Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors
(NOC 7315)
in All Trades and TransportationAircraft mechanics maintain, repair, overhaul, modify and test aircraft structural, mechanical and hydraulic systems. Aircraft inspectors inspect structural and mechanical systems of aircraft and aircraft systems following manufacture, modification, maintenance, repair or overhaul and certify that these systems meet standards of performance and safety. Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors are employed by aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul establishments, and by airlines and other aircraft operators. Nova Scotia€™s aviation industry focuses on maritime aviation, composition fabrication, and electronic assemblies.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is a moderate sized occupation in Nova Scotia so some job opportunities may occur through turnover. The number employed in this occupation is expected to grow moderately over the next few years, which will likely provide some additional opportunities for employment. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs are typically permanent positions.
The median employment income for 78% of Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $66,047. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$15.00
Minimum$27.00
Median$43.27
MaximumAnnual Pay
$45,321
Minimum$65,603
Median$91,792
MaximumCompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Hourly Pay
$13.00
Minimum$20.35
Median$34.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$7,580
Minimum$37,269
Median$79,787
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Aircraft mechanics maintain, repair, overhaul, modify and test aircraft structural, mechanical and hydraulic systems. Aircraft inspectors inspect structural and mechanical systems of aircraft and aircraft systems following manufacture, modification, maintenance, repair or overhaul and certify that these systems meet standards of performance and safety. Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors are employed by aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul establishments, and by airlines and other aircraft operators. Nova Scotia€™s aviation industry focuses on maritime aviation, composition fabrication, and electronic assemblies.
Job duties
Aircraft mechanics perform some or all of the following duties:
- Troubleshoot aircraft structural, mechanical or hydraulic systems to identify problems and adjust and repair systems according to specifications, technical drawings, manuals and established procedures.
- Repair and overhaul aircraft structural, mechanical or hydraulic systems.
- Install or modify aircraft engines and mechanical, hydraulic, flight control, fuel and pneumatic systems.
- Dismantle airframes, aircraft engines or other aircraft systems for repair, overhaul and cleaning, and reassemble.
- Perform and document routine maintenance.
- Order and maintain inventory of parts and supplies.
Aircraft inspectors perform some or all of the following duties:
- Inspect structural and mechanical systems of aircraft and ensure that these systems meet Transport Canada and company standards of performance and safety.
- Inspect work of aircraft mechanics performing maintenance, repair and overhaul, or modification of aircraft and aircraft mechanical systems to ensure adherence to standards and procedures.
- Maintain detailed repair, inspection and certification records and reports. // Aircraft mechanics usually specialize in working on specific aircraft systems such as engines, engine accessories, airframes, propellers, mechanical components or hydraulic systems and specific kinds of aircraft, such as light aircraft, jet transports and helicopters.
Sample job titles
- aircraft engine mechanical systems technician
- aircraft engine tester
- aircraft inspector
- aircraft maintenance engineer (AME) (except avionics)
- aircraft maintenance technician
- aircraft mechanic
- aircraft structural repair technician
- flight test inspector
Skills
This work requires excellent spatial and form perception, agility, and coordination. You must be physically fit and have good eyesight and hearing. The ability to follow instructions and perform with a high degree of accuracy is essential. An interest in electronics, machine work, and general mechanics may be helpful.
Job requirements
- Completion of high school is required.
- A college diploma in aircraft maintenance or completion of a four-year apprenticeship program is usually required.
- Several years of on-the-job training are required for aircraft mechanics.
- Aircraft mechanics and inspectors who sign maintenance releases and certify airworthiness require an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's (AME) licence issued by Transport Canada.
- Industry certification from the Canadian Aviation Maintenance Council for some jobs in this group is available, but voluntary.
Other considerations
Aircraft mechanics may progress to foreman/woman, shop supervisor or aircraft inspector. With experience, aircraft inspectors may progress to shop inspector or supervisor. Aircraft mechanics and inspectors may acquire further endorsements to their AME licence allowing them to inspect and certify a broader range of aircraft and aircraft systems. AME licences are issued in the following categories: M-Small and Large Aircraft, E-Electronic Systems, S-Aircraft Structures. AME licences are issued in the following categories: M-Small and Large Aircraft, E-Electronic Systems, S-Aircraft Structures.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Annapolis Valley
Northern
Cape Breton
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Transportation and Warehousing
Public Administration
Other Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Other Services
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
35-44
25-34
55-64
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
35-44
55-64
25-34
Top levels of education
College certificate or diploma
N/ATrades certificate
N/AHigh school
N/ABachelor's degree
N/AUniversity certificate or diploma
N/ACompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Trades certificate
$40,890 median annual incomeHigh school
$28,089 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$39,023 median annual incomeLess than high school
$25,753 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$36,972 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult high school/secondary diploma programs
This program is typically offered at the high school level.The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) administers, coordinates, and supports the development and delivery of adult education programs through learning partners in Nova Scotia. Our learning partners include the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations that offer tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED, empowering Nova Scotians to achieve their learning and employment goals.
Institutions providing this program
Siège Social: 1695, Route 1
Pointe-de-l'Église, NS B0W 1M0
(902) 769-2114
PO Box 220
Halifax, NS B3J 2M4
(866) 679-6722
Various, NS
Various, NS
Airframe mechanics and aircraft maintenance technology/technician
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all aircraft components other than engines, propellers, avionics, and instruments. These programs include courses in layout and fabrication of sheet metal, fabric, wood, and other materials into structural members, parts, and fittings, and replacement of damaged or worn parts such as control cables and hydraulic units.
Institutions providing this program
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
(902) 491-1100
Avionics maintenance technology/technician
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of aircraft operating, control, and electronic systems. These programs include courses in flight instrumentation, aircraft communications and homing systems, radar and other sensory systems, navigation aids, and specialized systems for various types of civilian and military aircraft.
Institutions providing this program
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
(902) 491-1100
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Not Provincially Regulated: This job may be regulated by a federal regulatory body.