Dreambound
Blog

Where Can an Aviation Mechanic Work?

Aviation Mechanic

Want personalized recommendations?

Let's match you to the right program

Talk to Skipper
coach

Are you interested in a career as an aviation mechanic? If so, you may be wondering where you can work once you complete your training. Aviation mechanics are in demand in various industries, ranging from commercial airlines to private aircraft owners. In this blog post, we will explore the different work environments that aviation mechanics can find employment in and provide some insight into the industry profile for this profession. We will also discuss some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a work environment as an aviation mechanic.

Article continues after recommendations

Recommended for you

What does an Aviation Mechanic do?

Before we dive into the different work environments for aviation mechanics, let's take a closer look at what these professionals do on a daily basis. Some of the key responsibilities of an aviation mechanic include:

  • Conducting routine inspections of aircraft to identify any potential issues or areas of concern.
  • Repairing or replacing faulty components and systems to ensure the aircraft is in proper working order.
  • Performing scheduled maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire inspections.
  • Troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical and electrical problems to determine the root cause.
  • Keeping detailed records of all maintenance and repairs performed on the aircraft.
  • Following all safety procedures and regulations to ensure the safety of both themselves and others.

Where does an Aviation Mechanic usually work?

Aviation mechanics can find employment in a variety of work environments, including:

  1. Commercial Airlines: Many aviation mechanics work for commercial airlines, where they are responsible for maintaining the fleet of aircraft. They may work in hangars or maintenance facilities, performing routine inspections and repairs on a regular basis. Commercial airlines often have their own maintenance departments staffed with aviation mechanics.

  2. General Aviation: General aviation refers to all types of aviation activity that are not considered commercial or military. This includes private aircraft owners, flight schools, and small charter companies. Aviation mechanics working in general aviation may work on a wide range of aircraft, from small single-engine planes to larger corporate jets.

  3. Government Agencies: Aviation mechanics may also find employment with government agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the military. These mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft used for government purposes, such as surveillance or transportation.

  4. Aircraft Manufacturers: Some aviation mechanics work directly for aircraft manufacturers. They may be involved in the assembly process, ensuring that the aircraft are built to the highest standards. Others may work in research and development, testing new technologies and systems.

  5. Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Facilities: MRO facilities specialize in providing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for aircraft. These facilities may work with a variety of clients, including commercial airlines, private aircraft owners, and government agencies. Aviation mechanics working in MRO facilities may have the opportunity to work on a wide range of aircraft types and models.

Industry profile for Aviation Mechanic

The aviation industry is a dynamic and rapidly growing field, with a high demand for skilled aviation mechanics. Here are some key points about the industry profile for aviation mechanics:

  • Job Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of aircraft mechanics and service technicians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is mainly driven by the need to maintain and repair aging aircraft fleets.

  • Salary: The median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 in May 2020. The highest 10 percent earned more than $98,480, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,460.

  • Education and Training: To become an aviation mechanic, you typically need to complete a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved aviation maintenance technician program. These programs can be found at aviation maintenance schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

  • Certification: After completing an approved program, aviation mechanics must obtain the appropriate certification from the FAA. This usually involves passing a series of written, oral, and practical exams.

Considerations for choosing a work environment

When choosing a work environment as an aviation mechanic, there are several factors to consider. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Type of Aircraft: Different work environments may specialize in certain types of aircraft. If you have a preference for a specific type of aircraft, such as commercial airliners or helicopters, you may want to choose a work environment that aligns with your interests.

  2. Career Advancement Opportunities: Some work environments may offer more opportunities for career advancement than others. For example, working for a large commercial airline may provide more chances for promotions and specialization.

  3. Work Schedule: The aviation industry operates around the clock, and aviation mechanics may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Consider the work schedule of different work environments and determine if it aligns with your lifestyle and personal preferences.

  4. Location: The location of the work environment is also an important factor to consider. If you are willing to relocate, you may have more options available to you. However, if you prefer to stay in a specific area, you may need to research the local job market to see what opportunities are available.

Where Can an Aviation Mechanic Work?

Are you interested in a career as an aviation mechanic? If so, you may be wondering where you can work once you complete your training. Aviation mechanics are in demand in various industries, ranging from commercial airlines to private aircraft owners. In this blog post, we will explore the different work environments that aviation mechanics can find employment in and provide some insight into the industry profile for this profession. We will also discuss some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a work environment as an aviation mechanic.

What does an Aviation Mechanic do?

Before we dive into the different work environments for aviation mechanics, let's take a closer look at what these professionals do on a daily basis. Some of the key responsibilities of an aviation mechanic include:

  • Conducting routine inspections of aircraft to identify any potential issues or areas of concern.
  • Repairing or replacing faulty components and systems to ensure the aircraft is in proper working order.
  • Performing scheduled maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire inspections.
  • Troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical and electrical problems to determine the root cause.
  • Keeping detailed records of all maintenance and repairs performed on the aircraft.
  • Following all safety procedures and regulations to ensure the safety of both themselves and others.

Get courses selected just for you

Try our powerful search engine

Try it now

Article continues after recommendations

Where does an Aviation Mechanic usually work?

Aviation mechanics can find employment in a variety of work environments, including:

  1. Commercial Airlines: Many aviation mechanics work for commercial airlines, where they are responsible for maintaining the fleet of aircraft. They may work in hangars or maintenance facilities, performing routine inspections and repairs on a regular basis. Commercial airlines often have their own maintenance departments staffed with aviation mechanics.

  2. General Aviation: General aviation refers to all types of aviation activity that are not considered commercial or military. This includes private aircraft owners, flight schools, and small charter companies. Aviation mechanics working in general aviation may work on a wide range of aircraft, from small single-engine planes to larger corporate jets.

  3. Government Agencies: Aviation mechanics may also find employment with government agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the military. These mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft used for government purposes, such as surveillance or transportation.

  4. Aircraft Manufacturers: Some aviation mechanics work directly for aircraft manufacturers. They may be involved in the assembly process, ensuring that the aircraft are built to the highest standards. Others may work in research and development, testing new technologies and systems.

  5. Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Facilities: MRO facilities specialize in providing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for aircraft. These facilities may work with a variety of clients, including commercial airlines, private aircraft owners, and government agencies. Aviation mechanics working in MRO facilities may have the opportunity to work on a wide range of aircraft types and models.

Industry profile for Aviation Mechanic

The aviation industry is a dynamic and rapidly growing field, with a high demand for skilled aviation mechanics. Here are some key points about the industry profile for aviation mechanics:

  • Job Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of aircraft mechanics and service technicians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is mainly driven by the need to maintain and repair aging aircraft fleets.

  • Salary: The median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 in May 2020. The highest 10 percent earned more than $98,480, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,460.

  • Education and Training: To become an aviation mechanic, you typically need to complete a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved aviation maintenance technician program. These programs can be found at aviation maintenance schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

  • Certification: After completing an approved program, aviation mechanics must obtain the appropriate certification from the FAA. This usually involves passing a series of written, oral, and practical exams.

Considerations for choosing a work environment

When choosing a work environment as an aviation mechanic, there are several factors to consider. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Type of Aircraft: Different work environments may specialize in certain types of aircraft. If you have a preference for a specific type of aircraft, such as commercial airliners or helicopters, you may want to choose a work environment that aligns with your interests.

  2. Career Advancement Opportunities: Some work environments may offer more opportunities for career advancement than others. For example, working for a large commercial airline may provide more chances for promotions and specialization.

  3. Work Schedule: The aviation industry operates around the clock, and aviation mechanics may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Consider the work schedule of different work environments and determine if it aligns with your lifestyle and personal preferences.

  4. Location: The location of the work environment is also an important factor to consider. If you are willing to relocate, you may have more options available to you. However, if you prefer to stay in a specific area, you may need to research the local job market to see what opportunities are available.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an aviation mechanic can open up a world of opportunities in the aviation industry. Whether you choose to work for a commercial airline, a government agency, or an MRO facility, there are plenty of options to explore. When choosing a work environment, consider your interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Remember, finding the perfect work environment as an aviation mechanic is just a few clicks away with Dreambound. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find vocational training programs, such as allied health or industrial trades. Their mission is to provide all the information students need to find the perfect class. Explore your options and start your journey towards a rewarding career as an aviation mechanic today!

Thinking about a potential career transition? Dreambound has detailed guides to help you with making informed decisions.

Stephanie Dayak
Written by
Stephanie Dayak

Stephanie Dayak is the go-to person for everything related to automation and integrations at Dreambound. As a Certified Tax Technician turned tech whiz, her sharp eye for detail and passion for efficiency become evident in every project she undertakes. When not solving tech puzzles, she's out exploring the local food scene, cozying up with her dogs, or plugged into a thought-provoking podcast. She's an ardent believer in mixing fun with functionality!

Share this post: