Employment of aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians is projected to grow 6 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations.
Modest employment growth is expected as air travel gradually increases over the coming decade. However, as airlines increasingly outsource maintenance work to other countries, employment growth is expected to be limited.
Job prospects should be best for mechanics and technicians who hold an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate and a bachelor’s degree in aircraft maintenance. Job prospects also will be better for those who keep up with technical advances in aircraft electronics and composite materials.
Job opportunities may arise from the need to replace mechanics who leave the workforce. Over the next decade, many aircraft mechanics are expected to retire. As older mechanics retire and younger mechanics advance, entry-level positions may open up.
However, if airlines continue to send maintenance work to other countries, competition for new jobs will remain strong.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition