Career Progression as an Aircraft Mechanic: Options & Requirements

As an aircraft mechanic, you will be responsible for maintaining and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems of aircraft. This critical role ensures the safety and reliability of aircraft and is essential to the aviation industry. In this post, we will explore the different job responsibilities and duties of an aircraft mechanic, the skills and qualifications required, and the potential career progression opportunities available. Whether you are a current student or a working professional looking for a career change, we hope this post will provide valuable information and inspiration for those interested in pursuing a career as an aircraft mechanic. 

What’s the difference between an aircraft mechanic, an aerospace engineer, and an avionics technician?

An aircraft mechanic, an aerospace engineer, and an avionics technician are all careers in the aviation industry, but they have distinct roles and responsibilities.

An aircraft mechanic is responsible for maintaining and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems of aircraft to ensure their safe and reliable operation. This includes performing routine inspections and preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repairing malfunctions, and making necessary adjustments and modifications.

An aerospace engineer, on the other hand, is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and overseeing the production of aircraft, spacecrafts, satellites, and missiles. They work on the overall design and performance of these systems, and use their knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science to create new technology.

An avionics technician, also known as an avionics systems technician, is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the electronic systems on aircraft, such as navigation, communication, and flight control systems. They work with complex electronic systems, such as radar, GPS, and flight data recorders, and must have a thorough understanding of the principles of electronics and electrical systems.

Aircraft Mechanic Job Description 

As an aircraft mechanic, you will be responsible for maintaining and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems of aircraft to ensure their safe and reliable operation. This includes performing routine inspections and preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repairing malfunctions, and making necessary adjustments and modifications.

Specific duties may include

• Inspecting and servicing aircraft systems such as engines, landing gear, and flight controls
• Replacing and repairing parts as necessary
• Reading and interpreting technical manuals and blueprints
• Keeping accurate records of maintenance and repair work
• Collaborating with other team members to troubleshoot and solve problems

To be successful in this role, you will need a strong understanding of aircraft systems and the ability to work with precision and attention to detail. You will also need to be able to work independently and as part of a team, and be able to effectively communicate with other members of the maintenance crew.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Formal training in aircraft mechanics, such as an associate degree or certification from an FAA-approved program
• A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and blueprints
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills
• Must pass pre-employment background checks and drug screening

This is a full-time role and may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on the company. Some travel may be required, including international.

A career as an aircraft mechanic can be challenging and rewarding. With experience, it may lead to advancement opportunities such as lead mechanic, supervisor, or manager.

Aircraft Mechanic Salaries

The starting salary for an aircraft mechanic can vary depending on factors such as location, employer, and level of education and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for aircraft mechanics and service technicians in the United States was $64,090 in May 2020.

Starting salaries for aircraft mechanics can range from around $35,000 to $50,000 per year, but this can vary depending on the company, location, and other factors. Entry-level mechanics may start at the lower end of this range, while those with more experience or specialized certifications may command higher starting salaries.

As aircraft mechanics gain experience, they may be able to advance to higher-paying positions such as lead mechanic, supervisor, or manager. With experience, the earning potential can be quite good. According to BLS, the top 10 percent of aircraft mechanics and service technicians earned more than $90,660.

It’s worth noting that the aviation industry may have some fluctuations, and it’s also affected by regional and global economic situations, so the earning potential may vary in some cases.

Aircraft Mechanic Typical Day

A typical day in the role of an aircraft mechanic may involve a variety of tasks, including performing routine inspections, troubleshooting and repairing malfunctions, and making necessary adjustments and modifications to aircraft systems.

The day may start with a team meeting to review the work schedule and any upcoming projects or maintenance tasks. After that, the aircraft mechanic may begin by performing a thorough inspection of the aircraft, checking for any obvious signs of wear and tear or damage. They may then begin working on any scheduled maintenance tasks, such as replacing parts or performing routine checks on the engines, landing gear, and flight controls.

During the day, the aircraft mechanic may also be called upon to troubleshoot and repair any malfunctions or issues that arise. This may involve identifying the problem, researching and consulting technical manuals and blueprints, and making repairs or replacing parts as necessary.

As the day progresses, the aircraft mechanic may also be responsible for keeping accurate records of the maintenance and repair work performed. This may include completing paperwork and entering information into computer systems.

At the end of the day, the aircraft mechanic may be involved in a final inspection of the aircraft, ensuring that all work has been completed to the highest standards and that the aircraft is ready for safe operation.

It’s important to note that the work schedule of an aircraft mechanic can be variable and may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on the company and the needs of the aircraft. Some travel may also be required, including international.

Aircraft Mechanic Career Prospects

A career as an aircraft mechanic can be challenging and rewarding, with opportunities for growth and advancement. With experience, an aircraft mechanic can progress to higher-paying positions, such as lead mechanic, supervisor, or manager.

Lead mechanics are responsible for supervising a team of aircraft mechanics and overseeing the maintenance and repair of aircraft. They may also be responsible for scheduling work and ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and to the highest standards.

Supervisors may be responsible for overseeing a group of lead mechanics and coordinating the maintenance and repair of a fleet of aircraft. They may also be responsible for budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.

Managers are responsible for overseeing the maintenance and repair of a large fleet of aircraft, and may also be responsible for managing a team of supervisors, lead mechanics, and other maintenance staff. They may also be responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures, and for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

In addition, some aircraft mechanics may choose to specialize in a certain type of aircraft, such as helicopters, commercial, or military aircraft, that can lead to further career opportunities.

It’s worth noting that the aviation industry may have some fluctuations, and it’s also affected by regional and global economic situations, so the career prospects may vary in some cases.

Pros and Cons of being an Aircraft Mechanic 

Being an aircraft mechanic can be a challenging and rewarding career, with many pros and cons.

Pros

• Job stability: The demand for aircraft mechanics is expected to remain steady, as the aviation industry continues to grow and new aircraft are developed.
• Career advancement: With experience, aircraft mechanics can advance to higher-paying positions such as lead mechanic, supervisor, or manager.
• Variety of work: Aircraft mechanics may work on a variety of different types of aircraft, such as commercial, military, or private aircraft, which can provide a challenging and interesting work environment.
• Good pay: The median annual salary for aircraft mechanics is $64,090 per year, and the top 10 percent of aircraft mechanics earned more than $90,660 per year.
• Job satisfaction: Aircraft mechanics play a critical role in ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft, and can take pride in knowing that their work is essential to the aviation industry.

Cons

• Physical demands: Being an aircraft mechanic can be physically demanding, as it involves working in tight spaces and lifting heavy equipment.
• Risk of injury: The work can involve exposure to hazardous chemicals and materials, and there is a risk of injury from equipment and machinery.
• Schedule: Some aircraft mechanics may have to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, and may be required to travel, including internationally, which can disrupt personal and family life.
• Stressful: Aircraft mechanics may have to work under tight deadlines and pressure in order to meet the safety and reliability of the aircraft.
• Technical skills: Being an aircraft mechanic requires a strong understanding of aircraft systems and the ability to work with precision and attention to detail, which can be demanding and challenging.

In summary, a career as an aircraft mechanic can be challenging and rewarding, but it also requires a high level of technical skill, attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure. The job can be physically demanding, and the schedule may be unpredictable, but it can be a rewarding career with good earning potential and opportunities for advancement.

Aircraft Mechanic Interview Questions

Question: What experience do you have working as an aircraft mechanic?

Answer: I have [X number] years of experience working as an aircraft mechanic. I have worked on a variety of different types of aircraft, including [commercial/military/private aircraft], and I am proficient in performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting and repairing malfunctions, and making necessary adjustments and modifications.

Question: How do you stay current with developments and advancements in the aviation industry?

Answer: I stay current with developments and advancements in the aviation industry by regularly reading trade publications and attending industry conferences and seminars. I also stay informed by taking additional training and certification courses to maintain my skills and knowledge up to date.

Question: Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot and repair a complex problem on an aircraft.

Answer: One example was when I was working on a [type of aircraft] and the engine was not starting. I followed the troubleshooting procedures and discovered that the fuel system was clogged. I cleaned the fuel system, replaced the fuel filter and the engine started as it should. I then ran a full system check and found no other issues. I documented the problem and the solution I applied, and reported it to the supervisor.

Question: How do you prioritize and manage your workload?

Answer: I prioritize my workload by first addressing any urgent or safety-critical tasks, then moving on to scheduled maintenance tasks, and finally addressing any other tasks as they arise. I use a checklist and schedule to keep track of my progress and ensure that all tasks are completed on time. I also communicate frequently with my team and supervisor to coordinate and prioritize tasks.

Question: How do you ensure that your work meets the highest standards of safety and reliability?

Answer: I ensure that my work meets the highest standards of safety and reliability by following all established procedures and guidelines, and by adhering to strict quality control standards. I also stay up-to-date with the latest industry regulations and standards, and I make sure to document all of my work thoroughly, to ensure transparency and accountability.