Aviation maintenance jobs are available in more fields than just aeronautics. Because aviation maintenance jobs involve work on turbine engines in general, work is also available in the nuclear power industry. Within aviation, an aviation mechanic may work on airframes, engines, propellers, radios and instrument panels. Aviation maintenance jobs involve both pre-flight checks and regular maintenance.
Aviation maintenance jobs in the United States require that mechanics be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration, also known as the FAA, but there are also aviation maintenance jobs for assistants who do not need certification. Mechanics must gain certification in the different areas of work, such as frames and engines, to gain the ability to perform the work. Aviation training typically requires completion of a two-year program that includes 30 hours of course instruction each week. Mechanics must also pass an FAA test.
Aviation maintenance jobs require that mechanics maintain a good driving record and have training in driving trucks, hangar vehicles and other heavy mobile equipment used in aviation work. They must also have experience working on jets. Most aviation maintenance jobs are in air support and transportation. Other positions exist within aerospace and the government sector. Some aviation maintenance jobs are at small, private aviation companies, but they can also be at major airlines.
Aviation careers for maintenance workers can be found all over the world. Most commercial airlines have their own maintenance divisions at each airport where they have a flight center. Manufacturing is another sector of aviation where careers are available. Mechanics are needed through each step of the manufacturing process because it is vital for safety that planes be constructed correctly.
The military is another large employer of aviation mechanics. The military provides full training and support for those who wish to pursue this avenue. Military aviation mechanics work on many types of helicopters, airplanes and jets, giving these individuals broad training and experience. Having military experience is an excellent way to stand out from the competition and secure a high-paying aviation mechanic position.
Aviation maintenance jobs are also provided directly through regulatory bodies like the FAA or CAA. Mechanics may find work as aviation maintenance technicians or aviation maintenance technical engineers. Workers may also become inspectors, parts managers, parts installers or equipment service technicians.
Nuclear power plants also need aviation maintenance technicians. These plants use turbines to transform steam into electrical energy. Maintenance mechanics licensed to work on engines are ideally suited for maintaining these turbines.
