Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

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

What you'd actually do

• 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.
• 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.
• Modify aircraft structures, space vehicles, systems, or components, following drawings, schematics, charts, engineering orders, and technical publications.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Post-secondary certificate. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).

The feel of the work

Much of the work happens outdoors; much of the day is spent working solo; time pressure is a real part of the job; precision matters — small details carry weight. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 0% of aircraft mechanics and service technicians are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are hands-on, organized and detail-focused and analytical.

Related careers

• First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
• Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
• Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers
• Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
• Millwrights
• Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines

Quick questions

How much does a aircraft mechanics and service technician make?

The median pay is $38.40 per hour — roughly $80,000 a year, with the real range running from about $23.45/hr (10th percentile) to $61.97/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a aircraft mechanics and service technician?

The typical entry-level education is: Post-secondary certificate. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).

What does a aircraft mechanics and service technician actually do all day?

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. Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.