Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

• Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.87
• Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.86
• Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.84
• Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.83
• Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.82
• Replace or repair worn, defective, or damaged components, using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.81
• Inspect airframes for wear or other defects.81
• Check for corrosion, distortion, and invisible cracks in the fuselage, wings, and tail, using x-ray and magnetic inspection equipment.80
• Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments.80
• Remove or install aircraft engines, using hoists or forklift trucks.79
• Service and maintain aircraft and related apparatus by performing activities such as flushing crankcases, cleaning screens, and or moving parts.78
• Test operation of engines and other systems, using test equipment, such as ignition analyzers, compression checkers, distributor timers, or ammeters.78

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

• Equipment Maintenance97

  Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

• Repairing97

  Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

• Troubleshooting88

  Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

• Operations Monitoring81

  Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

• Reading Comprehension78

  Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

• Critical Thinking75

  Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

• Complex Problem Solving72

  Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

• Operation and Control69

  Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

• Quality Control Analysis69

  Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

• Monitoring66

  Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

• Active Listening63

  Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

• Judgment and Decision Making63

  Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

• Mechanical92

  Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

• Public Safety and Security71

  Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

• Engineering and Technology69

  Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

• English Language69

  Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.

• Transportation68

  Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

• Education and Training58

  Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

• Mathematics56

  Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

• Computers and Electronics54

  Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

• Physics54

  Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.

• Design53

  Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

• Customer and Personal Service49

  Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

• Chemistry47

  Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

• Problem Sensitivity88

  The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

• Near Vision78

  The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

• Written Comprehension78

  The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

• Control Precision75

  The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.

• Finger Dexterity75

  The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

• Information Ordering75

  The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

• Manual Dexterity75

  The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

• Deductive Reasoning72

  The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

• Inductive Reasoning72

  The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

• Multilimb Coordination72

  The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.

• Arm-Hand Steadiness69

  The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

• Flexibility of Closure69

  The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

• Documenting/Recording Information91

  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards90

  Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

• Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials90

  Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

• Getting Information89

  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

• Making Decisions and Solving Problems89

  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge86

  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

• Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment83

  Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates82

  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events81

  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

• Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment81

  Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

• Handling and Moving Objects80

  Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

• Performing General Physical Activities76

  Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

• Attention to Detail100

  A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.

• Dependability88

  A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.

• Cautiousness87

  A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.

• Integrity72

  A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

• Stress Tolerance65

  A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

• Perseverance59

  A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.

• Achievement Orientation58

  A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.

• Self-Control53

  A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.

• Adaptability41

  A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.

• Intellectual Curiosity40

  A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.

• Self-Confidence37

  A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.

• Cooperation34

  A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

• Realistic95

  Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

• Conventional62

  Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

• Investigative47

  Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

• Enterprising14

  Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.

• Social5

  Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

• Artistic0

  Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

• Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

  • Every day76%
  • Once a week or more but not every day22%

• Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

  • Every day72%
  • Once a week or more but not every day27%

• Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

  • Every day80%
  • Once a week or more but not every day17%

• Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

  • Extremely important77%
  • Very important14%

• Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

  • Every day70%
  • Once a week or more but not every day26%

• Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

  • Continually or almost continually75%
  • More than half the time13%

• Frequency of Decision Making

  • Every day64%
  • Once a week or more but not every day30%

• Exposed to Contaminants

  • Every day63%
  • Once a week or more but not every day28%

• Contact With Others

  • Constant contact with others63%
  • Contact with others most of the time28%

• Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

  • Very important results42%
  • Important results39%
  • Moderate results18%

• Time Pressure

  • Every day39%
  • Once a week or more but not every day49%
  • Once a month or more but not every week11%

• Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

  • A lot of freedom30%
  • Some freedom50%
  • Limited freedom18%

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

• Post-secondary certificate
• Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
• High school diploma or equivalent

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

• Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  SAP software, Tracware AeroTrac

• Presentation software

  Microsoft PowerPoint

• Facilities management software

  Access Software AIRPAX, Maintenance information databases, Maintenance planning software, Maintenance record software

• Data base user interface and query software

  Mxi Technologies Maintenix, Operational Data Store ODS software, Pentagon 2000SQL

• Analytical or scientific software

  CaseBank SpotLight, Engine analysis software

• Information retrieval or search software

  Computerized aircraft log manager CALM, Technical manual database software

• Spreadsheet software

  Microsoft Excel

• Electronic mail software

  Microsoft Outlook

• Accounting software

  DatcoMedia EBis

• Document management software

  Technical Data Management System TDMS

• Office suite software

  Microsoft Office software

• Operating system software

  Microsoft Windows

• Word processing software

  Microsoft Word

• Internet browser software

  Web browser software

• Inventory management software

  Supply system software

• Compiler and decompiler software

  Disassembler software

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

• Aeronautical Repair Station Association
• Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association
• Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
• ASTM International
• Experimental Aircraft Association
• International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
• National Business Aviation Association
• Professional Aviation Maintenance Association

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

• Avionics Technicians
• Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators
• Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants
• Engineering Technicians, Except Drafters
• Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
• Engineering Technicians, Except Drafters
• Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
• Small Engine Mechanics
• Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians and Mechanics
• Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
• Aerospace Engineers
• Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians and Mechanics
• Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
• Control and Valve Installers and Repairers
• Industrial and Refractory Machinery Mechanics
• Sailors and marine oilers, and ship engineers
• Electrical and electronics repairers, transportation equipment, and industrial and utility
• Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
• Maintenance Workers, Machinery
• Electrical and electronics repairers, transportation equipment, and industrial and utility

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

• Inspect completed work to ensure proper functioning.
• Interpret blueprints, specifications, or diagrams to inform installation, development or operation activities.
• Read technical information needed to perform maintenance or repairs.
• Maintain repair or maintenance records.
• Inspect mechanical components of vehicles to identify problems.
• Repair worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
• Inspect structural components of vehicles to identify problems.
• Replace worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
• Move large objects using heavy equipment.
• Clean equipment, parts, or tools to repair or maintain them in good working order.
• Service vehicles to maintain functionality.
• Assemble electrical components, subsystems, or systems.

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

• Aerospace Propulsion Jet Engine Mech
• Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic
• Airframe Mechanic
• Pneudraulic Systems Mechanic
• Powerplant Mechanic
• Rocket-Engine-Component Mechanic