An Aircraft Mechanic is a professional who plays a critical role in ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of aircraft. They possess the expertise to inspect, repair, and maintain various aircraft systems and components. In this blog post, we will delve into the primary responsibilities and the most in-demand hard and soft skills that Aircraft Mechanics need to excel in their field.

Get market insights and compare skills for other jobs here.

Main Responsibilities of an Aircraft Mechanic

The following list describes the typical responsibilities of an Aircraft Mechanic:

Advise

Advise the Site Supervisor promptly of unresolved or developing problem areas.

Approve

Approve and return aircraft to service after maintenance / repairs.

Assemble

Assemble, disassemble and / or modify systems.

Assist

• Assist in marketing and developing aircraft maintenance business.

• Assist in the training and supervision of apprentice aircraft mechanics.

• Assist other maintenance disciplines.

• Assist with engine removal / installation.

• Assist with fuel and / or de-fuel of aircraft.

• Assist with off-aircraft component repair.

Carry out

Carry out correct diagnosis of operating defects.

Collaborate with

• Collaborate with other mechanics and technicians to complete complex repairs or inspections.

• Collaborate with pilots and flight crew to address any reported aircraft issues.

Communicate

Communicate with pilots and vendors for the purpose of exchanging technical information.

Comply

Comply with safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

Compute

Compute basic weight and balance records.

Conduct

• Conduct diagnosis of malfunctions.

• Conduct functional tests of repaired components and systems.

• Conduct operational tests and performance evaluations on aircraft systems.

• Conduct thorough inspections after aircraft maintenance or repairs to ensure airworthiness.

Configure

Configure aircraft and bench test equipment.

Coordinate

Coordinate with aircraft manufacturers and suppliers to source necessary parts and equipment.

Correct

• Correct defects under supervision of Certifying Staff / Support Staff.

• Correct failures and implement changes.

Deploy

Deploy the overseas locations to support operations requirements.

Diagnose

Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues.

Document

Document procedures and establishes processes to ensure contractual and regulatory compliance.

Ensure

• Ensure compliance with quality and safety procedures / operations at the site level.

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a safe working environment.

• Ensure that maintenance and repairs meet the Company standards.

• Ensure that maintenance and repairs meet Transport Canada standards.

• Ensure timely submission of required reports and documents to Program Management and the Government.

Follow

Follow technical manuals, diagrams, and blueprints to carry out maintenance and repair procedures.

Identify

Identify defective aircraft components with the Material Return Form.

Inspect

• Inspect aircraft systems, components, and structures for signs of damage or wear.

• Inspect all aircraft assigned.

• Inspect all required aeronautical type maintenance to be performed by Aircraft Mechanic I & II.

• Inspect and certify aircraft at specific intervals as required by ESA, Government, and the FAA.

• Inspect, diagnose and assess the feasibility of maintenance and repair issues.

• Inspect components and verifies repairs for flight-worthiness.

Install

• Install and calibrate aircraft instruments and avionic systems.

• Install and repair mechanical components.

Interpret

Interpret / advises on maintenance procedures / policies to repair aircraft, parts and equipment.

Know

Know and understand the functions and requirements of computerized maintenance software.

Maintain

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, including repairs performed and parts used.

• Maintain a clean and organized work place.

• Maintain appropriate inventory levels of parts, tools and service equipment.

• Maintain current service manuals, service bulletins, A / D lists, wiring diagrams, etc..

• Maintain FAA required records, manuals and inspection forms.

• Maintain FBO ground support equipment.

• Maintain logbooks and other records to provide required documentation of work.

• Maintain necessary certifications, licenses and permits as required for assigned work.

• Maintain, rebuilds and / or overhauls aircraft components according to technical data.

Make

Make changes according to newsletters while meeting industry standards.

Monitor

Monitor and maintain the cleanliness and organization of the aircraft maintenance facility.

Obtain

• Obtain all support equipment licenses for job description.

• Obtain / maintain secret security clearance.

Operate

Operate ground support equipment.

Participate

• Participate in 5-S activities.

• Participate in engine testing and APU (auxiliary power unit).

• Participate in FOD program.

Perform

• Perform aircraft recovery missions as necessary.

• Perform all other position related duties as assigned or requested.

• Perform all work in a safe and timely manner.

• Perform and documents all work performed per appropriate manuals and regulations as required.

• Perform and document work performed per appropriate manuals and regulations as required.

• Perform Collateral Duties and Responsibilities, as assigned by the site Lead / Supervision.

• Perform duties as outlined in the purpose of this position.

• Perform end-of-runway, post-flight, preflight, thru-flight, and phase inspections.

• Perform engine run or taxi operations.

• Perform fueling and defueling operations according to established procedures.

• Perform functional tests and adjustments on aircraft systems.

• Perform mechanical / electrical removals and installations.

• Perform other qualified duties as assigned.

• Perform regular inspections and maintenance on aircraft safety equipment, such as emergency exits and inflatable slides.

• Perform scheduled inspections and assists in performing special inspections.

• Perform scheduled maintenance tasks, including engine checks, lubrication, and fluid replenishment.

• Perform / supervises repair & reclamation and maintenance support functions.

• Perform validation / verification testing of systems and components.

Plan

Plan, conduct, and supervise aircraft technical inspections.

Prepare

• Prepare aircraft for flight ('refueling', daily inspection).

• Prepare estimates for maintenance / repairs.

Prioritize

Prioritize workloads and is required to lead teams through more complex aircraft relevant tasks.

Pull

Pull, push, lift up to 50 lbs..

Read

Read and interpret technical drawings and drawings.

Receive

• Receive aircraft maintenance and repair requests.

• Receive technical assistance, as required, from higher-level technician.

Remove

Remove, installs and operationally checks aircraft components.

Repair

• Repair or replace faulty aircraft parts and components.

• Repair, inspect and perform maintenance on customer aircraft.

Report

Report maintenance errors.

Respond to

Respond to aircraft emergencies and perform necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure safety.

Schedule

Schedule and perform maintenance / repairs and conduct / observe tests and system checks.

Stand

Stand, squat, sit, walk, work with arms overhead for extended periods of time.

Stay updated with

Stay updated with the latest industry regulations, maintenance practices, and technological advancements.

Supervise

Supervise and perform aircraft jacking, lifting, and towing operations.

Test

Test aircraft systems, such as engines, landing gear, and electrical systems, to verify proper functioning.

Train

Train, coach and support other employees.

Troubleshoot

• Troubleshoot and maintain aircraft structures, systems, components, and related equipment.

• Troubleshoot complex pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical systems.

• Troubleshoot, repair, install, inspect and perform maintenance on customer aircraft.

Use

• Use and perform operator maintenance on tools, special tools and aircraft ground support equipment.

• Use of tooling assemblies and fixtures for depot level modification and repair of structural parts.

• Use technical data to diagnose and solve maintenance problems on aircraft systems.

Work with

• Work with Operations Manager / Customer Service Reps on billing and collections.

• Work with Operations Manager to establish appropriate pricing for maintenance / repairs.

Most In-demand Hard Skills

The following list describes the most required technical skills of an Aircraft Mechanic:

1. Proficiency in aircraft systems and components, including engines, hydraulics, avionics, and electrical systems.

2. Comprehensive knowledge of aircraft maintenance procedures and practices.

3. Familiarity with aircraft manuals, technical publications, and maintenance documentation.

4. Ability to interpret and understand technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics.

5. Competence in using specialized tools and equipment for aircraft maintenance and repairs.

6. Expertise in troubleshooting and diagnosing complex mechanical and electrical issues.

7. Proficiency in using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) for documentation and tracking.

8. Knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and guidelines.

9. Ability to perform precision measurements and adjustments.

10. Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods for aircraft inspections.

11. Competence in welding and fabrication techniques.

12. Expertise in aircraft structural repairs and modifications.

13. Understanding of aircraft engine performance analysis and testing.

14. Proficiency in operating engine test equipment and diagnostic tools.

15. Knowledge of aircraft fuel systems and fuel quality control measures.

16. Proficiency in aircraft communication and navigation systems, including radios, transponders, and GPS.

17. Understanding of aircraft pressurization and environmental control systems.

18. Competence in performing aircraft weight and balance calculations.

19. Knowledge of aircraft emergency procedures and evacuation systems.

Most In-demand Soft Skills

The following list describes the most required soft skills of an Aircraft Mechanic:

1. Attention to detail: Aircraft Mechanics must possess a keen eye for detail to accurately diagnose and address mechanical issues.

2. Strong problem-solving skills: They should have the ability to analyze complex problems and develop effective solutions.

3. Excellent technical aptitude: Aircraft Mechanics should demonstrate a strong understanding of mechanical and electrical principles.

4. Effective communication: They need to communicate clearly and concisely with team members, engineers, and other stakeholders.

5. Collaboration: Working well in a team environment is crucial to coordinate tasks and ensure efficient maintenance operations.

6. Time management: Aircraft Mechanics must prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage their time effectively.

7. Adaptability: The aviation industry is dynamic, and being adaptable to changes and new technologies is essential.

8. Stress management: Aircraft Mechanics should be able to work under pressure and maintain composure during critical situations.

9. Continuous learning: Staying updated with industry advancements and regulations is vital to enhance skills and knowledge.

10. Commitment to safety: A strong commitment to safety practices and protocols is essential to maintain a secure aviation environment.

Conclusion

An Aircraft Mechanic holds significant responsibilities in ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of aircraft. They possess a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and soft skills necessary to excel in their role. By continuously developing their technical knowledge and honing their soft skills, Aircraft Mechanics play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and reliability of aircraft systems.