The aviation industry is facing a severe shortage of licensed Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics, AMTs, and other aviation professionals. The talent outflow, coupled with a lack of new license holders, has created a perfect storm for aviation recruiting and hiring.

For years, aviation technicians have been some of the most highly regarded professionals in their field. Their knowledge of complicated systems, expertise in troubleshooting, and dedication to safety has been key to supporting the aviation industry. But, many experienced workers left the industry due to COVID-19, pay cuts, negative corporate culture, and pursuing other goals. Many companies are struggling to fill these open positions.

Salary Comparison

We previously explored how to retain talent and keep them from leaving. But, it can be beneficial to know where quality candidates are going and how much they are making there.

We conducted research to learn directly from A&Ps and AMTs the non-aviation jobs they feel fit them the best. We then studied each role to compare salaries, required qualifications, upward mobility, and current demand.

According to our research, here are six roles — and a few related jobs — for which A&Ps and AMTs are leaving aviation.

1. Biomedical Equipment Technician

Biomedical Equipment Technicians maintain and upgrade medical equipment such as imaging, heart-lung, and dialysis devices. Like aviation, the role involves careful and documented repair of sometimes delicate equipment with possibly severe consequences if the maintenance is not performed properly. Employers recognize the attention to detail aviation mechanics have learned while on the job and are quick to hire those jumping to this industry.

BMETs make on average $68,890 per year, with the top 90% of earners making over $86,848 annually. BMETs can make up to $120,000 per year with specialized skills and experience.

The duties of a BMET include assembly, repair, and functionality testing of medical equipment. Accurate, sensitive, and selective measurements must be taken and approved prior to returning equipment to service.

To become a BMET, one typically needs to obtain an associate degree in biomedical engineering or a related field. Given the salaries and excellent job prospects in the field, many mechanics can justify the additional education to enter the field.

2. Amusement Park Mechanic

Believe it or not, amusement park mechanics share many similarities with aviation mechanics. Park rides are typically large mechanical structures that use a heavy dose of hydraulics and electronic control. Non-destructive testing is also a major part of the job. Parks will often hire A&Ps with NDT experience.

Amusement park mechanics earn an average salary of around $42,000, though those at the top of the pay scale can earn up to $64,500. Like aviation, park rides must be maintained and inspected on a regular basis, or people can be seriously injured.

Many aviation techs find the switch to amusement park mechanics a logical and relatively simple change.

3. Wind Turbine Technician

Increasing demand for renewable energy sources and increasing job opportunities in the field are drawing more mechanics to leave aviation. Wind turbine technician is a specific role attracting many A&Ps and AMTs.

Governments around the world are investing heavily in renewables, and Wind is a significant source of renewable energy generation. A lack of qualified wind turbine technicians along with high demand for turbine construction and maintenance is driving a hiring spree in the field.

The average wind turbine technician makes $49,674, with the top techs bringing in $67,849. Aviation techs are taking note of the growing demand for renewable energy workers. And with projected increases in pay and opportunities continuing to rise year after year, there is no sign that this trend will slow down anytime soon.

4. Drone Operator and Technician

As the drone industry continues to grow, more and more aviation professionals are testing the waters as drone operators and technicians. Using their knowledge of aviation, mechanics are taking on work as both technicians and operators.

The average salary for a drone operator is $48,931, with the top 90% earning an average of $78,000. For technicians, the average salary is $44,269, with the top 90% earning an average of $62,500. Drones are a familiar combination of flight controls and avionics for A&Ps and AMTs. Transitioning to a drone technician is a natural process. Becoming an operator only requires training and an FAA test to be licensed.

Drone operators are in high demand. There are a number of industries that are increasingly relying on drone technology, including real estate, surveying, energy, construction, inspection, and defense.

5. Locomotive & Public Transportation Mechanic

Another field offers similar opportunities and salaries to A&P techs: locomotive and public transportation technicians. Transit bus mechanics earn an average salary of $45,986 per year, with the top 90% earning more than $66,000. Similarly, locomotive mechanics earn an average salary of $47,160 per year, with the top 90% earning more than $71,500.

Public transportation is rebounding following the pandemic. The industry is looking to replace mechanics lost to early retirement and alternative industries. This recent growth offers an opportunity for aviation techs looking for a change.

6. Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Construction and farming operations are highly dependent on heavy machinery. That’s why more and more aviation techs are making the switch to become heavy equipment mechanics. Not only do they have the technical expertise to keep heavy machinery running properly, but they also understand the importance of preventative maintenance.

Diagnostics and regular servicing can help minimize downtime and keep construction and farming machines running at peak efficiency. Heavy equipment mechanics earn an average salary of $50,792, with the top 90% making $65,500.

Find Top A&P and Aviation Talent with Fovea Aero

The above roles showcase the expertise and benefits that combine to make aviation techs and A&Ps so valuable to the industry. The temptation to move into better roles in other industries is putting a strain on hiring for A&P positions.

Fovea Aero can help your company find the top aviation and aerospace talent, no matter where they are in their career. We are an aviation-specific search firm that excels in placing high-level candidates in hard-to-fill positions. Our team of expert recruiters has a deep understanding of the aviation and aerospace industry, giving us the ability to source top talent that meets your individual needs.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you find the best A&Ps and aviation talent.