Aircraft Mechanic / Service Technician

Aircraft mechanics or service technicians are responsible for all aspects of the care and maintenance of aircraft. They provide both urgent maintenance to address specific issues and continued general care to ensure aircraft remain in good condition.

Aircraft mechanics inspect planes for proper function, including checking hydraulics, electronics, exhaust systems, and landing gear. They ensure proper de-icing before flight, as well as install ancillary equipment such as extra fuel tanks or towing gear. When a plane experiences difficulties, they troubleshoot problems and use standard mechanic tools to determine the issue and make necessary repairs, if possible. In some cases, specialists may be needed to repair more delicate or specialized aircraft components. For general maintenance, aircraft mechanics ensure periodic standard maintenance and corrosion prevention occurs. They monitor fluid levels, as well as test fuel for contamination and proper mix proportions. Aircraft mechanics must maintain proper records of all maintenance activities to ensure all procedures occur as scheduled.

Aircraft mechanics work in a repair shop environment, generally at an airport. They use hand tools as well as some heavy equipment, and they may work with a team to troubleshoot aircraft issues in a timely manner. They work with some dangerous equipment and chemicals in a busy environment with moving equipment, people, and aircraft.

Aircraft mechanics typically are required to have some experience in repair work and with using hand tools. There is wide latitude in responsibilities and amount of supervision in the field, with higher level aircraft mechanics requiring years of experience in some cases. Some aircraft mechanics may be required to hold specific Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications to perform specialized work on airframes or power plant systems.

As an Aircraft Mechanic / Service Technician with 9+ years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

• Conducting thorough inspections, troubleshooting, and repairing aircraft systems and components to ensure safe and efficient operation. You will be responsible for performing detailed inspections, diagnosing issues, and carrying out necessary repairs to ensure the aircraft's systems and components are functioning properly and meet safety standards.
• Performing scheduled maintenance and servicing according to manufacturer's guidelines. You will adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and carry out scheduled maintenance tasks, including routine servicing, lubrication, and system checks, to ensure the aircraft is operating at its optimal level.
• Documenting all maintenance activities, including repairs, replacements, and inspections. You will maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, documenting repairs, part replacements, and inspections performed on the aircraft, contributing to the maintenance history and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Collaborating with other team members, including engineers and technicians, to troubleshoot complex issues and implement effective solutions.

For an Aircraft Mechanic/Service Technician job role, the following qualifications are required:

• In-depth knowledge of aircraft systems and components to diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical issues efficiently.
• Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot complex technical problems and implement effective solutions under time constraints.
• Proficient understanding of maintenance manuals, technical drawings, and specifications to perform accurate inspections and maintenance tasks.
• Excellent attention to detail and safety consciousness to adhere to regulatory standards and ensure the highest level of aircraft performance and safety.

With over 9 years of experience as an Aircraft Mechanic / Service Technician in Australia, there are several alternative roles you can explore. Here are four options to consider:

• Aviation Maintenance Supervisor: A leadership position overseeing the maintenance operations of an aviation company, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and coordinating maintenance schedules.
• Quality Assurance Inspector: A role focused on inspecting and certifying aircraft maintenance and repair work to ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Aircraft Technical Writer: A position involving creating and updating technical manuals, procedures, and documentation for aircraft maintenance, repairs, and modifications.
• Aviation Maintenance Instructor: A role where you can share your expertise and experience by teaching aspiring aircraft mechanics and technicians in educational institutions or training centers.

The job role of Aircraft Mechanic/Service Technician in Australia is projected to experience steady growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, employment opportunities for this role are expected to increase. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is likely to rise due to the growth and expansion of the aviation industry.