The job responsibilities for aviation mechanics will vary depending upon their specialty, level of experience, and place of employment. Generally speaking, aviation mechanics are responsible for performing aircraft maintenance while following all of the safety rules that have been established by the Federal Aviation Administration.

The maintenance that is performed by aviation mechanics includes, but is not limited to airplane engines, landing gear, fuel and electrical systems, brakes, propeller and fan systems, valves, and pumps. In some cases, aviation mechanics may also perform exterior work, checking sheet metal and composite surfaces that can be found on the body of the airplane. When necessary, they repair corrosion and cracks that can sometimes occur in the fuselage, wings, and tail.

Increasingly, aviation mechanics specialize in preventative maintenance rather than repair.  The job duties for these mechanics also vary depending upon their level of experience and place of employment. Typically, they inspect engines, landing gear, flying instruments, brakes, and other integral parts of the aircraft. Inspections are conducted based on a combination of factors, such as the number of hours that an aircraft has flown and the amount of time since the last inspection.

Aviation mechanics work on many different kinds of aircraft, including helicopters, jets, and propeller driven planes. Most aviation jobs can be found at airlines or airports, aircraft assembly companies, and federal government organizations.

To work on civilian aircraft, aviation mechanics must hold an airframe or powerplant mechanic certificate issued by the FAA. Mechanics who are not licensed must work under the supervision of licensed mechanics.

New safety standards within the FAA dictate stricter requirements for aviation mechanics. To be eligible for certification, mechanics must complete an accredited aviation school program or have a minimum of 18 months of work experience. Before earning a certificate, aviation mechanics must pass both written and oral exams. They must also be able to demonstrate that they can do the work that will be authorized by the certificate.

If an aviation mechanic is interested in specializing in inspections, they must hold an airframe or powerplant mechanic certificate for at least three years. They must also have at least two years of work experience.

Most mechanics who enter this field are graduates of an aviation school or training program. Most schools offer two-year and four-year programs. Admission requirements for aviation schools vary, but a high school diploma or an equivalent is almost always a necessity. Curriculum also varies depending upon the aviation school, but courses usually include mathematics, physics, electronics, and computer science.

Aviation mechanics must also be committed to continuing education. The FAA requires aviation mechanics to complete at least 16 hours of training every two years to keep their certificate.

The job outlook for aviation mechanics is good. Job opportunities are expected to grow at an average rate. Aviation mechanics who have graduated from an aviation school or training program will have the best job opportunities.

Earnings for aviation mechanics vary depending upon the place of employment, level of education and experience, and geographic location. Generally, aviation mechanics that work for major airlines earn more than others. The median annual earnings for aviation mechanics averages $46,000 per year.