Occupations in Demand

Job opportunities in the BC aerospace industry are dynamic and rapidly changing, reflecting the growth and success that the industry is experiencing in BC.

Employers from the BC aerospace industry have identified these roles as some of the highest-priority occupations needed to drive future growth:

Aerospace Engineers (NOC 21390) direct and coordinate the design, manufacture, and testing of aircraft and aerospace components and propulsion systems, including studying the aerodynamic performance of those components.

AME – Avionics (NOC 22313) install, adjust, repair and overhaul aircraft instruments, electrical or avionics systems as well as inspect and test these electrical systems following assembly, modification, repair or overhaul.

AME – Maintenance (NOC 72404) troubleshoot, inspect, repair, test and certify the airworthiness of aircraft components including, engines, flight controls, hydraulic, oxygen systems and other various other systems, while ensuring the maintenance function is completed on time and documented.

AME – Structures (NOC 72404) manufacture or repair aircraft structural assemblies, equipment and components using composite or advanced materials including fiberglass, plastic or synthetic components while ensuring maintenance operations are conducted appropriately.

Composite Structure Technicians (NOC 72404) use their knowledge of composite structures to build, repair, and replace aircraft structural components by fabricating panels, repairing sheet metal, and removing damaged metal structures, often bonding metal structures together to finish them.
CNC/NC Programmers and Operators (NOC 72100) use a variety of machine tools such as CNC boring machines, lathes and mills to automatically fabricate, modify or repair precision parts and instruments, using their knowledge of CNC programming software and operation and machining procedures.

Data Analysts (NOC 21223) use their understanding of data gathering and analysis to design data collection mechanisms and interpret data flowing from the vast array of aircraft sensors and safety equipment that are part of typical modern aircraft.

Design/Software Technicians (NOC 21231) both develop new software for running aircraft systems as well as maintain the safety and effectiveness of existing software that control multiple aircraft systems.

Gas Turbine Engine Technicians test, troubleshoot, repair, overhaul, rebuild, and inspect gas turbine engines in accordance with precise aviation standards and regulations.

Photo credit MTU Maintenance Canada

Information Technology (IT) (NOC 20012) Professionals use their knowledge of information technology systems to support various aspects of the processes for designing, developing, repairing and tracking aircraft component manufacturing and repairs.

Machinists (NOC 72100), Welders (NOC 72106)  and Millwrights (NOC 72400) use a variety of machine tools such as lathes or saws to manually fabricate, modify or repair precision parts and instruments, using their knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties and machining procedures.

Mechanical Assemblers (NOC 93200), Structural Assemblers (NOC 93200) and Inspectors (NOC 93200) are involved with, fabricating, assembling, installing, and inspecting aircraft mechanical & structural components and materials on aircraft subassemblies during the manufacturing process.

Mechanical Engineering Technologists (NOC 22301) and Technicians (NOC 22301) install, run, and maintain equipment such as wind tunnels that are used to develop, test and produce aircraft components as part of ensuring the safety and precision of aircraft systems, ensuring test procedures are performed appropriately and the data is recorded appropriately.

NDT Technicians (NOC 22230) conduct tests on the condition of aerospace materials and components to determine serviceability under applicable codes, specifications and standards, while certifying the condition of the tested parts, documenting inspections performed and disposing of unsafe components.

Painters (NOC 94213) and Paint Preppers (NOC 94213) prepare, mark and paint all paintable aircraft and aerospace components, including aircraft skin, propellers, instruments and engines.

Planners (NOC 22301) collaborate with manufacturing and production to ensure that the material requirements for fabricating and assembling aircraft products are incorporated into planning.

Process Technicians and Operators use equipment, machinery or chemical processes such as thermal barrier coating, or plasma spray machines, to clean and strip aircraft components and surfaces in preparation for manufacturing, repair or maintenance.

Photo credit Conair – Jeff Bough