Career & application guide

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

Get to know the work, the skills that matter, and how to prepare your next application.

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What do aircraft mechanics and service technicians do?

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.

Job titles to recognize in your search

O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.

  • Aircraft Maintainer
  • Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Aircraft Maintenance Tech)
  • Aircraft Mechanic
  • Aircraft Restorer
  • Aircraft Service Technician (Aircraft Service Tech)
  • Aircraft Technician (Aircraft Tech)
  • Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic (A and P Mechanic)
  • Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT)

Core tasks to compare with a job posting

  • Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
  • Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
  • Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
  • Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.
  • Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.
  • Replace or repair worn, defective, or damaged components, using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.
  • Inspect airframes for wear or other defects.
  • Check for corrosion, distortion, and invisible cracks in the fuselage, wings, and tail, using x-ray and magnetic inspection equipment.
  • Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments.
  • Remove or install aircraft engines, using hoists or forklift trucks.

Prepare an application for this occupation

  1. Check the employer’s requirements, location, schedule and any licenses against your situation.
  2. Choose two or three tasks above that match the posting and your actual experience.
  3. Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
  4. Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.

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