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Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, who are also known as Aviation Maintenance Technicians, are responsible for the upkeep, repair, and inspection of all aircrafts, helicopters, and drones. These professionals need to have a working knowledge of all the systems that are used in these crafts as they do the hands-on work of keeping aircraft operating at full capacity. Those who are just starting out can get their start by working on the ground but may eventually move up to work on aircraft while they are in flight, servicing equipment mid-air.

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Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, who are also known as Aviation Maintenance Technicians, are responsible for the upkeep, repair, and inspection of all aircrafts, helicopters, and drones. These professionals need to have a working knowledge of all the systems that are used in these crafts as they do the hands-on work of keeping aircraft operating at full capacity. Those who are just starting out can get their start by working on the ground but may eventually move up to work on aircraft while they are in flight, servicing equipment mid-air.

Education and Training

There are a few different paths that can be taken to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. One option is to enroll in an aviation maintenance program at a community college or technical school. These programs typically take two years to complete and provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to work on aircraft. Another option is to join the military and train as an aircraft mechanic. Military experience can provide valuable hands-on training and experience, but it is important to note that military training may not always be directly transferable to civilian jobs. If you are interested in working as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, it is important to make sure that you have the necessary skills and training. This can be done by completing an aviation maintenance program or by gaining experience in the military.

Licensing and Certification

Depending on the specific job that an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer performs, they may need to obtain a license or certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). There are a few different types of licenses and certifications that are available, and the specific requirements will vary depending on the type of work that is being performed. If you are not sure if you need a license or certification, it is important to check with the FAA. Failure to comply can lead to civil penalties or prosecution.

Skills

There are a few key skills that all Aircraft Maintenance Engineers need to have. These skills include:

  • Strong mechanical skills
  • Ability to read and understand technical manuals
  • Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Attention to detail
  • Safety-consciousness

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers is expected to be good in the coming years. This is due to the increasing demand for air travel. As the number of people who travel by air increases, so too will the need for qualified Aircraft Maintenance Engineers to keep aircraft in good working condition. If you are looking for a career in the aviation industry, becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is a great option.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The day-to-day responsibilities of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer can vary depending on the specific job that they hold. However, some of the common responsibilities include:

  • Inspecting aircraft for damage or wear and tear
  • Performing maintenance and repairs on aircraft
  • Troubleshooting and solving problems with aircraft systems
  • Keeping records of all maintenance and repairs
  • Ensuring that aircraft are safe to fly

Challenges

There are a few challenges that Aircraft Maintenance Engineers may face. These challenges include:

  • Working in a physically demanding environment
  • Working in all weather conditions
  • Dealing with tight deadlines
  • Having to work independently and as part of a team

Personal Growth

There are a number of opportunities for personal growth for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. These opportunities include:

  • Earning promotions to more senior positions
  • Gaining experience in different areas of aircraft maintenance
  • Developing new skills and knowledge
  • Taking on leadership roles
  • Becoming involved in professional organizations

Online Courses

Online courses are a great way to prepare for a career as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. These courses can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this field. There are many different online courses available, so you can find one that fits your learning style and needs. Some of the topics that you may learn about in an online course include:

  • Aircraft systems
  • Aircraft maintenance
  • Aircraft troubleshooting
  • Aircraft safety
  • FAA regulations

Online courses can be a helpful way to supplement your education and training. However, it is important to note that they are not a substitute for hands-on experience. If you are serious about becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, you will need to complete an aviation maintenance program or gain experience in the military.

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Salaries for Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

City
Median
New York
$105,000
San Francisco
$103,000
Seattle
$98,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$105,000
San Francisco
$103,000
Seattle
$98,000
Austin
$92,000
Toronto
$87,000
London
£95,000
Paris
€47,400
Berlin
€52,000
Tel Aviv
₪516,000
Singapore
S$109,000
Beijing
¥134,000
Shanghai
¥140,000
Shenzhen
¥540,000
Bengalaru
₹1,184,000
Delhi
₹370,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Path to Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Take the first step.
We've curated 12 courses to help you on your path to Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
Sorted from most relevant to least relevant:

Reading list

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This practical guide to airport safety management provides a comprehensive overview of the subject. It is written by an author who is an expert in the field, and it covers all aspects of airport safety management, from risk assessment to emergency planning.
Covers the fundamentals of aircraft maintenance and repair, including airframe, engine, and systems maintenance. It comprehensive overview of the field, suitable for students and professionals alike.
This comprehensive textbook covers all aspects of airport engineering, from planning and design to construction and maintenance. It is written by an author who is an expert in the field, and it is highly regarded for its clarity and comprehensiveness.
Covers the fundamental principles of flight dynamics and control for aerospace vehicles, including aircraft, rockets, and spacecraft. It is essential reading for those seeking a deeper understanding of aircraft performance.
A classic textbook that provides detailed explanations of aircraft performance concepts, including the effects of weight, drag, power, and altitude on aircraft flight. It is suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students.
Provides an in-depth look at the management of aviation maintenance operations. It covers topics such as planning, scheduling, and quality control.
Presents an in-depth look at the performance and systems of fixed-wing aircraft, covering topics such as propulsion, flight control systems, and performance optimization.
A practical guide to the design and analysis of aircraft performance, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence aircraft flight.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and techniques used in aircraft control and simulation, including topics such as flight dynamics, stability and control, and simulation modeling. It is relevant for understanding the performance and handling qualities of aircraft.
A Chinese-language textbook that covers the fundamentals of aircraft performance and design. It is written for undergraduate and graduate students in aerospace engineering.
Provides a comprehensive overview of airport ground access and intermodal transportation. It is written by two authors who are experts in the field, and it is highly regarded for its clarity and comprehensiveness.
Covers the hydraulic systems of aircraft. It covers topics such as pumps, valves, and accumulators.
Covers the avionics systems of aircraft. It covers topics such as navigation, communication, and display systems.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of airport marketing and management. It is written by an author who is an expert in the field, and it is highly regarded for its clarity and comprehensiveness.
This handbook provides guidance on aircraft weight and balance calculations. It is essential reading for anyone involved in aircraft maintenance.
This series of books provides a comprehensive review of the material covered on the FAA's aviation maintenance technician certification exams.
This logbook allows aircraft maintenance technicians to track their work and stay organized.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of general aviation maintenance practices.
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