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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Jet Aircraft Repair Technician

💰 $ - $

AerospaceAviation MaintenanceAircraft Repair

🎯 Role Definition

We are seeking an experienced Jet Aircraft Repair Technician to perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, inspections, and repairs on turbine-powered jet aircraft. The ideal candidate holds FAA A&P or EASA Part-66 certification (or equivalent) and demonstrates strong troubleshooting skills across airframe, powerplant, avionics, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems. This role requires meticulous record-keeping, adherence to manufacturer maintenance manuals (AMM/IPC), regulatory compliance (FAA/EASA), and a safety-first mindset while working on the hangar floor, tarmac, and in confined spaces.

Key search terms: jet aircraft repair technician, aircraft maintenance technician, A&P mechanic, turbine engine technician, avionics technician, line maintenance, heavy maintenance, non-destructive testing (NDT), CMMS (AMOS/CAMP/RAMCO).

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Aircraft Maintenance Helper / Apprentice
  • Line Service Technician / Ramp Agent
  • Avionics or Sheet Metal Technician (junior level)

Advancement To:

  • Lead Jet Aircraft Technician / Shift Lead
  • Maintenance Supervisor / Shop Foreman
  • Reliability Engineer or Quality Assurance Inspector

Lateral Moves:

  • Avionics Specialist
  • Composite Repairs Technician
  • Structures / Sheet Metal Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, troubleshooting, inspection, repair, and overhaul of jet aircraft airframe structures, landing gear, flight controls, and control surfaces in accordance with the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC), and structural repair manuals.
  • Diagnose and repair turbine engines and engine accessories including borescope inspections, fuel control systems, bleed air systems, accessory gearbox components, and engine mounts while following engine manufacturer procedures and safety practices.
  • Conduct avionics troubleshooting and repair tasks such as testing and replacing flight instruments, communication and navigation radios, transponders, TCAS, autopilots, ADS-B, and wiring harness troubleshooting per wiring diagrams and avionics manuals.
  • Perform hydraulic, pneumatic, and brake system inspections, repairs, and component replacements including servos, actuators, accumulators, reservoirs, lines, fittings, and system functional checks with appropriate test stands and tools.
  • Carry out non-destructive testing (NDT) and inspections including eddy current, ultrasonic, dye penetrant, magnetic particle, and borescope techniques to detect cracks, corrosion, and structural defects; document findings and recommend repairs.
  • Execute structural repairs to composite and metallic airframe components — including bonding, scarfing, rivet patterns, cold work, patching, and replacement of stringers, doublers, and skins — to meet OEM structural repair standards.
  • Complete pre-flight, post-flight, daily, A-check, B-check, and C-check inspections; identify discrepancies, log findings in the maintenance logbook and CMMS, and implement corrective actions or deferred maintenance per MEL/CDL.
  • Read, interpret, and apply Airworthiness Directives (ADs), Service Bulletins (SBs), maintenance records, and engineering orders; execute AD compliance and ensure traceability of all corrective actions.
  • Use maintenance tracking systems (CAMP, AMOS, Ramco, Trax, Maintenix) to create and close work orders, track parts and labor, capture hours, and maintain compliance with company and regulatory record-keeping policies.
  • Troubleshoot complex electrical systems and wiring using schematics and multimeters; perform soldering, crimping, connector replacement, and wire routing to restore system integrity and performance.
  • Perform engine ground run-ups, functional operational checks, and system leak checks; monitor parameters and log test results while maintaining clearances and ground safety procedures.
  • Support removal and installation of major components (APU, engines, flight controls, landing gear) using jacks, hoists, slings, and special tooling while following weight, balance, and structural handling procedures.
  • Execute corrosion control and prevention work, including removal, treatment, priming, and application of anti-corrosion compounds, ensuring long-term structural integrity and compliance with corrosion control programs.
  • Calibrate, inspect, and maintain tooling and test equipment (torque wrenches, jack stands, pressure gauges, borescope gear); ensure tooling calibration is current and equipment is safely stored and labeled.
  • Coordinate with supply chain and procurement to identify and order parts, consumables, and shop stock; obtain technical data for obscure parts and liaise with vendors for warranty or serviceable-unit exchanges.
  • Mentor and train junior technicians and apprentices on safe, efficient work methods, OEM repair processes, best practices for documentation, and correct use of tools and test equipment.
  • Execute troubleshooting and repair of environmental control systems (air conditioning packs, heat exchangers, pressurization systems) to restore passenger and cockpit environmental functions.
  • Perform accurate and timely documentation of all maintenance actions in logbooks, electronic maintenance records, and discrepancy tags; ensure paperwork meets regulatory and audit standards.
  • Participate in incident investigations, root cause analysis, and reliability programs to reduce repeat discrepancies and improve fleet dispatch reliability.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized hangar environment; apply lockout/tagout procedures, hazardous materials handling, and personal protective equipment protocols at all times.
  • Support ferry flights, functional checks, and test runs, working closely with pilots and flight operations to verify aircraft condition and sign off required release-to-service documentation.
  • Inspect and repair cabin interiors when necessary (seats, panels, galleys) and perform minor structural adjustments to meet customer presentation and safety standards.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist engineering teams with troubleshooting complex in-service defects, write up technical findings, and execute engineering-approved repairs per Repair Design Approval (RDA).
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives: suggest process improvements, update maintenance instructions, and help optimize hangar workflow to reduce aircraft AOG time.
  • Conduct parts and consumable inventory counts, help maintain stock levels, and assist in cycle counts for FAA/EASA audit readiness.
  • Participate in safety meetings, recurrent training, and continuous professional development to maintain currency with evolving regulations, new-model aircraft, and advanced diagnostic tools.
  • Act as a point of contact with vendors, subcontractors, and third-party providers for specialized repairs, warranty coordination, and outsourcing approvals.
  • Provide on-call support during AOG events and extended maintenance windows; coordinate with scheduling to prioritize high-impact repairs and return aircraft to service.
  • Assist Quality Assurance with audits and compliance checks by providing maintenance records, tool calibration certificates, and demonstrating completed repairs.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License or EASA Part-66 Category B1/B2 certification (or equivalent regulatory certification).
  • Proven experience maintaining jet turbine aircraft (regional jets, narrowbody or business jets such as Boeing 737, Airbus A320, Gulfstream, Bombardier, Embraer).
  • Strong avionics troubleshooting skills: radios, navigation, autopilot, transponder, ADS-B, TCAS, and EFIS systems.
  • Engine systems and accessory knowledge: fuel systems, oil systems, bleed air, start systems, and borescope inspection proficiency.
  • Hydraulic and pneumatic systems troubleshooting, testing, and repair experience.
  • Proficient with structural repair techniques for metallic and composite materials including cold-working, riveting, bonding, and panel replacement.
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) certifications or experience: eddy current, ultrasonic, dye penetrant, magnetic particle, and borescope inspections.
  • Experience with maintenance manuals, structural repair manuals, IPC/AMM/ATA chapters and interpretation of wiring diagrams and schematics.
  • CMMS and maintenance tracking tools: CAMP, AMOS, Maintenix, Ramco, Trax, or equivalent.
  • Proficient with hand and power tools, torqueing equipment, jacks, hoists, test benches, and calibration practices.
  • Knowledge of Airworthiness Directives (ADs), Service Bulletins (SBs), Minimum Equipment List (MEL), and Configuration Control procedures.
  • Electrical and bonding knowledge, including troubleshooting circuits, connectors, and the safe use of multimeters and insulation resistance testers.
  • Experience performing ground runs, functional checks, system leak tests, and operational verification procedures.
  • Familiarity with corrosion control, paint touch-up basics, and protective compound application.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering orders, repair drawings, and approved technical data.
  • Experience with parts identification, sourcing, and interaction with logistics/supply chain for rotable exchange and warranty claims.

Soft Skills

  • Strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis capability under time pressure.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for precise documentation and cross-functional coordination.
  • High attention to detail and quality orientation to ensure regulatory compliance and safety.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional maintenance team.
  • Time management and prioritization skills to meet turnaround and dispatch timelines.
  • Customer-service mindset when interacting with flight crews, operators, and third-party customers.
  • Adaptability to changing aircraft types, shifting schedules, and emergency AOG situations.
  • Mentoring and coaching skills for developing junior technicians and apprentices.
  • Strong safety mindset with ability to follow procedures and influence a safety-first culture.
  • Integrity and professionalism in handling maintenance records and regulatory documentation.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED; vocational training in aviation maintenance preferred.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology, Aerospace Engineering Technology, or equivalent technical discipline.
  • Formal apprenticeship or military aircraft maintenance training highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Aviation Maintenance Technology
  • Aerospace Engineering Technology
  • Aircraft Structures and Systems
  • Electrical / Avionics Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3–10 years of progressive experience maintaining turbine-powered jet aircraft (line and/or base maintenance).

Preferred:

  • 5+ years of hands-on experience with jet aircraft systems and at least 2 years on the specific aircraft family supported.
  • FAA A&P or EASA Part-66 certification, NDT certifications, and documented experience with CMMS (CAMP/AMOS/Maintenix).
  • Experience in hangar-based heavy maintenance (A/B/C checks) and line maintenance/AOG support.
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