engineering
Soldier
Regular

Avionics Technician

As an Avionics Technician, you’ll be the expert behind the electronic systems that keep our helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) flying. From radar and navigation to communication and weapons control, you’ll inspect, repair and maintain the tech that keeps us one step ahead. Get hands-on with cutting-edge kit, earn industry-recognised qualifications, and play a vital role in every mission.

Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

Starting salary
£27,282
Age range
16 - 36

Apply now

Role details

Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.

Entry Requirements

Age

You can join between the ages of 16 – 36. At the time of your application you will need to be between 15 years & 9 months old and 35 years & 6 months old.

Fitness

Mid Thigh Pull 50kg
Medicine Ball Throw 3m
2km run 11 min 30 sec

More information about the fitness test

Education

GCSE Grade A*-B/9-6, or Scottish National 5 (A-B), in Science and Maths.
GCSE Grade A*-C/9-5, or Scottish National 5 (A-C), in English

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Unsure about any requirements? Our recruitment team is here to help.

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About the Role

Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) are responsible for keeping the Army's equipment working and ready to use.

Army aircraft are maintained and repaired by teams of highly skilled specialists. As an Avionics Technician you'll be trained to work on complex navigation, communication and flight control systems, as well as some mechanical aircraft systems. You will be exceptionally well trained with further opportunity along your career pathway for higher education and professional recognition.

Avionic Technicians have a high level of responsibility and are promoted rapidly to reflect it. You'll travel all over the world with your unit, servicing Army aircraft on operations and exercises, earning highly valuable civilian qualifications, and enjoying sport and Adventurous Training.

Key responsibilities

Maintain technically challenging avionic and aircraft systems
Prepare the aircraft for flight
Take responsibility for flight safety
Sustain high standards of engineering integrity in a demanding environment
Serve around the world, wherever the British Army has air systems
Promote to the rank of Lance Corporal (LCpl) on successful completion of your Initial Trade Training (ITT)
Specialise as a Civilian accredited avionic technician on promotion to Sergeant (Sgt)

Training

Step1
Your initial military training teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle.

If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the basic military training (short) course at Harrogate.
If you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the regular adult basic training.

Step 2
Next you'll head to MOD Lyneham, Wiltshire, to start your technical training. Over the next 44 weeks, you learn how to fix aircraft including some electrical, hydraulic, gearbox and gas turbine systems. You may also learn to drive military vehicles and gain licences.

Pay and Benefits

Qualifications You'll Earn

Level 3 Aircraft Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship
Civilian Aviation Authority Part 66 Category A3 theory modules
Civilian Aviation Authority Part 66 Category B2 theory modules
Bachelor of Engineering Honours (BEng Hons) in Aviation Engineering Management
Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (BEng Hons) in Aviation Engineering Management
Qualifications at different levels, in Leadership and Management
Opportunity to gain car and HGV vehicle licences

Your application journey

From application to training, you can expect a timeline of around 3-6 months.

Timelines can vary based on individual circumstances.

1.1-2 days

Online application

Complete your application form online. You'll need details about your education, work history, and why you want to join the Army.

Real Army Life

Ask a Soldier

Get honest answers from real soldiers in the roles you’re interested in. Read previously asked questions or ask your own.

Ask a question

What does a normal day actually look like?

Every day is different day in the Army, your not going to be doing the repetition of doing the same thing all the time because end of the day we have to adapt, we have to learn.
You could be on exercise for one whole week and the next week you could then be flying to somewhere else to do AT (Adventure Training), ski, snowboard.

Your day will usually follow a routine, with time for training, learning new skills and staying fit. There’s structure to help you progress, but every day brings something a bit different.

Craig D

Movement Controller

What is basic training like?

Phase 1 training will gradually push your limits, both physically and mentally, and you learn a lot about what you’re capable of.

Basic training is where you learn the fundamentals of Army life, from fitness and discipline to teamwork and core soldiering skills. It’s challenging, but you’re supported every step of the way as you build confidence and resilience.

Tori C

Royal Army Medical Services

Is it as intense all the time as people think?

There are varied periods where you’ll be extremely busy and also periods where you could be having downtime at home with family and friends.

Not at all. Some parts are intense, especially during training or when learning something new, but it’s not like that all the time. You’ll have structured periods where you’re focused and pushed to do your best, but there’s also downtime to reset, socialise and look after yourself. That balance helps you grow without feeling overwhelmed.

Jen C

Adjutant General's Corps