls between $45,000 and $70,000 per year.Are there opportunities for career advancement?
Yes, there are various paths for advancement. Technicians can move into supervisory roles, quality control, or specialized positions. Continuous learning and obtaining additional certifications can also open doors to higher roles within the industry.What shifts or hours can I expect as an Aircraft Assembly Technician?
Work hours can vary, with some technicians on standard day shifts and others working evenings, weekends, or overtime, especially during peak production periods. Flexibility is often required to meet project deadlines.Do I need to be familiar with specific tools or technologies?
Yes, you should be comfortable using various hand and power tools, as well as equipment such as torque wrenches and riveters. Familiarity with specialized software for design and assembly can also be advantageous.What safety protocols should I be aware of?
Safety is paramount in this field. Technicians must adhere to strict safety standards and protocols, which include wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following guidelines for handling tools and equipment safely. Understanding the potential hazards of working with aircraft and their components is critical.