Marine Corps MOS · Aviation
6257 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Airframe Mechanic, F/A-18
Overview
An F/A-18 fixed-wing aircraft airframe mechanic inspects, services, maintains, and repairs aircraft airframe structures and composite materials. These mechanics also work on hydraulic, pneumatic, and landing gear systems.
Core Skills
- Aircraft structures and airframe maintenance
- Hydraulic and pneumatic systems troubleshooting
- Landing gear systems maintenance
- Composite materials repair
- Technical schematic and drawing interpretation
- Preventive and corrective maintenance
- Use of precision measurement tools
- Technical documentation and maintenance records
- Tool control and FOD prevention
- Quality and safety compliance
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
- Access Software AIRPAX
Civilian Career Paths
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Mechanical Engineering
- Project Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
Career Growth
- ASNT NDT Level II Certification
- Aviation Mechanic certificate with an Airframe rating
Also Common
- ASNT NDT Level II
What the Work Involves
- Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
- Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
- Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
- 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.
Related Occupations
- Avionics Technicians
- Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
- Aircraft Service Attendants
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 6257. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
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Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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