What Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians do
The U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET database describes the work of Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians this way: "Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems."
The core tasks O*NET records for this occupation include: "Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components"; "Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation"; "Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance"; "Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations"; "Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems".
Education, experience and training
According to the BLS Employment Projections, the typical education needed to enter this occupation is postsecondary nondegree award.
Job outlook for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
The Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 140,000 jobs in this occupation in 2025 and projects 147,600 in 2035, an increase of 7,600 jobs (+5.4%). That is faster than the 3.5% projected for all occupations.
About 11,400 openings a year are projected on average, counting both new positions and positions vacated by workers who retire or switch occupations. Relative to today's employment that is 8.1% a year, against 10.3% for all occupations. BLS lists a national median annual wage of $79,870, compared with $50,980 for all occupations.
Where Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians earn the most
Published data currently covers Texas, where the employment-weighted average of local median wages is $87,390. More states are added as pages are published.
Occupations related to Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Other occupations in the same SOC minor group (49-3000) include Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists, Automotive Body and Related Repairers and Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics.
Frequently asked questions about Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
What is the national median wage for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
BLS lists a national median annual wage of $79,870.
What is the job outlook for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
BLS projects employment to grow by 5.4% between 2025 and 2035, compared with 3.5% for all occupations, with about 11,400 openings a year.
What education do Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians need?
The typical entry-level education is postsecondary nondegree award, according to BLS.