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 work for aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair, and overhaul businesses, 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 like engines, engine accessories, airframes, propellers, mechanical components or hydraulic systems and specific kinds of aircraft like light aircraft, jet transports and helicopters.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
Hourly Pay
$15.00
Minimum$32.87
Median$42.69
MaximumAnnual Pay
$45,321
Minimum$65,603
Median$91,792
MaximumCompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Hourly Pay
$15.00
Minimum$24.00
Median$37.00
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 work for aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair, and overhaul businesses, 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 like engines, engine accessories, airframes, propellers, mechanical components or hydraulic systems and specific kinds of aircraft like light aircraft, jet transports and helicopters.
Job duties
Aircraft mechanics:
- 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.
- Complete and document routine maintenance.
- Order and maintain inventory of parts and supplies.
Aircraft inspectors:
- 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
- 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 add 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
$67,871 median annual incomeAnnapolis Valley
$65,620 median annual incomeNorth Shore
$58,433 median annual incomeCape Breton
N/ASouthern
N/ACompared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Transportation and warehousing
Public administration
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Other services (except public administration)
What is the age of Employment?
45-54
25-34
35-44
55-64
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Trades and Transportation
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
15-24
Top levels of education
College Diploma
$61,993 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$66,481 median annual incomeHigh school
$65,717 median annual incomeBachelor
N/ADiploma Below Bachelor
N/ACompared to: All Trades and Transportation
Trade Certification
$46,494 median annual incomeHigh school
$31,260 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$42,050 median annual incomeLess than high school
$28,319 median annual incomeBachelor
$30,527 median annual incomeEducation & training
Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technician
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all aircraft components other than engines, propellers, avionics, and instruments. They 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
Various, NS
High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School ProgramAdults without a high school diploma can contact the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) for tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL oversees adult education programs in Nova Scotia. NSSAL partners with the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations to deliver programs. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED.
Institutions providing this program
Various, NS
Various, NS
Various, NS
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Not Provincially Regulated: This job may be regulated by a federal regulatory body.
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.