Avionics aircraft maintenance engineers work in a range of environments such as indoors in workshops or the hangar, outdoors on the airfield, or on the flightline where aircraft await departure. Working conditions in the hangar are well ventilated and strict safety regulations ensure that risks are minimised.

They may work long hours, do shiftwork, work on weekends and may be on call.

Aircraft maintenance engineers use power tools such as pneumatic drills, grinders and riveters. Hoists are used to remove engines and other aircraft components, which can then be dismantled and tested using specialised equipment to check electrical signals and corrosion. In some cases components may be x-rayed or checked using magnetic inspection equipment to check for cracks that the naked eye may not notice. Aircraft maintenance engineers must wear protective clothing, such as overalls, safety glasses and ear muffs. In some cases, especially when working on the tarmac, they may also have to wear high visibility clothing.