Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced technology, the demand for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers is more critical than ever.

As aviation technology soars to new heights, the need for skilled professionals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the safety of our aircraft grows with it.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

Whether you are:

A job seeker wanting to understand the core of this role,
A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
Or merely fascinated by the intricate world of aircraft maintenance engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Aircraft Maintenance Engineer job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s take off and explore.

Contents show

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are responsible for keeping aircraft in working order through maintenance, repairs and inspections.

They must have a strong understanding of aircraft systems, the ability to diagnose issues and the competence to fix problems.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

Performing routine aircraft maintenance and inspections to ensure aircraft comply with aviation standards and safety regulations
Diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues and proposing corrective actions
Repairing or replacing malfunctioning aircraft components
Testing aircraft systems and individual parts to ensure they are working optimally
Keeping detailed records of the maintenance, repair and inspection work
Operating diagnostic equipment to test aircraft structural soundness
Coordinating and communicating with other team members and departments to ensure efficient and safe aircraft operations
Ensuring the necessary materials, parts and equipment are available for all tasks
Continuously learning about new technologies and repair methods
Adhering to environmental regulations in disposing of hazardous waste and materials

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Aircraft Maintenance Engineer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for performing regular maintenance, repairs, and inspections on a variety of aircraft to ensure that they are operating safely and efficiently.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer responsibilities include diagnosing mechanical and electronic issues, performing preventive maintenance, replacing defective parts, and maintaining detailed records of all repairs and inspections conducted.

The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of aircraft operation and maintenance procedures.

Responsibilities

Inspecting and maintaining aircraft systems including engines, landing gear, instruments, and electronic systems
Diagnosing and repairing mechanical and electronic issues in aircraft
Performing routine preflight and postflight inspections
Replacing and repairing defective parts
Adhering to all FAA regulations and safety standards
Maintaining detailed records of all maintenance work performed
Ordering necessary supplies and parts
Staying updated on the latest aircraft maintenance procedures and technologies

Qualifications

Proven work experience as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Knowledge of aircraft operation and maintenance procedures
Familiarity with FAA regulations and safety standards
Excellent troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
Ability to work under pressure and maintain composure in emergency situations
Physical stamina and manual dexterity
FAA Aircraft Maintenance Engineer certification
High school diploma; further training in aviation or relevant field is a plus

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Work Environment: Hangar or airfield. Position may require work in all weather conditions and could involve physical exertion. Travel may be required.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Maintenance Supervisor or Aircraft Maintenance Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $57,000 minimum to $102,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Do?

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are highly skilled professionals who ensure the safety and functionality of aircraft.

They perform regular inspections of aircraft to identify any abnormalities and ensure that all parts are in working order.

This involves checking the aircraft’s mechanical systems, engines, and other components such as landing gear, instruments, and control systems.

Their duties also include conducting routine pre-flight inspections and performing scheduled maintenance tasks such as oil changes, engine overhauls, and part replacements.

They use a variety of diagnostic tools, such as x-rays and ultrasonic equipment, to detect any cracks or other damage in the aircraft’s frame or parts.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers also troubleshoot and repair any issues that arise, whether they are mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic in nature.

If necessary, they will replace defective components with new ones and test the repaired equipment to ensure it operates correctly.

In addition to the physical work on aircraft, these engineers must maintain detailed records of all work performed, including any parts replaced and the likely cause of any problems found.

This documentation can be vital for tracking recurring issues and determining when major overhauls or replacements are necessary.

Overall, the primary responsibility of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is to ensure that an aircraft is safe for flight.

They play a critical role in the aviation industry by ensuring the aircraft’s compliance with aviation regulations and standards.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Qualifications and Skills

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer should possess a blend of technical knowledge, practical skills, and a keen attention to detail.

Essential qualifications and skills include:

Strong technical knowledge of aircraft systems and operations, understanding the intricate details of various aircraft models.
Practical mechanical and electrical skills to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain aircraft components.
Problem-solving skills to effectively identify and resolve issues affecting an aircraft’s performance.
Attention to detail to ensure every part of the aircraft is maintained according to strict safety standards.
Interpersonal and communication skills to liaise with pilots, crew, and other engineers, and to explain technical information clearly.
Physical fitness and dexterity to handle heavy equipment, work in confined spaces, and perform tasks with precision.
Ability to work under pressure and make critical decisions quickly, especially when addressing urgent mechanical issues or faults.
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures in the aviation industry, ensuring all tasks are conducted within these guidelines.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Aircraft Maintenance Engineers often require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an apprenticeship or part-time role in aviation maintenance.

Candidates may also gain experience by working in roles such as Aircraft Mechanic, Maintenance Technician or other roles related to aircraft servicing and repair.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are usually expected to have developed their technical skills and knowledge in aircraft systems, avionics, and mechanics through previous roles as Junior Aircraft Maintenance Engineers or similar positions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some supervisory or leadership experience and may be equipped to take on roles such as Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor, or even Maintenance Manager.

These individuals often have broad and deep expertise in maintaining different types of aircraft, from small planes to large commercial jets.

It is also important to note that most Aircraft Maintenance Engineer roles require certification from an accredited aviation maintenance school or an equivalent degree.

Continuing education is also crucial in this field, as technology and best practices in aircraft maintenance are constantly evolving.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are required to have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent education.

However, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in aviation maintenance, mechanical engineering, or a similar field.

In addition to academic qualifications, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are required to complete specific training programs approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

These programs typically last between 18 months to 2 years and cover topics such as engine maintenance, propeller systems, and aircraft electrical systems.

Upon completing the FAA-approved program, candidates are eligible to take the FAA certification exams for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.

This certification is mandatory in order to legally perform aircraft maintenance and is widely regarded as a standard of competence in the industry.

Some Aircraft Maintenance Engineers also choose to pursue additional specialized certifications, such as those for working on specific types of aircraft or using certain types of equipment.

Continuing education and training are essential in this field due to the rapid advancements in aircraft technology.

As such, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are expected to regularly update their skills and knowledge through professional development courses and workshops.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Salary Expectations

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $74,610 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may fluctuate depending on factors such as the level of experience, the certifications held, the size and nature of the employing company, and the geographical location.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer need?

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer should have excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and strong mechanical aptitude.

They should also have a good understanding of math and physics, excellent manual dexterity, and strong communication skills to understand and follow complex technical instructions and manuals.

Do Aircraft Maintenance Engineers need a degree?

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers don’t necessarily need a degree, but they must have received training from an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school.

Alternatively, they can gain the necessary experience through military training or on-the-job training.

However, holding a degree in aircraft maintenance or a related field could enhance employment prospects.

What should you look for in an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer resume?

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s resume should highlight their education or training from an FAA-approved school or program.

The resume should also show a valid FAA Aircraft Maintenance Engineer license.

In addition, experience in aircraft maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair is crucial.

Familiarity with the type of aircraft used by your company is also a plus.

What qualities make a good Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

A good Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is highly detail-oriented, as overlooking even a tiny defect can lead to serious consequences.

They should have strong problem-solving skills to identify and fix issues promptly.

Good physical stamina and hand-eye coordination are also necessary due to the nature of their job.

They must be able to work under pressure and make quick decisions to ensure the safety of the aircraft.

Is it difficult to hire Aircraft Maintenance Engineers?

Hiring Aircraft Maintenance Engineers can be challenging due to the stringent requirements of the job.

There is a high demand for qualified engineers, and finding candidates with the necessary skills, certifications, and experience can be a daunting task.

Therefore, offering competitive salaries and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth and development, can help attract the right candidates.

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve taken a closer look at the integral role of an aircraft maintenance engineer.

And here’s a surprise.

It’s not just about fixing planes.

It’s about ensuring safety and efficiency in the skies, one aircraft at a time.

With our dedicated aircraft maintenance engineer job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But there’s more!

Take it a step further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every aircraft maintenance task contributes to a safer flight.

Let’s keep our skies safe. Together.

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