Description

An aircraft engineer is the person responsible for ensuring that airplanes within a fleet of air services providers are properly maintained, repaired, and safe for flight. The engineer performs a variety of daily inspections on different aircraft, logs the results of any anomalies or tests performed on the airplanes, and performs or oversees any necessary repairs and re-inspections.Many of the inspections that aircraft engineers perform on planes are of the routine variety. These inspections typically involve examination and/or testing of flight and aircraft mechanical systems while the plane is on the ground. The engineer will typically log the result of all tests, and these test logs are filed and kept for inspection by any authorities who request them in the future. In addition to these routine tests, many aircraft have specialized in-depth inspections that must be performed periodically. The engineer also carries out more in-depth assessments of the craft's flightworthiness and carries out any corrective actions that might need to be taken.Aircraft engineers typically are persons who either have university degrees in aerospace engineering or some related discipline. They at least need to have extensive post-secondary school training in aircraft repair and maintenance. Most jurisdictions require accreditation and demonstration of continuing education by aircraft engineers as a stipulation for holding this job. Aircraft engineers typically work in an aviation mechanical shop environment during regular business hours of the week.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Aircraft Engineer with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Conducting thorough inspections and assessments of aircraft systems, structures, and components to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintenance standards.
  • Managing and overseeing aircraft maintenance and repair tasks, coordinating with technicians and other team members to ensure efficient and timely completion.
  • Developing and implementing preventive maintenance programs, including scheduling routine inspections, servicing, and replacement of parts to ensure optimal aircraft performance and safety.
  • Analyzing and troubleshooting complex aircraft issues, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to identify and resolve technical problems, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Aircraft Engineer, the following qualifications are required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field to demonstrate a strong foundation in aircraft design, structures, and systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of aviation regulations and standards such as FAA or EASA to ensure compliance and safety in aircraft operations and maintenance.
  • Proficiency in computer-aided design software for creating and modifying aircraft designs, as well as analyzing aerodynamic performance.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and troubleshoot aircraft-related issues, including mechanical failures, electrical systems, or avionics components.

Essential Skills For Aircraft Engineer

1

Mathematical Optimization

2

Mathematical Logic

3

Aerodynamics

4

Laws of Physics

Career Prospects

For an Aircraft Engineer job role with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are four options:

  • Aerospace Systems Engineer: A position that involves designing and developing aircraft systems, including avionics, electrical systems, and propulsion systems.
  • Maintenance Manager: A role focused on overseeing the maintenance and repair of aircraft, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and optimizing operational efficiency.
  • Quality Assurance Engineer: A position that involves implementing and maintaining quality control processes for aircraft manufacturing or maintenance, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
  • Project Manager: A role that involves leading and managing aircraft engineering projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring project deliverables are met within budget and timeline constraints.

How to Learn

The job role of Aircraft Engineer in Canada is projected to experience steady growth in the market over the next decade. According to recent data from Google, there is a high demand for professionals in this field due to advancements in aviation technology and an increased focus on aircraft safety. With the rise in air travel and the aging of the current workforce, employment opportunities for Aircraft Engineers are expected to expand significantly. Over the next 10 years, numerous job openings are anticipated to be available, making it a promising career option for individuals interested in the aviation industry.