Military Aircraft Mechanics

Military Career

General Information

Description

Aircraft mechanics supervise or perform the inspection, service, and repair of the Military's fleet of helicopters and airplanes. These mechanics troubleshoot and maintain the aircraft’s structure, engines, and other components, including mission-critical features such as weapons and electronic warfare, and coatings for stealth purposes.

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Work Environment

Aircraft mechanics work in aircraft hangars and machine shops located on air bases or aboard aircraft carriers. They may work outside on the airfield, or in climate-controlled shops and hangars.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Comparable Industries

  • Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Enlisted
    • Hands-on/specialized
    • High school diploma required

Military Workforce

Aircraft Mechanics in the Military

38,016

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Salary

Average Salary

$56,738

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Post-secondary certificate 60%
  • Associate's degree 24%
  • High school 12%
  • Bachelor's degree 2%
  • Some college 0%
  • Master's degree 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%

Military training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Aircraft mechanics are offered advanced technical training that prepares them to maintain specific aircraft types and systems. Training content may include: Repair of hydraulic, fuel, and electrical systemsRepair of aluminum, steel, and fiberglass airframes and coveringsPrecision measurement and equipment calibrationEngine disassembly, inspection, and repairSoldering techniques

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Knowledge

  • Mechanical
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Customer and Personal Service

Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership
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