Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Inspection and repair of aircraft structures, powerplants, fuel systems, hydraulics, and landing gear directly overlap with civilian aircraft maintenance.
How to prepare: Gather military maintenance experience records for FAA review if pursuing A&P certification, which air carriers often require for hiring but is not required for every airline mechanic job. FAA eligibility requires age 18 or older, English proficiency, and 18 months of appropriate experience for one rating or 30 months concurrently covering both ratings, or an eligible FAA-approved school or military certification course route, followed by knowledge, oral, and practical tests.
What the civilian work involves
- Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
- Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.
- Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.