BEST AVIATION CAREERS

1. Pilot (airline, corporate, charter, fractional ownership, air taxi, flight instructor, military, test pilot)Airline pilots begin their careers with the regionals and may move on to the majors; commercial pilots usually have a lower experience threshold before hiring—and commercial opportunities are growing; and flight instructors often build time to qualify for another pilot career. Military pilots may see fewer opportunities in the future if unmanned aerial vehicles become prevalent in military operations.Salary range: $15,000–$200,0002.

Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic Mechanics must be federally certified and are responsible for maintaining aircraft in airworthy and safe operating condition. They may work with jet or reciprocating engines and airframes constructed from sheet metal or composite materials. Salary range: $25,000–$80,0003.

Air Traffic Controller Air traffic controllers may work in a high-pressure environment and specialize in ground, departure or en route control as they direct the flow of air traffic. A controller must be federally certified, know federal regulations and be able to quickly implement emergency procedures if necessary. Salary range: $58,000–$139,0004.

Avionics Technician An avionics technician repairs, tests and installs aviation equipment. Such technicians must have a knowledge of electronics, computers and math, and they must possess analytical skills to diagnose equipment problems. Vocational school or two years’ training/education is typically required.Salary range: $36,000–$56,0005.

Airline Dispatcher Dispatchers normally have the authority to dispatch and direct/divert airline flight operations, monitor the progress of flights and advise flight crews of conditions affecting the safety of flights.Salary range: $20,000–$150,0006.

Meteorologist A meteorologist needs a strong background in advanced math and physics, and an ability to interpret and analyze atmospheric data effectively in order to create forecasts for flight operations. A college degree is typically required.Salary range: $34,000–$106,0007.

Structural EngineerThese engineers develop technical solutions for complex structural problems. They must understand engineering principles, interpret drawings and analyze aircraft structures. A college degree is typically required. Salary range: $50,000–$80,0008.

Electrical EngineerThese engineers design and integrate electrical components and systems. They must understand electrical theory and schematics and possess solid science, math, analytical and trouble-shooting skills. A college degree is typically required. Salary range: $50,000–$100,0009.

Propulsion Engineer These engineers work with installation, testing and analysis of aircraft engines and must have knowledge of fuel, exhaust, combustion and other engine systems, as well as science, math and analytical skills. A college degree is typically required. Salary range: $50,000–$100,00010.

Human Factors & Industrial DesignIndividuals in these positions must be able to combine their knowledge of engineering and technology with elements of psychology in order to develop smooth-working interfaces between machines and humans, with a focus on usability, ergonomics and aesthetic product design. A college degree is typically required.Salary range: $43,000–$134,000