Aircraft Structural Mechanic Jobs - "Aviation is getting bigger and bigger and technology is getting better," said Brian Finnegan, president of the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association. While major U.S. airlines are struggling, general aviation companies and smaller aircraft and aircraft manufacturers are looking for new talent to work as aircraft mechanics in an era of existing workers.

"We're seeing a lot of opportunities — they're coming back in droves," he said. With developments like giant airplanes and drones on the horizon, the industry is becoming more complex and requires mechanics that can keep up with ever-changing technology.

Aircraft Structural Mechanic Jobs

Aircraft Structural Mechanic Jobs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 154,000 aircraft mechanics are currently employed in the United States, and the BLS divides the occupation into four categories:

Aircraft Structural Maintenance Hi Res Stock Photography And Images

Look for an established school that requires at least 1,900 hours and has a record of 70 percent or better, says Don Newton, director of the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA). Newton recommends pursuing schools with higher-than-average hourly requirements. "You want to go above and beyond the basics," he said. "See what kind of training they offer."

These schools offer students to master the basics of the classroom, such as understanding electrical laws and reading blueprints, and doing lab work. "A good school will incorporate new technology beyond FAA requirements," Newton said.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to enroll in flight school, but no previous experience is required. "I've seen some kids with no mechanical experience do really well," said Brian Tobias, an FAA-designated mechanical examiner.

"If you want to become an airplane mechanic, you can't just walk the streets," Tobias said. Therefore, after completing the course, you must take a certificate test. Although testing is not a mandatory job requirement, employers prefer it. "Mechanical certificate holders are not restricted in terms of working on specific types of aircraft or on specific maintenance tasks," he said. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires 18 months of service for an aircraft repair, power plant, or avionics certificate and 30 months for an aircraft/powerplant certificate.

Aircraft Mechanic: Training, Skills, Salary

Completion of a program at an FAA certified mechanic school can substitute for work experience. Attending one of the 200 mechanical schools in the United States is the most common way to enter the industry; However, veterans who demonstrate good work experience may test for certification, as may those with good practical experience but no training.

The test consists of a series of computer-based exams followed by a day with a certified examiner. Candidates work on a series of hands-on projects covering 44 topics that range from small passenger aircraft to Boeing jets.

Once you get your license, where you work depends on your interests. "You have major airlines, commuter airlines, engine manufacturers or fixed line operators in every part of the country and the world," Newton said. You can work in airport maintenance where you take care of an airplane at the gate, or you can work on a helicopter, as part of a large aircraft crew or in a shop. where you build a small plane. "Right now, I'm seeing smaller carriers hiring new people for $14 to $15 an hour," Tobias said.

Aircraft Structural Mechanic Jobs

No matter where you go, don't expect to work 9 to 5. "It's often outside and at night," says Finnegan. "A mechanic is an athlete who climbs stairs and works in small spaces. You have to be fit."

Why Aviation Mechanic Jobs Are Ideal For Ex Military

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Aircraft Maintenance Technician

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