Job Description
An Aviation Engine Mechanic repairs or replaces worn, defective, or damaged aircraft engine parts. They also test engine components and systems to ensure they are functioning correctly and use testing equipment to diagnose and identify engine problems. In addition, an Aviation Engine Mechanic is responsible for disassembling and inspecting engine parts like turbine blades and cylinders, for wear, warping, cracks, and leaks. The Aviation Engine Mechanic is in charge of making sure aircraft airframes and engines are maintained within Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards.
Aviation Engine Mechanics usually work in hangars, repair stations, and airfields. They should be highly detail-oriented, thorough, and organized. Also, an Aviation Engine Mechanic should have the ability to understand complex engine specifications and equipment and strong mechanical skills.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Inspect aircraft engine components for wear, warping, cracks, and leaks
- Analyze and understand aircraft blueprints, specifications, and maintenance manuals to troubleshoot engine issues
- Conduct routine, scheduled aircraft engine maintenance, and inspections
- Ensure all repairs and engine functions are up to FAA specifications
- Order supplies, equipment, materials, and parts for repairs and general maintenance
- Keep detailed records of inspections, maintenance, repairs, and parts inventory
Education and Background
This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent or an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Some companies may require Aviation Engine Mechanic candidates to have an associate degree.
Skills and Competencies
- Analytical, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
- Teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to understand wiring diagrams and schematics
- Strong hand-eye coordination and proficiency in using tools
- Sufficient physical strength and dexterity to climb on aircraft and manipulate engine parts
- High-level organization skills
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of an Aviation Engine Mechanic with
1 Year of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $37,000
- Tampa, Florida: $39,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $41,000
- Miami, Florida: $48,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $53,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $55,000
- Houston, Texas: $50,000
- Los Angeles, California: $56,000
- New York City, New York: $52,000
- Seattle, Washington: $41,000
- Overall: $48,000
5 Years of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $48,000
- Tampa, Florida: $50,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $47,000
- Miami, Florida: $54,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $58,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $64,000
- Houston, Texas: $61,000
- Los Angeles, California: $61,000
- New York City, New York: $63,000
- Seattle, Washington: $59,000
- Overall: $58,000
Similar Job Titles
- Aviation Mechanic
- Aircraft Mechanic
- Aircraft Engine Specialist
- A&P Mechanic
- Jet Engine Mechanic
- Aircraft Engine Mechanic
- Engine Cylinder Mechanic
- Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Career Path
This position requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Some companies may require Aviation Engine Mechanic candidates to have an associate degree. Successful Aviation Engine Mechanics can advance into leadership roles such as Lead Mechanic, Lead Inspector, or Shop Supervisor.
Position Trends
According to a 2020 article on Yahoo! Money, one current trend in the aviation industry is a demand for turbofan engines. They currently hold a significant share of the aircraft engines market, and that trend should continue over the next five years as orders for new commercial aircraft increase. Aviation Engine Mechanics who are experts in these types of engines will likely be more marketable to employers than those with less experience maintaining them.
Another trend affecting Aviation Engine Mechanics is the growth of the Asia-Pacific market. China’s commercial aircraft fleet should become larger than the United States’ fleet by 2024. That will likely mean a higher demand for Aviation Engine Mechanics in China and other Asian markets in the next few years.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians field should grow by three percent between 2018 and 2028. That’s slower than average.
Typical Hours
Aviation Engine Mechanics usually work rotating eight-hour shifts. That means overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts are common in this field.
Where You Can Find Jobs
- 4 Corner Resources
- Career Builder
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Monster
- Aviation Job Search
- Aerospace Crossing
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