Aircraft Structures Technician Jobs

What are the roles and responsibilities of an aircraft structures technician?

An Aircraft Structures Technician, also known as an Aircraft Structures Mechanic or Aviation Maintenance Technician (Structures), is a crucial member of the aviation maintenance team responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining the structural components of an aircraft.

aircraft structural mechanic working on repairs to a small aircraft

Their primary focus is on ensuring the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft. The roles and responsibilities of an Aircraft Structures Technician typically include:

Structural Inspections: Conducting thorough visual inspections and non-destructive testing (NDT) of the aircraft’s structural components to identify signs of damage, corrosion, or fatigue.
Repairs and Modifications: Performing repairs and modifications to the aircraft’s structural elements, such as fuselage, wings, empennage, control surfaces, and landing gear, following the aircraft manufacturer’s guidelines and approved maintenance procedures.
Sheet Metal Work: Fabricating, shaping, and installing sheet metal parts and panels to repair damaged or worn-out sections of the aircraft.
Composite Repairs: Working with composite materials to repair or replace damaged composite components of the aircraft.
Welding and Riveting: Performing welding and riveting tasks to join and secure metal parts and structures as required for repairs or modifications.
Documentation: Maintaining detailed records of work performed, inspections conducted, and parts used in compliance with aviation regulations and maintenance standards.
Safety Compliance: Ensuring all work is conducted safely and adheres to aviation safety regulations and industry best practices.
Collaboration: Collaborating with other aviation maintenance technicians, engineers, and supervisors to troubleshoot complex structural issues and develop effective repair solutions.
Tools and Equipment Maintenance: Properly using, maintaining, and calibrating specialized tools and equipment used in structural repairs.
Structural Damage Assessment: Assisting in evaluating the extent of damage to the aircraft’s structure after incidents or accidents to support repair or insurance claims.
Compliance with Regulations: Following aviation regulations, manufacturer’s service bulletins, airworthiness directives, and other applicable guidelines in all maintenance and repair tasks.
Quality Control: Ensuring that all repairs, modifications, and inspections are performed to high-quality standards, meeting the requirements of the relevant aviation authorities.
Continuous Learning: Staying up-to-date with technological advancements, industry trends, and changes in aircraft structures to enhance skills and knowledge.
Environmental Considerations: Properly handling hazardous materials and waste generated during maintenance tasks, adhering to environmental regulations.
Aircraft Structures Technicians play a critical role in keeping aircraft safe and operational. Their expertise in maintaining the structural integrity of aircraft is essential for ensuring the safety of passengers and crew during flight.

What does a possible career path look like for an aircraft structures technician?

The career path for an Aircraft Structures Technician can vary based on individual preferences, professional development, and opportunities available in the aviation industry. Here’s a general outline of a possible career path:

Entry-Level Technician: After completing a formal education or training program in aircraft structures maintenance, individuals typically start as entry-level technicians. In this role, they assist more experienced technicians and gain hands-on experience with routine inspections and basic repairs.
Certification and Licensure: Many countries require Aircraft Structures Technicians to be certified by their aviation regulatory authority. Obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses is an essential step in advancing one’s career in this field.
Skill Development: As an Aircraft Structures Technician gains experience, they should focus on expanding their skills and knowledge. This may involve attending additional training courses, workshops, or pursuing higher-level certifications in specialized areas like composite repair, advanced welding techniques, or specific aircraft models.
Lead Technician or Supervisor: With several years of experience, an Aircraft Structures Technician can progress to a lead technician or supervisor role. In this position, they oversee and coordinate the work of other technicians, ensure quality control, and manage maintenance projects.
Specialization: Aircraft Structures Technicians have the opportunity to specialize in specific aircraft types, such as commercial airliners, military aircraft, helicopters, or business jets. Specializing in a particular area can lead to higher demand and career advancement opportunities.
Inspector or Quality Assurance: Experienced technicians may transition into roles as aircraft inspectors or quality assurance personnel. These positions involve conducting thorough inspections, verifying compliance with regulations, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and maintenance.
Maintenance Management: Advancing further in the career, an Aircraft Structures Technician may move into maintenance management roles. These positions involve overseeing the maintenance operations of an aviation organization, coordinating teams, and managing maintenance budgets.
Engineering or Design Roles: Some Aircraft Structures Technicians with strong technical backgrounds and further education may explore opportunities in aircraft engineering or design roles. These positions involve contributing to aircraft design, modifications, or structural analysis.
Aircraft Manufacturers or Airlines: Experienced technicians may find opportunities to work directly for aircraft manufacturers or major airlines in their maintenance divisions. These positions offer exposure to the latest technology, specialized training, and potential career growth within the organization.
Consulting or Training: With a wealth of experience and expertise, some Aircraft Structures Technicians may choose to become consultants, providing their knowledge to various aviation organizations, or they may transition into teaching roles to train the next generation of technicians.

Getting started in a career as an aircraft structures technician

Getting started in a career as an Aircraft Structures Technician involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here are the steps to help you begin your journey:

Educational Requirements:

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. A strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and mechanical skills is beneficial for this career.

Research and Self-Assessment:

Research the role of an Aircraft Structures Technician to understand the responsibilities, demands, and opportunities in the field. Assess whether this career aligns with your interests and strengths.

Enroll in an Aviation Maintenance Program:

Look for FAA-approved or other recognized aviation maintenance programs that offer specific training in aircraft structures. These programs can be found at technical schools, community colleges, or specialized aviation training centers.

Complete Aircraft Structures Training:

Focus on programs that provide hands-on training and cover topics such as sheet metal repair, composite materials, welding, riveting, and structural inspections. Completing such programs will lay a strong foundation for your career.

Apprenticeships or Internships:

Seek opportunities for apprenticeships or internships with maintenance repair organizations, aircraft manufacturers, or airlines. These experiences offer valuable on-the-job training and exposure to real-world maintenance scenarios.

Certification and Licensing:

Obtain the necessary certifications and licenses required by your country’s aviation regulatory authority. In the United States, for example, you will need an Airframe Mechanic Certificate issued by the FAA.

Gain Practical Experience:

Work in entry-level positions or as an assistant to experienced Aircraft Structures Technicians to gain practical experience. This experience will be crucial for your career advancement.

Continuing Education and Specialization:

Consider pursuing additional training or certifications in specialized areas such as composite repair or working with specific aircraft types. Continuous learning will enhance your expertise and make you more competitive in the job market.

Build a Strong Resume:

Create a well-structured resume highlighting your education, certifications, practical experience, and any specialized training you’ve undertaken.

Job Search and Networking:

Look for job openings in aviation maintenance companies, airlines, or aircraft manufacturers. Attend aviation industry events and network with professionals to increase your chances of finding job opportunities.

Interview Preparation:

Prepare for job interviews by researching the companies you’re applying to and practicing common interview questions. Demonstrate your technical knowledge and passion for the field during the interviews.

Start Your Career and Continue to Grow:

Once you secure a position as an Aircraft Structures Technician, be committed to continuous improvement. Work diligently, be proactive, and seek opportunities to take on new challenges to advance in your career.

Remember that a career as an Aircraft Structures Technician requires attention to detail, commitment to safety, and a passion for aircraft maintenance. The aviation industry values skilled technicians, and with the right training and determination, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in this field.

Jobs for Aircraft Structures Technicians in Canada

For an up to date list of our current openings, including all of our open jobs for aircraft structures technicians across Canada, check our aerospace careers portal our contact one of our aerospace recruitment consultants.

At Saxon Aerospace, we have decades of experience in the aviation industry, helping match skilled aircraft structures technicians with exciting companies throughout Canada.

If you’re an aviation company and you’re looking for talented Aircraft Structures Technicians or other key roles, Saxon Aerospace are a specialist aerospace staffing agency with a wealth of experience finding, screening and attracting the highest caliber of candidates.