Aviation Maintenance Technician
What is an Aviation Maintenance Technician?
An Aviation Maintenance Technician is someone who inspects, maintains, and repairs aircraft to ensure they are safe and ready for flight.
What does an Aviation Maintenance Technician do?
Usually, an Aviation Maintenance Technician does the following:
- Inspects aircraft for any signs of wear or damage
- Performs regular maintenance tasks, such as replacing parts and fluids
- Conducts repairs on aircraft systems, such as engines, electrical systems, and hydraulics
- Tests aircraft systems to ensure they are functioning properly
- Keeps detailed records of maintenance and repairs performed
What does the day-to-day life of an Aviation Maintenance Technician look like?
An Aviation Maintenance Technician usually works between 9am and 5pm, but may also work evenings, weekends, and holidays. The working hours can vary depending on where you work, such as an airport, aircraft maintenance facility, or helicopter base.
A typical day may involve:
- Inspecting aircraft before and after flights
- Conducting routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and filter replacements
- Troubleshooting and repairing aircraft systems
- Testing aircraft systems to ensure proper functioning
Where does an Aviation Maintenance Technician work?
Aviation Maintenance Technicians can work in various settings, including:
- Airlines: These companies have their own maintenance facilities where technicians work on their fleet of aircraft.
- Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Facilities: These facilities specialize in maintaining and repairing aircraft from different airlines and private owners.
- General Aviation: This includes smaller aircraft, such as private planes and helicopters, where technicians may work at airports or private hangars.
What tools/software/hardware does an Aviation Maintenance Technician use?
An Aviation Maintenance Technician uses a variety of tools and equipment, including:
- Hand tools: Wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, etc., for performing various tasks
- Power tools: Drills, impact wrenches, etc., for faster and more efficient work
- Diagnostic equipment: Testers and meters to diagnose and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems
- Computer software: Some technicians use software programs for maintenance scheduling and documentation
What do I need to become an Aviation Maintenance Technician?
There are a number of ways you can become an Aviation Maintenance Technician, including:
- Opportunities after leaving school: You can join an aviation maintenance apprenticeship program after leaving school, which provides on-the-job training and qualifications.
- Aviation Maintenance Training: You can attend a Part 147 aircraft maintenance technician school approved by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK.
- Military Experience: If you have served in the military as an aircraft technician, you can transfer your skills to work in civilian aviation.
What career paths are available?
There are several career paths available to you as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, including:
- Lead or Senior Technician: With experience, you can progress to a higher-level position where you may oversee a team of technicians and take on more complex tasks.
- Inspector or Quality Assurance: You can specialize in inspecting aircraft for compliance with regulations and ensuring high-quality maintenance.
- Aircraft Maintenance Manager: With additional qualifications and experience, you can move into a management role overseeing maintenance operations.
What jobs are similar to an Aviation Maintenance Technician?
- Aircraft Engineer: An Aircraft Engineer designs and develops aircraft and their systems.
- Avionics Technician: An Avionics Technician focuses on the electrical and electronics systems of aircraft.
- Aerospace Engineer: An Aerospace Engineer works on the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft.
What made you want to become an Aviation Maintenance Technician?
How did you get your first Aviation Maintenance Technician job?
What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being an Aviation Maintenance Technician?
Are you an Aviation Maintenance Technician? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to Aviation Maintenance Technician. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.