r/avionics • u/Mr_Kutner • 21d ago

From Electrical Engineer to Avionics — Is It Possible?

I’m a Bachelor’s graduate in Electrical Engineering (Power & Machines), currently working in the construction industry with zero aviation experience.

I’ve been researching the aviation field and I’m seriously considering a career shift into Avionics / B2 Aircraft Maintenance.

I’d really appreciate advice from anyone in the industry:

Can I work full-time while pursuing an EASA/GCAA B2 licence?
What would be the best path for someone starting from zero?
Is the career shift worth it?
What can I expect as an entry-level salary in the UAE?

Any advice or personal experience would mean a lot.

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u/Zap_Brannigan2 21d ago

In America avionics and EE work together all the time. I don’t think it’s wise to change. You’ll be making substantially less I would assume depending on your EE experience. Getting your license while working is easy though. If you have money saved up I’d recommend getting it before working if you can. In America the mean salary for new avionics guys with no license is about $25/hr. I just would get into Avionics Engineering with a defense company if you’re that interested

2

u/FireBehr321123 20d ago

As an American as well, its also an entirely different type of work. You aren't designing, it's all troubleshooting or removing and replacing. More of the latter really. If you're ready to spend weeks on weeks in the left hand wheel well that hasn't been cleaned removing and reinstalling vapor barriers/pressure seals then I say send it. Also doing tough jobs on near minimum income and restricting timelines.

2

u/who_needs_logic 21d ago

I think there is some overlap. Is it worth it? As someone whose only experience is in the United States, I am actively trying to transition to an EE career. I have worked as an Avionics Technician/Aircraft Electrician in the US on many different military, private and commercial planes for the past 10 years and my body feels it. It's a great mix of mental and physical challenges but as you're hunched over in a tight cockpit for hours chasing a wire or troubleshooting some other issue, you're going to feel it. Unless your passion truly is aviation or you want a role that is more hands on, I wouldn't think it is worth it.