Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

What the job really is

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

At a glance

• Sector: Installation, Maintenance & Repair
• O*NET-SOC code: 49-3011
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
• Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
• Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
• Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.
• Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.
• Replace or repair worn, defective, or damaged components, using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.
• Inspect airframes for wear or other defects.
• Check for corrosion, distortion, and invisible cracks in the fuselage, wings, and tail, using x-ray and magnetic inspection equipment.
• Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments.
• Remove or install aircraft engines, using hoists or forklift trucks.
• Service and maintain aircraft and related apparatus by performing activities such as flushing crankcases, cleaning screens, and or moving parts.
• Test operation of engines and other systems, using test equipment, such as ignition analyzers, compression checkers, distributor timers, or ammeters.

Tools and technology

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, SAP software, Access Software AIRPAX, Acetylene welding equipment, Adjustable wrenches, Air compressors, Air drills

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Avionics Technicians
• Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
• Aircraft Service Attendants
• Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
• Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
• Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
• Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
• Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.