5 Exciting jobs (that don’t involve flying) you will enjoy if you love aviation

Aviation is an exciting field, but it's not all flying planes. Many jobs involve aviation in some way, and they can be just as fun as flying. These jobs can be just as exciting and rewarding as any other job in the aviation industry, and they might even give you a chance to get your feet wet in aviation without having to leave the ground.

Of all the non-flying aviation jobs out there, here are five of the most exciting and interesting ones that you’re sure to enjoy.

#1 Air Traffic Controller

Air traffic controllers are the people who guide airplanes in and out of airports, keeping them safe and on time. Air traffic controllers also oversee the entire airspace around an airport, making sure that planes don't collide or get too close to each other. It's a demanding job that requires a lot of focus, attention to detail, and a good sense of humor.

Air traffic controllers work in towers or on the ground at airports across the country. They have to be able to make quick decisions under pressure, but they also need excellent communication skills so they can talk clearly with pilots and other controllers.

Air traffic controllers work at air traffic control centers, which are located on the ground near airports. They work shifts that can last 12 hours or more. Their hours vary by location and season—in some areas, they might work nights or weekends only; in others, they may work 24/7 throughout the year.

As of 2020, over 14,000 federal air traffic controllers oversaw things in the US skies, according to the FAA. Over the last five years, the FAA has hired over 5000 air traffic controllers and will continue hiring more in the coming years. So, you have a high chance of landing a job in this sector as long as you have the right skills and training.

Average annual salary: $93,337

#2 Airframe Maintenance Expert

Airframe maintenance experts are responsible for keeping aircraft in good working order. They inspect, repair, and maintain the physical structure of an aircraft, including its fuselage and wings. Airframe maintenance experts also make sure that all parts of an airplane are maintained in good condition, as well as ensure that all repairs are made by a certified mechanic.

Airframe maintenance experts must be familiar with all aspects of aircraft construction and operation, so they can identify any problems that may arise during flight. These experts must also have a high level of technical skills. They also need expert communication skills to communicate with pilots and passengers about various physical aspects of the plane and their opinions regarding them.

To become an airframe maintenance expert, you must receive training and education from an FAA-approved institution and program. SJVC is one of the few FAA-approved quality institutions in the US that offers this program. Once you’ve completed your program as an airframe maintenance expert, you can work on safety checks, aircraft service, repair, remove and replace major aircraft parts, and so on. 

Average annual salary: $76,030

#3 Aviation Manager

The aviation industry is a fast-paced and ever-changing one. You can easily get lost in the shuffle if you are not careful. That is why an aviation manager is so important. They keep everything running smoothly; whether it be planning a trip or keeping track of employees, they do it all.

Without an aviation manager, the entire operation would fall apart. It is their job to make sure that everything goes smoothly and nothing falls through the cracks. If not for them, there would be no way for anyone to know what was happening with their flight or where it was going.

Average annual salary: $176,822

#4 Flight Test Engineer

Flight test engineers are the people who spend their days making sure that planes work as well as possible. This can range from simply conducting tests on an aircraft's performance to working with the design team to improve designs and create new ones.

Flight test engineers work in the testing phase of aircraft production and development. They prepare and analyze data from test flights to ensure that the aircraft is safe for use by pilots and passengers. They also help develop new procedures or technologies that enhance safety and efficiency.

This is an exciting job because you'll be able to see all kinds of different things about aircraft, including how they perform, how they are designed, and how they are built. 

Average annual salary: $121,235

#5 Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineers design, develop and test aircraft, spacecraft, and other flying machines. They also plan the use of aeronautical knowledge for commercial and military purposes.

As an aerospace engineer, you could be involved in any number of exciting projects. Aerospace engineers may work on the design of commercial aircraft or spacecraft, or they may work on military projects such as missiles and drones.

The field of aerospace engineering is a highly competitive one, so it's important to have a strong background in math and science if you want to get into this field. 

Average annual salary: $122,270

So, the next time someone asks you what your dream aviation job is, consider telling them about one of these positions that offers excitement and also plenty of opportunities for advancement.