Technicien·ne en systèmes avioniques

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· ne en systèmes avioniques role at Canadian Armed Forces | Forces armées canadiennes

Overview

As a military personnel, avionics systems technicians are responsible for maintaining all airborne electronic systems of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). As members of the aircraft maintenance team, they handle first-line maintenance operations, including pre-flight and post-flight procedures for all types of aircraft.

Their main responsibilities include:

• Performing functional tests, preventive and corrective maintenance, and calibration of the following systems and their components:
• Embedded communication systems
• Intercom
• Search radars
• Fire control radars
• Acoustic detectors
• Infrared radars
• Electronic warfare systems
• Navigation systems
• Compass
• Flight control systems
• Electrical wiring interconnection circuits
• Assembling and using testing equipment for maintaining the aforementioned systems
• Using computer-controlled test stations and maintaining them
• Acting as an instructor in technical training units or basic training units
• Filling aircraft maintenance forms and collecting statistical data
• Using aeronautical service equipment
• Performing first-line maintenance tasks such as ground guiding, parking, towing, starting, fueling, cleaning, and de-icing

Work Environment

Avionics systems technicians are mainly based at an air force base, working in aircraft maintenance workshops, hangars, onboard aircraft, laboratories, or on flight lines. They may work shifts and overtime. Geographically, their postings can vary across CAF bases and squadrons in Canada, including the Arctic, and internationally to meet Canada's commitments to NATO and the UN.

If you choose a career in the Regular Force, you will be assigned to your first base after completing the required training. While there is some flexibility in postings, not all requests can be accommodated, and relocations are expected. Reserve members are assigned to a specific reserve unit and do not have to relocate unless they volunteer for a different assignment or deployment.

Enlistment Programs

• Direct enlistment options
• Subsidized study options

This position requires candidates to have completed at least Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec, including General Mathematics or equivalent. Ideally, candidates will have a college diploma or a 'Red Seal' in a related civilian trade, which the CAF will evaluate for credit towards military qualification.

Foreign education may also be recognized.

Training and Subsidized Study Programs

The CAF will pay tuition fees for selected recruits enrolled in approved college programs. Trainees follow basic military training and summer on-the-job training. Full-time salary includes medical and dental care, paid vacations, and other benefits. In exchange, recruits commit to serving in the CAF for a specified period.

For more information, see the Paid Education programs.

Training

The initial training is the Basic Military Qualification Course at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. It teaches basic skills and common knowledge for all military roles. The training is physically demanding to maintain CAF fitness standards.

Avionics technicians attend the Canadian Forces Aerospace and Technology School (ETGAFC) in Borden, Ontario, for an eight-week mechanical and aircraft maintenance course. After assignment to a squadron, they attend a 36-week professional training course covering topics such as semiconductor devices, digital logic, wiring, magnetron and microwave theory, computer architecture, and inspection and repair of avionics systems.

Applicants enrolled in the PIESMR program may also undertake part or all of their technical training at a Canadian post-secondary institution approved by the CAF.

Advanced training opportunities include courses in aircraft maintenance, lifecycle management, fluid handling, corrosion control, technical writing, quality assurance, and flight safety investigation.

As they progress, avionics technicians demonstrating aptitude may access advanced instruction in technical administration and leadership/management courses.

Part-Time Options

This part-time employment option is available through the Reserve Force at selected locations in Canada. Reserve members typically serve one evening per week and some weekends, with the possibility of full-time service during short periods. They are paid during training and are not obligated to relocate unless they volunteer for deployments or transfers.

Reserve avionics technicians serve with the Royal Canadian Air Force, often at CAF bases and tactical units across Canada. They usually perform up to 12 days of service per month, with eligibility for full-time service and benefits, including pension contributions.

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