Job Description
Aviation Service Technicians perform scheduled maintenance and repair work on aircraft machinery, ensuring aircraft airframes and engines are maintained within Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards. They usually work in hangars, repair stations, and airfields. Aviation Service Technicians should be highly detail-oriented, thorough, and organized. They also should have the ability to understand complex engine specifications and equipment and have strong mechanical skills.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Repair and install different aircraft components
- Examine aircraft to identify maintenance and repair issues
- Read and comprehend aircraft manuals to understand aircraft components
- Inspect completed work and ensure it matches standards
- Interpret and analyze data to identify performance issues
- Maintain accurate record of repairs
- Install software, hardware, and other components
Education and Background
This position may require an associate degree or an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Aviation systems and controls have also become more computerized and will require the appropriate background to operate.
Skills and Competencies
- Physical stamina and strength
- Manual dexterity
- Keen attention to detail
- Knowledge of aviation technology and machinery
- Ability to comprehend complex documents, blueprints, sketches, and manuals
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of an Aircraft Service Technician 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 Titles
- Aviation/Aircraft Mechanic
- Avionics Equipment Mechanic
- Aviation/Aircraft Technician
Career Path
This position may require an associate degree or an Airframe and Powerplant License certificate from a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Aircraft Service Technicians may have the opportunity to advance to positions such as Lead Mechanic, Lead Inspector, and Shop Supervisor.
Position Trends
Air travel should significantly advance and expand in the coming years resulting in the demand for Service Technicians to maintain and repair machinery. The Aviation Technician Education Council offers professional knowledge and skill development opportunities such as certifications, programs, and webinars.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the Aircraft Service Technician field should grow three percent from 2016 to 2026. This growth rate is slower than average for all occupations.
Typical Hours
Aircraft Service Technicians typically work during regular business hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., in repair stations, shops, or airfields, usually near airports. Overtime and weekend work is common.
Where You Can Find Jobs
- 4 Corner Resources
- Career Builder
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Monster
- Zip Recruiter
- The Balance Careers
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