AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN JOB DESCRIPTION
Each Aircraft Maintenance Technician job description in this roundup details inspection authority, airframe and powerplant repair, avionics systems, fleet recordkeeping, and FAA regulatory requirements.

Aircraft Maintenance Technician Job Description Template
1. About the Role
An airframe that cannot be signed off on does not fly. When an Aircraft Maintenance Technician position goes unfilled or underperforms, aircraft sit grounded, schedules slip, and operators face FAA enforcement exposure that no amount of downstream effort can recover. This role owns the inspection, repair, and airworthiness sign-off functions that keep FAR Parts 91 and 135 flight operations continuously legal and airworthy. Sitting within a maintenance department that answers directly to regulatory scrutiny, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician is the person whose name appears on the work order and whose judgment determines whether the aircraft is released.
2. Position Summary
As the Aircraft Maintenance Technician, you will perform FAA-compliant inspections, maintenance, and documentation on corporate and regional aircraft, holding the Airframe and Powerplant certificate that legally authorizes each airworthiness release. You operate within a maintenance department structured around FAR Part 91 or Part 135 compliance, coordinating daily with the Chief of Maintenance or Director of Maintenance and interfacing with flight crews on aircraft status.
3. Why Join Us
Career Impact: Holding an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate and accumulating documented line maintenance hours on corporate and regional fleets is the credential set that commands premium placement across the general aviation and air cargo markets.
Business Impact: Every aircraft an operator dispatches traces back to an A&P technician's sign-off; without that authorized release, no revenue flight departs, and no charter obligation is met.
Growth Opportunity: Technicians who deepen turbine-engine experience and pursue FAA Inspection Authorization open a direct path to Lead Technician, Director of Maintenance, and Part 145 Repair Station supervisory roles.
4. Key Responsibilities
- Inspect aircraft airframes, engines, landing gear, hydraulic systems, and avionics to confirm airworthiness before and after each maintenance event.
- Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance in accordance with manufacturer's manuals, FAA Airworthiness Directives, and applicable FARs.
- Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic discrepancies using technical manuals and test equipment to identify root causes.
- Document all maintenance actions, component removals, and corrective findings in aircraft logbooks and company maintenance data systems.
- Review aircraft maintenance records to determine whether required inspections and overhauls fall within prescribed intervals before each release.
- Sign for the accomplishment of all work on applicable forms and execute Airworthiness Releases in compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Coordinate with the Chief of Maintenance or senior technicians to prioritize incoming discrepancies and plan corrective action within operational timelines.
- Maintain parts inventory, including ordering, core returns, and tagging of all removed components in accordance with policy.
5. Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology or a related technical field, or equivalent work experience.
- 3 or more years of maintenance experience on corporate, regional, or similar aircraft, with demonstrated line maintenance proficiency.
- Current FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate meeting recency requirements under 14 CFR Part 65.
- Working knowledge of FAR Part 91 and Part 135 maintenance requirements, Airworthiness Directives, and applicable manufacturer service bulletins.
- Ability to read, interpret, and apply aircraft maintenance manuals, schematics, engineering orders, and illustrated parts catalogues.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills sufficient to document maintenance actions accurately and brief aircraft status to flight crews.
- Possession of a complete set of basic line maintenance hand tools is required for daily task performance.
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory motor vehicle record, and the ability to pass a background check and DOT drug screening.
6. Preferred Qualifications
- FAA Inspection Authorization or documented progress toward IA qualification, indicating readiness for independent return-to-service authority.
- Previous experience on turbine-powered aircraft, including documented training on specific airframe or engine types in the operator's fleet.
- Familiarity with electronic maintenance tracking systems and digital logbook entry processes used in Part 135 operations.
- Experience supporting structural modification, sheet metal repair, or avionics integration projects within a certificated maintenance environment.
7. Success Metrics & Environment
- Aircraft dispatch release rate, reflecting the percentage of assigned aircraft cleared without repeat squawks within 30 days.
- Logbook entry accuracy rate, measured by the frequency of documentation errors flagged during internal or FAA audits.
- Mean time to close open maintenance discrepancies, tracking efficiency from write-up to signed release.
- Repeat squawk rate per tail number, indicating first-time fix quality on inspected and repaired systems.
- Parts order fulfillment cycle time, measuring turnaround from identified need to serviceable component available for installation.
- Typical tools: maintenance data systems (commonly CAMP or ATP); aircraft diagnostic equipment (commonly turbine engine analyzers and avionics test sets).
8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)
- Base Salary Range: $62,000 to $95,000 annually, depending on experience and fleet type
- Bonus: Annual performance bonus of 3% to 8% of base salary, where offered
- Equity: Equity is not typical at this level; offered selectively at corporate flight departments
- Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution varies by operator size
- PTO: 10 to 18 days annually, plus federal holidays; shift-differential pay is common
- Common Perks: Tool allowance or reimbursement, uniform provision, recurrent training sponsorship, and travel pay for ferry assignments
Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.
9. EEO & Legal
Employment is contingent on successful completion of a background investigation and, for safety-sensitive positions, a DOT-mandated drug and alcohol screening. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process are encouraged to request one. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician Job Description Examples
1. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Corporate & Regional Aviation)
The Aircraft Maintenance Technician owns the full maintenance cycle for Martinaire, Inc.'s growing fleet, performing FAA-compliant inspections, repairs, and documentation on aircraft engines, components, and avionics systems. Reporting to maintenance leadership and interfacing across multiple organizational disciplines, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician ensures exceptional aircraft readiness to sustain safe, uninterrupted flight operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain aircraft, engines, components, and avionics systems in accordance with FAA specifications and established procedures.
- Inspect aircraft and components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, tires, and engines, for damage, defects, corrosion, or wear to ensure airworthiness.
- Perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components.
- Install, remove, or modify aircraft structures, systems, or components following drawings, schematics, charts, engineering orders, and technical publications.
- Repair worn, defective, or damaged parts or components using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.
- Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance adheres to standards and procedures and that aircraft are ready for operation.
- Interpret discrepancies or logs to understand the history and nature of issues, troubleshoot problems, and identify required next steps.
- Research, read, and interpret technical manuals and guidelines to perform inspections, installations, repairs, and other work activities.
- Review maintenance records to determine whether service and maintenance checks, repairs, and overhauls were performed at prescribed intervals.
- Maintain repair logs documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance activities.
- Recommend replacement, repair, or modification of aircraft equipment based on inspection findings.
- Report issues, malfunctions, unusual wear, or damage to appropriate personnel as required.
- Serve as a technical expert or mentor by providing advice and corrective recommendations to others.
- Maintain the parts store, including parts ordering, core returns, and inventory management.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate meeting recency requirements as specified in 14 CFR 65.83 is required.
- Minimum of three years of maintenance experience on corporate or similar aircraft required.
- Ability to pass an extensive background check and DOT Safety Sensitive Position drug test required.
- Ability to read and write English at a level sufficient to comprehend and apply information in technical manuals is required.
- Basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic disciplines as they apply to aircraft systems.
- Experience with structural modification and sheet metal projects preferred.
- Experience with experimental aircraft development and R&D operations preferred.
- Previous line maintenance experience on Pratt and Whitney Canada PT6A small series engines with documented training preferred.
- Previous maintenance experience on Cessna Caravan C208B with documented training preferred.
- Possession of own basic line maintenance tooling required.
- Ability to communicate aircraft maintenance status changes clearly and effectively in writing and verbally.
- Ability to interface across multiple organizational disciplines, levels, and departments.
2. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Part 135 Flight Operations)
Embedded within Thrive Aviation's maintenance operation, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician delivers consistent, regulation-compliant upkeep of airframes, power plants, and communication and navigation equipment to meet the organization's quality and safety expectations. Working closely with Ground Operation Technicians and maintenance leadership, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician sustains the reliability of fleet aircraft, which is central to the success of the operation.
Core Functions
- Perform work outlined on applicable work forms in accordance with established policies and procedures, manufacturer's manuals, and FAA requirements.
- Overhaul, maintain, and repair airframe components, power plants, and aircraft communication and navigation equipment in accordance with applicable manuals, bulletins, and orders.
- Perform pre- and post-flight inspections and clear any discrepancies found during an inspection.
- Ensure that the appropriate tag is attached to all parts removed from an aircraft in accordance with policy.
- Maintain constant alertness for defective, worn, or failed parts and unsafe working conditions.
- Execute Airworthiness Releases properly.
- Sign for the accomplishment of work on applicable work forms and records.
- Keep the work area clean, safe, and orderly, including airport ramps and hangar areas.
- Process all necessary paperwork as mandated by regulation.
- Carry out assigned work expeditiously, exercising sound judgment on each work project.
- Provide support to Ground Operation Technicians.
Qualifications & Experience
- College degree with applicable focus preferred.
- Previous experience as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician with working knowledge and practical experience on fleet aircraft is highly desirable.
- Expert-level knowledge of 14 CFR Part 135 maintenance requirements and regulations.
- Advanced knowledge of aircraft common and special tools, test equipment, technical orders, job guides, publications, schematic diagrams, drawings, charts, aircraft engines, landing gear, and flight control systems.
- Working knowledge of OSHA requirements and safe working techniques and procedures.
- In-depth knowledge of flight line operations, aircraft and vehicle movement, and associated safety hazards.
- Highly organized with acute attention to detail and strong project and time management skills.
- Expert-level verbal, written, and computer skills.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively under pressure as part of a team.
3. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Utility Helicopter Operations)
Reporting to Aircraft Operations leadership at Southern California Edison, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician shapes the inspection, maintenance, and repair program for company helicopters on pre-flight, periodic, and planned schedules. Partnering with field crews and dispatch personnel, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician enables safe and continuous energy-sector flight operations that support carbon reduction goals and reliable power delivery.
Primary Duties
- Inspect, maintain, and repair company aircraft on a pre-flight, periodic, and planned basis.
- Disassemble and reassemble airframe, turbine engines, and other components on a planned maintenance schedule or to determine the cause of malfunction, and overhaul, repair, or replace parts as required to maintain airworthy condition.
- Use electronic vibration equipment to troubleshoot, track, and dynamically balance airframe and engine components.
- Install special accessories and attachments for cargo handling, transportation of equipment, and external loads.
- Inspect and repair aircraft during field operations, controlling the landing zone and advising field crews on work methods and safety procedures for material handling and take-off and landing.
- Guide helicopters using hand signals or radio communications as required.
- Reposition fuel vehicles and support aircraft as required during field operations and at home base.
- Provide information and recommendations related to the safety and airworthiness of aircraft for dispatch and landing.
- Ensure helicopter and landing zone compliance with established safety requirements.
- Purchase and receive inventory supplies from vendors, document removal of items from inventory, and ensure replacements are ordered.
Skills & Qualifications
- High school diploma required.
- Current FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate per CFR Title 14 Part 65 required.
- Five or more years of experience working on turbine-powered helicopters required.
- Experience with maintenance and repair of Airbus Helicopters models AS350 and EC135, and Bell Helicopter models 205, 212, 412, and 429 preferred.
- Experience using radio and hand signals as related to helicopter operations preferred.
- Previous experience with purchasing, receiving, and maintaining inventory and supplies related to aircraft operations preferred.
- Previous experience fueling aircraft, including hot refueling, preferred.
- Ability to solve technical and operational problems with an exacting margin of safety.
- Ability to adapt to changing work conditions with little or no warning.
4. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (General Aviation Repair Station)
Sitting at the intersection of technical aircraft repair and repair station quality compliance, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician leads scheduled inspections, engine replacements, and troubleshooting on general aviation aircraft while supporting the training and development of new technicians. Operating across airframe, engine, and documentation functions, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician enables a safe, regulation-aligned maintenance environment that advances new employee proficiency and operational readiness.
Duties
- Inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft and components, including engines, wings, fuselage, tail, landing gear, control cables, propellers, and fuel systems.
- Consult aircraft maintenance manuals and manufacturer's manuals for specifications to determine the extent of repair or part replacement.
- Troubleshot airframe and engine issues for defects and corrected problems according to the manufacturer's maintenance manual specifications.
- Perform scheduled inspections on general aviation aircraft and execute engine replacements.
- Taxi and tug aircraft as required.
- Adhere to safety policies, including wearing proper PPE and reporting safety-related incidents.
- Comply with repair station quality standards and complete all required documentation in accordance with Repair Station Manuals and Processes.
- Support the training and development of new employees and other technicians.
Requirements
- High school diploma required.
- A&P certificate required.
- Two to five years of general aviation experience required.
- Must be proficient in RMS with a history of proper use, including clocking in and out, ATA codes, and sign-offs.
- Garmin experience preferred.
- Full set of tools required.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- An analytical mindset with the ability to multitask and adapt to a changing work environment.
5. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Aero Engine Overhaul)
A key member of the aero engine maintenance team, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician delivers high-quality engine strip, detailed inspection, assembly, and preventive and corrective maintenance in accordance with OEM documentation and airworthiness requirements. Collaborating across technical and operational functions, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician supports team goals that keep engine overhaul services compliant with regional safety regulations and continuously improve.
Functions
- Perform troubleshooting and regular system inspections for aero engine maintenance.
- Maintain systems and equipment in accordance with OEM documentation and airworthiness requirements, ensuring compliance with regional safety regulations.
- Use gauges and diagnostic tests to detect malfunctions.
- Repair or replace broken parts using power and hand tools.
- Record job progress and maintenance worksheets accurately.
- Analyze technical procedures and schematic engineering to identify and act on opportunities for improvement.
- Achieve team goals and deliver high-quality service.
Experience & Qualifications
- An academic background in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline is required.
- Two or more years of experience in aero engine maintenance required.
- Comprehensive engine overhaul knowledge and experience are highly desirable.
- Demonstrable knowledge of engine strip, detailed inspection, and assembly.
- Solid experience in preventive and corrective maintenance within airworthiness rules and regulatory requirements.
- Hands-on experience with both manual and automated tools and equipment.
- High level of accuracy with the ability to read and interpret technical manuals.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills with a willingness to learn.
6. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Transport Canada Licensed)
Safe and airworthy company aircraft depend on the Aircraft Maintenance Technician, who carries out all scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance under the guidance of licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and in line with Transport Canada standards. Based within a shift-based team environment, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician builds toward an M2 license designation while sustaining the condition of tools, equipment, and workspaces that keep flight operations running reliably.
Accountabilities
- Carry out all scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance as assigned by the Supervisor or Aircraft Duty Manager, under the guidance of licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.
- Carry out maintenance on company aircraft consistent with standards of airworthiness and quality requirements.
- Communicate the status of assigned aircraft to the Supervisor through the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer throughout each shift.
- Ensure the condition and safety of all tools and equipment.
- Maintain the general housekeeping of all workspaces.
Technical Qualifications
- Working towards an "M2" licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer designation.
- Successful completion of a Transport Canada-recognized aircraft maintenance program required.
- Eligibility to work in Canada required.
- Ability to pass security clearance and obtain the Transport Canada security card with a Driver Airside Permit required.
- Recognized aircraft maintenance program accreditation is considered an asset.
- Possession of a current security clearance is considered an asset.
- Availability to work nights, evenings, and days, including weekends and holidays, is required.
- Valid driver's license required.
7. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Commercial Jet Line Maintenance)
As the Aircraft Maintenance Technician, this role carries out FAA-compliant inspections, repairs, and documentation on FedEx aircraft, engines, and avionics systems while applying the highest standards of safety, situational awareness, and procedural compliance across every task. The line maintenance team relies on this work to sustain airworthy aircraft across a wide-body fleet that includes B777, B767, B757, and MD-11 aircraft in active commercial service.
Activities
- Inspect and maintain aircraft, including flight controls, empennage, landing gear, hydraulic, pneumatic, and avionic systems, tires, lavatories, and engines in accordance with FAA technical and safety standards.
- Repair worn, defective, or damaged parts or components, including brakes, tires, gaskets, lines, couplings, cables, and pulleys, using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.
- Identify parts and components that may require replacement within a given time frame as part of preventive maintenance.
- Perform troubleshooting of technical discrepancies using all available resources to identify root causes and required repairs.
- Carry out required aircraft engine test runs, including high-power runs, after obtaining the required classroom training.
- Read and fully understand technical documents, aircraft manuals, and departmental and safety manuals to perform required maintenance tasks, inspections, and checks.
- Review aircraft maintenance history and technical records to determine the next required checks or maintenance tasks.
- Perform aircraft pushbacks as a tug operator or headset operator.
- Report any abnormal wear or malfunction as required.
- Participate in aircraft-specific classroom training to obtain required certifications and share knowledge with Aircraft Maintenance Trainees.
Position Requirements
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant mechanic license required.
- Minimum of one year of maintenance experience on a jet aircraft required.
- Line maintenance experience on B777 and/or B767, B757, or MD-11 preferred.
- Commitment to teamwork, safety, flexibility, resilience, and continuous learning.
- Ability to handle workload peaks calmly and safely while remaining focused.
- Willingness to travel required.
8. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Corporate Aviation & Cybersecurity)
Aircraft Maintenance Technician leads complex inspection activities and troubleshooting for Adobe's corporate aircraft while serving as the aviation team's connectivity and cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert. The work directly supports uncompromising safety standards, maximum aircraft availability, and a just safety culture that reflects Adobe's brand values across all maintenance and administrative functions.
Operational Focus
- Complete required maintenance and lead complex inspection activities while maximizing aircraft availability with uncompromising safety standards.
- Troubleshoot systems to identify and rectify the source of reported problems.
- Follow manufacturer's requirements, Federal Aviation Regulations, and other regulatory requirements.
- Accompany aircraft to outside repair facilities and lead all aspects of maintenance when required.
- Support the aviation team by serving as the aircraft connectivity and cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert.
- Consult with the Director of Maintenance on all tasks when instructions are in question.
- Secure the necessary resources to complete assigned activities and complete administrative tasks in support of the maintenance function.
- Stay informed of business aircraft technology advances and industry best practices.
- Champion safety, standards, and sustainability throughout the organization.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Associate degree preferred, or equivalent experience as determined by the Director of Maintenance.
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant license required; FAA Inspection Authorization preferred.
- Six to eight years of experience as an Airframe and Powerplant Technician required.
- Advanced technical knowledge in aircraft systems and maintenance of corporate aircraft is required.
- Highly experienced in FAA FAR Part 91 operations.
- Well-developed troubleshooting skills with the capability of solving complex technical issues with limited supervision required.
- The capability of identifying and implementing process improvements.
- Strong project management and training skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite required.
- The ability to obtain an airport access badge with driving privileges and to travel to international destinations is required.
- Ability to collaborate and function effectively in a team environment.
9. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Commercial Airline Maintenance)
The Aircraft Maintenance Technician owns accurate, regulation-compliant inspection, servicing, and documentation of aircraft and components in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations, ensuring maintenance records and turnover logs reflect consistent quality across all tasks. Reporting within the Maintenance Department and collaborating with senior technicians, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician enables a clean, orderly, and continuously improving maintenance operation across Boeing, Airbus, McDonnell Douglas, and regional fleet types.
Key Deliverables
- Determine the airworthiness of aircraft and components in accordance with established procedures and Federal Aviation Regulations.
- Inspect, service, and maintain aircraft, components, and related equipment.
- Complete aircraft maintenance form entries and enter data into a Maintenance Data System accurately and completely.
- Ensure consistent, accurate aircraft maintenance by completing turnover entries on unfinished maintenance in the turnover log.
- Follow all Maintenance Department policies and procedures and keep a clean and orderly work environment.
- Make recommendations to improve functions within the Maintenance Department.
Professional Experience
- High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
- Valid FAA Airframe and Powerplant license required.
- Minimum of three years of aircraft maintenance experience, including experience on Boeing, Airbus, McDonnell Douglas, military jet, or regional and commuter aircraft, required.
- Knowledge of computer systems required.
- Troubleshooting skills and the ability to read and interpret aircraft manuals and illustrated parts catalogues are required.
- Valid driver's license required.
Editorial Process and Content Quality
This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.
Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.
Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.
Learn more about our editorial standards.