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Military Aircraft Engine Mechanics

Military Career

General Information

Description

Some aircraft mechanics in the Military work solely on the engines, or powerplants, of the aircraft. These mechanics troubleshoot and perform organizational, intermediate, and depot level maintenance on the engines and related components of the Military’s airplanes and helicopters. Aircraft engine mechanics must have specialized knowledge of the mechanical, electrical, and hydraulics principles applying to jet and turboprop engines.

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Work Environment

Aircraft engine mechanics work in aircraft hangars and machine shops located on air bases or aboard aircraft carriers. They may work outside on the airfield, or in climate-controlled shops and hangars.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Comparable Industries

  • Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Enlisted
    • Hands-on/specialized
    • High school diploma required

Military Workforce

Aircraft Engine Mechanics in the Military

67,318

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Salary

Average Salary

$60,933

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Post-secondary certificate 60%
  • Associate's degree 24%
  • High school 12%
  • Bachelor's degree 2%
  • Some college 0%
  • Master's degree 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%

Military training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Aircraft engine mechanics are offered advanced technical training that prepares them to maintain specific aircraft engines. Training content may include: Repair of hydraulic, fuel, and electrical systemsRepair of aluminum, steel, and fiberglass airframes and coveringsPrecision measurement and equipment calibrationEngine disassembly, inspection, and repairSoldering techniques

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Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership

Knowledge

  • Mechanical
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Customer and Personal Service

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