Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians are unseen heroes of the aviation industry since they ensure that we reach our destination safely. They inspect, test, diagnose, repair and replace aircraft parts and components that are faulty, malfunctioning, or display signs of wear. They understand and love ... Continue Reading
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Explore Career What are the typical responsibilities of an Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician?
An Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician would typically need to:
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians work in or near major airports, in hangars, repair stations, or airfields. In some cases, they may work in climate-controlled shops. Typically, however, they work near aeroplanes and in windy environments that may also be loud due to aircraft engines. Civilian mechanics and technicians employed by the armed forces work on army installations and bases. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians often use ladders, forklifts, and other equipment to reach aircraft parts. They need manual and finger dexterity for precision work. To protect against injuries and loud noises, workers don protective gear, such as ear protection gear and glasses, and wear brightly coloured vests to be visible around aircraft.
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians primarily work full-time in 8-hour shifts, typically on rotation, but overtime may be needed. However, their schedules can be irregular, and they may work during nights, weekends, and holidays. While Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians have scheduled work, they may also need to work in an emergency.
Finding a new job might seem challenging. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians are generally employed by:
Professional associations and organisations like the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association are crucial for those pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications
Potential Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technicians typically require a period of supervised experience such as an internship, which you can head to directly after high school. To spend time under supervision, you must be over the age of 18, and to receive certification that will allow you to pursue this career, you must complete at least 30 months of on-the-job training.
Military experience qualifies you to enter the field as does a qualification from an authorised trade school.
As in any career, reading as much as possible about the profession and interviewing those working as Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians are other important ways to explore your interest.
Typically, Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians acquire associate degrees or certificates in Aerospace Engineering from programs approved by the relevant aviation authority.
Through coursework during 18 to 24 months, they learn about the tools and equipment they would use at work. They also learn about new technologies used in the latest aircraft, including composite materials, turbine engines, and electronic systems for aviation.
In some instances, Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians only have high school diplomas and receive on-the-job training at different aviation companies or in the military Without certification, Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians work under supervision until they become authorised. Some attend authorised and approved aviation maintenance technician schools to learn the trade and receive a certificate of completion, which could stand in place of the experience required by regulations and also allow you to take relevant certification exams.
However, with aircraft procedures becoming more complex, many employers now expect Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians to have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or related fields such as avionics, aviation technology, or aviation maintenance management.
A background in aviation flight instruments or computer repairs is essential for maintenance personnel who work with digital and computerised aircraft controls, systems, and flight instruments.
Certification demonstrates an Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, the passage of an examination, or some combination of the three. Certification from an objective and reputed organisation can help you gain professional credibility, build your expertise in a specific area, and stay up-to-date on technology.
Typically, certain specialisations require you to obtain certification for which you must sit for an oral and practical exam. For instance, to be authorised to inspect or carry out airframe and powerplant maintenance, you would need to be certified provided you fulfil the requirements of training and experience. To maintain this certificate, you must also continuously train at work.
Civilian aircraft mechanics usually hold some official certification and are authorised to work on all aircraft parts except electronic flight instruments, which is the responsibility of avionics technicians.
Repair stations certify avionics technicians to work on an aircraft’s electronic and flight instrument systems. To work on communications equipment, you may need relevant and authorised radiotelephone operator certification.
Voluntary certification is often seen as evidence of an individual’s drive and motivation, giving them a leg up for raises and promotions. Courses in physics or mathematics can also assist with landing more jobs.
Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years.
Experience can lead you to the roles of Lead Mechanic, Lead Inspector, or Shop Supervisor, especially if you have the authorisation to inspect. If you consider moving into senior positions, such as Inspector or Examiner working for aviation authorities, you should also take courses in writing, communication, and management.
Acquiring a bachelor’s degree and taking courses such as science, physics, and chemical engineering can also boost your chances, credibility and may assist you in transitioning to a new field. If you acquire certification in electronic flight instruments, you can work exclusively on them as an Avionics Technician.
Aspiring Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians should also consider relocating to rural areas with high demand for specialised workers.
Candidates with up-to-date skills, experience, and higher education, such as a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, have the best job prospects. Certifications in specialised operations such as inspection and engine repair further improve job prospects. Those with qualifications in diagnosing and repairing more specialised aircraft parts such as hydraulics and engines also land jobs faster.
Continuing professional development (CPD) is the holistic commitment of Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians towards enhancing personal skills and proficiency throughout their active careers through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. There are many CPD courses, seminars, and workshops to help professionals in the field.
CPD allows individuals to upskill continually, regardless of their age, job, or level of knowledge. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians must stay up-to-date with all the latest information to identify any knowledge gaps and progress to a new specialism.
As you acquire experience, you may also aim for additional certifications to work on specialised flight instruments, leading you to become avionics technicians.
What is the world’s busiest commercial airport?
It may come as a surprise that the world's busiest commercial airport is Hartsfield - Jackson Airport (ATL) in Atlanta, with more than 107 million passengers in 2018.
Aircraft Types
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians work on different aircraft types such as jets, propeller-driven planes, and helicopters. They may also specialise in commercial, private, non-commercial, and military aircraft. There is also specialisation on specific aircraft parts, such as the engine, hydraulics, electrical systems, and others.
Toolkit of Skills
While Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians require and use several skills on the job, there are a few particularly significant ones. Mechanics and technicians must be detail-oriented as they must adjust instruments and parts to meet precise specifications. For instance, they must tighten the bolts on the aeroplane wheels and must be tightened to the requisite tension using precision tools. Equally important are observational skills to help them recognize engine sounds, take gauge readings, and collect the information needed to assess the working of aircraft systems.
Specialisations
You may choose to work as a generalist on various aircraft types, such as jets, piston-driven aeroplanes, and helicopters. Or you may specialise in a section, such as the engine, hydraulic system, or electrical system, of a particular type of aircraft. Mechanics in independent repair service providers usually inspect and repair various kinds of aircraft. Keep in mind that some specialised operations need you to have experience and certification.
Airframe and powerplant mechanics are certified generalist mechanics who independently repair and maintain most aircraft parts, including engines, landing gear, brakes, and air-conditioning systems.
Avionics technicians service a plane’s electronic instruments, such as radio communication systems, radar systems, and navigation aids. You will need the relevant ratings, licenses or certifications to carry out repair and maintenance work in this field.
Designated airworthiness representatives inspect and test the airworthiness of aircraft and issue airworthiness certificates, which permit aircraft to fly. These representatives may work either in manufacturing or maintenance.
Mechanics authorised to inspect already hold airframe and powerplant certification and conduct comprehensive annual inspections of aircraft, among other tasks. They return aircraft to service following major repair work.
Personnel who hold certificates to carry out repair work may or may not hold other certificates. The certificates are issued by and valid for only particular certified repair stations and not transferable. They allow the holders to perform specific tasks.
When Do You Carry Out Maintenance Work?
Airlines schedule aircraft maintenance based on flight hours, interval between inspections, number of trips, or a combination of these factors. However, aircraft also need maintenance when specific problems arise or are recognised by mechanics or manufacturers.
Looking Ahead
Some airlines outsource mechanical maintenance staff from specialised aviation services rather than employ them. Roles with major airlines are expected to be more competitive, given the higher wages and travel benefits. However, small commuter and regional airlines are expected to offer the most roles, as they are growing rapidly. Keep in mind that the demand may exceed supply if fewer students enter technical schools each year.
While many passengers clap for aircraft pilots, they frequently overlook the role of Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians work day and night to ensure we travel safely. They must work fast while remaining calm since their work to inspect, diagnose, maintain, and replace faulty parts of an aircraft is extremely precise, and any mistake can prove costly in every way. If you are passionate about aviation and engineering and can work well under pressure, you should consider a position as an Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician.
Know your aircraft well and make sure to read technical manuals and the theory of operations. There is always more to learn. Know the rules and regulations. Remember that safety is paramount. Ask for help when you need it and stay positive. Be willing to help your colleagues.
More than 80% of our entire population has a fear of flying.
What do Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technicians do?
An Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician would typically need to:
Accredited
$82,390
