How would you describe yourself? Are you a perfectionist or a procrastinator? If you answered yes to either question, then you might want to consider becoming an airplane mechanic.
Airplane mechanics are responsible for maintaining aircraft engines and other systems. They also perform regular inspections and maintenance checks on planes before they take off, and are crucial elements of any team or flight.
Skills For Aircraft Mechanics
The skills required to become an airline mechanic vary depending on the type of plane you work with. However, there are some basic requirements that all airplane mechanics need to have in order to do their jobs effectively.
Technical Prowess
First, they must be able to read, understand, and interpret technical manuals. This includes reading schematics, diagrams, and instructions. It is important that these materials are clear and easy to follow so that the mechanic can complete his job properly.
Basic math skills are also important – you need to be able to do simple calculations such as figuring out the weight of an item.
Good Communication
Second, they need to be able to communicate well with others, including the ability to explain what they are doing and why it is necessary to passengers and crew members.
You will also need to communicate with your supervisor, co-workers, customers, and other aircraft technicians in order to complete your duties successfully.
Good Mechanical Skills
Finally, they must be knowledgeable about the various components of an engine, including understanding how each part works and how it affects performance.
In addition, mechanics will need to be familiar with the different types of fuel used by airplanes and have good mechanical aptitude, including the ability to understand how things work and repair them if they break down.
Good Attention To Detail
Your job will require you to pay close attention to small details that may not seem important at first glance.
A Strong Work Ethic
You should always put forth your best effort when working on projects.
There are many different types of jobs available for airplane mechanics. Some positions involve inspecting airplanes while they are still being built, while others focus on repairing existing planes.
What Is A Typical Day Like As An Aircraft Mechanic?
As an airline mechanic, you will spend most of your day working inside a hangar. However, there will be times when you will be outside doing repairs.
Most airline mechanics work Monday through Friday. Some may even work Saturday or Sunday.
Your job duties will depend on what type of airplane you are repairing. You might be responsible for fixing engines, landing gear, propellers, or other parts.
Your tasks will also change based on the season. In the winter months, you will probably be more involved with engine repair. During the summer months, you will likely be more focused on airframe inspections.
It is important to note that airline mechanics are often required to perform multiple types of tasks during their shifts.
Aircraft Mechanic Work Environment
Work environment for aviation mechanics varies from company to company (see also “How Much Do Aviation Mechanics Make?“). Most companies offer benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.
However, most mechanics work long hours, which means that they often miss family events and spend less time with loved ones than people who work in more traditional industries.
In addition, aviation mechanics are exposed to dangerous situations every day. Planes can crash during takeoff or landing, and mechanics may be called upon to help passengers get off the plane safely after a crash.
As a result, airplane mechanics face high levels of stress. If you want to avoid this situation, consider becoming an airplane mechanic instead of continuing your education.
Aspiring airplane mechanics should start looking into the different opportunities available today. Many airlines now hire mechanics directly, but you might also find employment through local schools or aviation organizations.
Types Of Aviation Mechanics
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
An aircraft maintenance technician performs routine maintenance tasks on planes and helicopters. These jobs require technical expertise, so applicants must have good math and science skills.
The average salary for an aircraft maintenance technician ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 per year.
Aviation Engine Repair Technician
An aviation engine repair technician works on the engines used on airplanes and helicopters. They must have excellent mechanical ability and knowledge of how engines function.
The average salary for an aviation engine repair technician ranges from $30,000 to $35,000 per year. However, salaries can vary greatly based on location and the size of the company.
Airframe & Powerplant Technician
Airframe and powerplant mechanics does much more than just maintain the plane’s exterior. He or she also inspects the plane’s interior parts, such as wiring, plumbing, and electrical systems.
These technicians must be able to read blueprints and understand complex diagrams. They must also be skilled in using tools like wrenches and drills.
The average salary range for an airframe and powerplant tech is $45,000 to $55,000 per year. Salaries can vary widely depending on where the employee lives and whether he or she has additional certifications.
Flight Line Tech
A flight line tech works directly with pilots and navigators. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the pilot’s plane is ready to take off.
This includes inspecting the plane’s instruments and making sure that everything is functioning properly. Flight line techs may also help prepare the plane for takeoff.
The average salary of a flight line tech ranges from $25,000 to $35 000 per year.
Maintenance Manager
A maintenance manager oversees all aspects of an airline’s maintenance department. This means that he or she will oversee the daily activities of his or her team members.
He or she will also handle scheduling issues, budgeting, and personnel management. The main responsibilities of a maintenance manager include ensuring that the team meets its goals.
The average salary is around $80,000 per year. It depends on the size of the company and the number of people employed by it.
How To Become An Aircraft Mechanic
There are a number of steps you will need to take if you wish to become an aviation mechanic and prerequisites that you will need to meet in order to qualify. These include:
High School Diploma Or GED
You will need to complete high school before applying for any type of airplane mechanic position. You should know this because many companies will ask for proof of graduation.
Aviation Qualifications
You will also need to pass an exam called the General Aviation Maintenance Knowledge Test (GAMT). This test covers topics related to aircraft mechanics.
Find a school that offers training programs. There are several options available, including online courses, correspondence courses, and classroom instruction.
Once accepted, you will need to complete the coursework – the length of the program varies depending on the type of training offered. Courses typically last between six months and two years.
Once you have completed all of the necessary coursework, you will need to pass a certification exam. This is usually administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
After passing the FAA’s licensing exams, you will receive a license that allows you to perform maintenance work on commercial airliners.
Commercial Driver’s License
Some employers may also require you to obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL) if you want to work at a large airport.
If you do not already have a CDL, you can get one through the FAA.
Medical Tests
Some airlines will also require you to hold a current medical certificate. If you don’t have one, you can apply for a temporary medical certificate.
You will also have to pass drug tests and background checks. These are common requirements for most jobs.
Apply For Jobs
Now that you have passed the tests and received your license, it’s time to start searching for a job as an aircraft mechanic.
Choose A Specialty
As mentioned above, there are many different types of aviation mechanics. For example, some specialize in engine overhaul, while others focus on inspection and repair.
Build Your Experience
In order to build up the experience needed to land a position as an aircraft mechanic, you should seek out any opportunity that comes along. You should not wait until you have finished college before starting to look for work – practical experience counts for a lot.
Network
When you first begin looking for a job, you should make sure to network with other aviation mechanics. Ask them about their experiences working as an aircraft mechanic, and learn what skills they think employers value most.
Here, you can also make the most of practical experience within the aviation industry from real-life aviation mechanics, and this can be extremely useful.
Final Thoughts
Training and working as an aviation mechanic can be a great way to experience a fun, exciting career that allows you to use your skills in a number of situations.
As long as you are prepared to work hard and study to ace the practical exams, as well as gain as much practical experience as you can, there is no reason why you should not be able to achieve your goals – your future is within your reach!
I decided to create this source of knowledge from my own experiences, in the hopes of helping budding pilots to get through their training.
So, if you’re thinking about becoming a pilot or are in the middle of your training, I hope that this website and my knowledge comes of some benefit to you. I’d love to think that my website made your experience a little less stressful and a lot more fun!
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