Aircraft Mechanics are primarily responsible for keeping aircrafts in good operating condition. They must possess a comprehensive knowledge of the different parts and components of an aircraft and how the entire system works. They are responsible for the troubleshooting and repair of mechanical and electrical problems of aircrafts. They perform routine maintenance work, overhaul and modification of fixed and rotary wing aircraft systems and airframes They are required to thoroughly inspect components such as the landing gear, brakes, and electrical systems, as well as pay attention to even the smallest parts of an aircraft.

Aircraft Mechanics are responsible for operating a variety of diagnostic equipment to troubleshoot an aircraft. They also need to determine the appropriate tools and techniques for performing repair and maintenance work. They test the working condition of the different parts and components of an aircraft with the use of circuit testers, oscilloscopes and voltmeters. Technical knowledge of both the components of aircrafts and the tools and equipment used to examine, repair and maintain them is imperative for professionals in this occupation.

Aircraft Mechanics are often servicing different types of aircrafts. They are required to familiarize themselves with the mechanisms of the aircrafts under their care by reading maintenance manuals. They also observe the regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the scheduling of maintenance work for different operations. Aircraft Mechanics also perform inspections of completed work to make sure that the work meets performance criteria. They make sure that all repair and maintenance work are documented and records are properly maintained.

Aircraft Mechanics may specialize in certain areas of aircraft maintenance by gaining the necessary experience and certification. There are those who specialize in the examination, repair, maintenance and modification of aircraft engines. There are those who specialize in the repair and maintenance of an aircraft’s hydraulic, pneumatic, oxygen and fuel systems. There are also those who specialize in certain types of aircraft.

The work of Aircraft Mechanics requires substantive knowledge of airframes, and an aircraft’s mechanical, pneudraulic, and electrical systems and their interrelationships. Aircraft Mechanics in most cases receive the necessary education and training from an aviation maintenance technician school duly approved by the FAA. There are those who enter the occupation with a high school diploma or equivalent and gain the necessary experience on the job until they are able to pass the FAA exam and be certified themselves. There are also those who acquired this experience from the training they received in the military. The FAA requires that aircraft maintenance should be done by a certified mechanic or under the supervision of such.

The Federal Government employed 12% of the jobs held by aircraft mechanics and service technicians. The median salary of Aircraft Mechanics in the Federal Government for 2021 was $64,710. The percent change in employment for Aircraft Mechanics is expected to grow at a rate of 12% over ten years from 2020 - 2030. The demand for Aircraft Mechanics is expected to grow in relation to the expected increase in air traffic in the coming decade.