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2A391 Career Guide

Air Force

2A391: Avionics Systems Technician

Career transition guide for Air Force Avionics Systems Technician (2A391)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 2A391 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Avionics Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Aircraft Mechanic/Technician

$70K
Good matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license

Electrical Engineer Technician

$65K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering TechnologyExperience with specific CAD software

Field Service Technician (Aerospace)

$78K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Strong customer service skillsSpecific product knowledge related to the employer's products

Quality Control Inspector (Aerospace)

$60K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) certificationKnowledge of ISO 9000 standards

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 2A391 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As an avionics technician, you create mental models of complex aircraft systems to predict behavior, diagnose faults, and understand how different components interact.

This skill translates to understanding complex systems in civilian industries, allowing you to analyze, troubleshoot, and optimize system performance.

Pattern Recognition

You use pattern recognition to identify anomalies in avionics systems, detect potential failures before they occur, and quickly diagnose the root cause of malfunctions based on recurring symptoms.

This translates to an ability to identify trends, predict outcomes, and make informed decisions based on data analysis in various professional settings.

Procedural Compliance

Adhering to strict maintenance procedures and protocols is crucial for aviation safety. You consistently follow detailed manuals and guidelines to ensure quality and prevent errors.

Your dedication to following procedures and maintaining high standards will be invaluable in regulated industries where safety and precision are paramount.

Degraded-Mode Operations

You maintain operational readiness by troubleshooting and repairing systems under pressure. This includes rapidly diagnosing and resolving malfunctions to minimize downtime and maintain mission effectiveness.

Your calm under pressure and ability to maintain performance in challenging situations makes you an asset in fast-paced and high-stakes environments.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9086

You've been working with complex electromechanical systems on aircraft and possess troubleshooting skills with a keen eye for detail. You understand the importance of maintaining systems under demanding conditions, skills directly transferable to maintaining wind turbines.

Robotics Technician

SOC 49-9062

You've honed your skills in diagnosing and repairing intricate electronic systems and bring a methodical approach to problem-solving. This background makes you a perfect fit for maintaining and repairing robotic systems in manufacturing or logistics.

Building Automation Systems Technician

SOC 49-9041

You're adept at managing complex systems, and your knack for troubleshooting is invaluable. Your experience translates perfectly into maintaining and optimizing building automation systems, ensuring efficiency and reliability.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Avionics Fundamentals Course, Sheppard AFB, TX and A-10/F-15/U-2 Specific Avionics Course, Various Locations

1,100 training hours28 weeksUp to 15 semester hours in Avionics Technology or Electronics Technology

Topics Covered

  • •Basic Electronics Principles
  • •Digital Logic Circuits
  • •Microprocessor Fundamentals
  • •Avionics Systems Architecture
  • •Aircraft Wiring and Connector Repair
  • •Use of Electronic Test Equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, signal generators)
  • •Specific Avionics Systems Troubleshooting (A-10/F-15/U-2)
  • •Maintenance Documentation and Procedures

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Electronics Technician (CET)70% covered

While your experience covers much of electronics troubleshooting and repair, you may need to study specific electronics theory, industry standards, and some hands-on skills for consumer electronics.

CompTIA A+60% covered

Your experience covers much of the hardware and troubleshooting aspects, but you'll need to study PC architecture, operating systems, networking fundamentals, and some software troubleshooting.

Recommended Next Certifications

Certified Aviation Technician (AMT)Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) licenseCertified Quality Technician (CQT)Project Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
AN/APG-63/70/82 Radar Systems (F-15)Commercial weather radar systems, air traffic control radar
AN/AAS-35(V) Pave Penny Laser Spot Tracker (A-10)Industrial laser alignment and targeting systems
AN/ALR-69 Radar Warning ReceiverSpectrum analyzers, RF signal detectors
Central Integrated Test System (CITS)Automated diagnostic test equipment (ATE) for electronics
Integrated Data Modem (IDM)Military-grade data link systems, secure communication platforms
Automated Maintenance System (e.g., IMDS, ALIS)Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software, CMMS systems
AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles (NVG)High-end security and surveillance equipment, thermal imaging systems

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