Aircraft Assemblers and Aircraft Assembly Inspectors
(NOC 9521)
in All Manufacturing and UtilitiesAircraft assemblers assemble, fit and install prefabricated parts to manufacture fixed wing or rotary wing aircraft or aircraft subassemblies. Aircraft assembly inspectors inspect aircraft assemblies to make sure they meet engineering specifications. They work for aircraft and aircraft subassembly manufacturers.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Manufacturing and Utilities
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 not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. The number employed in this occupation is expected to grow slightly over the next few years, which should 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 Assemblers and Aircraft Assembly Inspectors most commonly work full-time hours.
The median employment income for 68% of Aircraft Assemblers and Aircraft Assembly Inspectors who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $43,126. 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
$14.63
Minimum$24.00
Median$40.87
MaximumAnnual Pay
$22,320
Minimum$38,398
Median$67,350
MaximumCompared to: All Manufacturing and Utilities
Hourly Pay
$13.00
Minimum$23.91
Median$35.04
MaximumAnnual Pay
$6,056
Minimum$30,111
Median$70,518
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Aircraft assemblers assemble, fit and install prefabricated parts to manufacture fixed wing or rotary wing aircraft or aircraft subassemblies. Aircraft assembly inspectors inspect aircraft assemblies to make sure they meet engineering specifications. They work for aircraft and aircraft subassembly manufacturers.
Job duties
Aircraft assemblers:
- Read and interpret aircraft assembly diagrams.
- Assemble and fit prefabricated parts to form subassemblies, working at benches or directly on an aircraft structure.
- Assemble, fit and install prefabricated parts and subassemblies like aircraft skins, flight controls, rigging, hydraulics and other mechanical systems.
Aircraft assembly inspectors:
- Inspect aircraft assemblies, using measuring and testing equipment to make sure they meet engineering specifications.
- Inspect assemblies for alignment, symmetry, dimensions, fit and quality of workmanship.
- Complete detailed inspection documentation.
Sample job titles
- aircraft assembler
- aircraft assembly inspector
- airframe assembler
- bench and structural assembler
- bench fitter mechanic
- rigger
- wing tank mechanic
Skills
This work requires excellent spatial perception, form perception, and eye-to-finger coordination. You must be accurate and able to pay close attention to detail. A keen interest in working with machines and routine processes is necessary. You should also be physically fit and have good eyesight and hearing.
Job requirements
- Completion of high school is required.
- A college or other program in aviation or aeronautical technology, with emphasis in aircraft manufacturing, may be required.
- Aircraft assemblers receive several months of on-the-job and classroom training.
- Aircraft assembly inspectors require experience as an aircraft assembler.
Other considerations
Aircraft assemblers and assembly inspectors may move to supervisor positions with experience. Self-employment in these jobs is rare, and work is not typically seasonal.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Manufacturing and Utilities
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Southern
North Shore
Halifax
Cape Breton
Annapolis Valley
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Manufacturing
What is the age of Employment?
55-64
45-54
25-34
35-44
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Manufacturing and Utilities
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
15-24
Top levels of education
High school
$35,956 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$44,779 median annual incomeApprenticeship
N/ABachelor
N/ACompared to: All Manufacturing and Utilities
High school
$28,505 median annual incomeLess than high school
$19,224 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$38,781 median annual incomeApprenticeship
$43,975 median annual incomeBachelor
$39,715 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult High School Siploma or Equivalent
High School ProgramThe 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
Various, NS
Various, NS
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
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.