Aircraft Mechanics
| Description |
OES Code: 85323 |
Repair and maintain the operating condition of aircraft assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems, landing gear, propeller assemblies, fuel tanks, and airframe assemblies. Inspect, test, modify, and install equipment according to specifications, using tools such as power shears, acetylene welding equipment, rivet guns, and air or electric drills. Include Helicopter Repairers. Exclude Aircraft Engine Specialists and Aircraft Electricians.
Wages, Hourly
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$14.66 |
| 25th Percentile |
$12.86 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) |
$16.78 |
| 75th Percentile |
$20.14 |
Wages by California County
Hours & Benefits
The normal workweek for Aircraft Mechanics is 40 hours, with occasional overtime for scheduled airlines during the peak summer season. Paid holidays and paid vacations, health and life insurance plans, sick leave, profit-sharing, and retirement pensions are offered in varying degrees by both the airlines and independent aircraft repair companies. Airlines also extend flight benefits in the form of free or reduced air transportation to employees and their families.
Employment Trends
| Employment 1998 |
14,800 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
17,800 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
20.3% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
3,300 |
Employment Trends by California County
The outlook for aircraft mechanics should be favorable over the next 10 years. The small numbers of young workers in the labor force, coupled with few entrants from the military, and a large number of retirements point to good employment conditions for students just beginning training.
Advancement
As Aircraft Mechanics gain experience, they can advance to lead mechanic, crew chief, or shop supervisor. In the airlines, mechanics can become inspectors and advance further to head inspector. Some transfer to larger airlines. With additional business training, others may establish their own repair shops.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Aircraft Mechanics usually contact employers directly either in person or by resume. Firms that hire in this occupation include commercial airlines, aircraft and parts manufacturers, aircraft service and maintenance companies, and large businesses with their own fleets of planes. Some Aircraft Mechanics work for the Federal government as civilian employees at large military bases. School placement offices, newspaper classified ads, and professional publications are sources for job openings. The field offices of the California Employment Development Department Job Service list openings and provide information on local employment conditions. Private employment agencies may also place Aircraft Mechanics.
For a list of current job listing, browse Caljobs or America's Job Bank. |
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Education and Training
Most airlines and general aviation firms require an A&P certificate from the FAA. Aircraft Mechanics who are not yet certified work under the supervision of a certified mechanic who must sign approval of the work before the aircraft or its equipment is considered airworthy. Applicants for the A&P certificate must meet knowledge, skill and experience requirements for repairing, servicing and inspecting specific parts of the aircraft. Aircraft Mechanics usually learn the work by attending a school certified by the FAA for 14 to 24 months. A student should possess a mechanical aptitude with a thorough knowledge of basic math. To be eligible for the FAA certificate examinations, a candidate must have 18 months experience in either airframe or power plant work, or a combination of 30 months in both. Related military service may be used to meet certification requirements. A list of certified aviation maintenance technicians schools (Advisory Circular 147-2T) may be obtained from:
Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, Distribution Unit, M-443.2, 400 7th Street SW, Washington, DC 20590.
Skills & Other Requirements
Aircraft mechanics must do careful and thorough work that requires a high degree of mechanical aptitude. Employers seek applicants who are self-motivated, hard-working, enthusiastic, and able to diagnose and solve complex mechanical problems. Agility is important for the reaching and climbing necessary for the job. Because they may work on the top of wings and fuselages on large jet planes, aircraft mechanics must not be afraid of heights.
References
California Occupational Guide #339
Related Occupations: Automobile Mechanics, #24, Bus/Truck/Diesel Engine Mechanics, #251
Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)
© 2000 California Occupation Information Coordinating Committee |
