6287 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Safety Equipment Mechanic, F/A-18

Core Skills

• aircraft safety systems maintenance
• ejection seat and life support system servicing
• technical troubleshooting and fault isolation
• preventive and corrective maintenance
• use of test stands and diagnostic equipment
• technical data and wiring diagram interpretation
• maintenance documentation and records management
• quality assurance and safety compliance
• time-sensitive maintenance under operational tempo
• coordination with pilots and maintenance control

Civilian Career Paths

• Aircraft Maintenance
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering

Training & Development

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.

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.