Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors

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. 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.

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.

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.

Regulations

Contacts

AME (aircraft maintenance engineer) (except avionics)

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